The recent reports of a brain injury suffered by US military personnel after a missile strike in Iran are but only one example of the dangers faced in active warzones.
Unfortunately, these dangers are faced by civilians as well as military operatives. If you have been injured in the course of work carried out with the military, or on other public works contracts, and you are a civilian, you may be entitled to compensation under the Defense Base Act (DBA).
Read on as we look at five common injuries that a DBA lawyer can help you sue for.
1. Injuries from Falling
Falls can happen in countless ways on a military base, for both soldiers and civilians. Victims might fall downstairs or out of a bunk, or sustain injuries when running from enemy fire or another hazard.
Common issues arising here include broken bones and ligament damage.
2. IED Explosion Injuries
The use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is common in warzones. As they can be made from a wide variety of materials, they are popular among smaller terrorist or insurgent groups who do not have substantial resources or expertise.
Injuries resulting from these devices depend on the type of materials used and the extent of exposure of the victim. Organ damage, burns, and bone fractures are all possible.
3. Aggravation Injuries
An aggravation injury occurs where an existing injury is worsened by exposure to some new harm.
Some difficulties with verification may exist here. Where someone suffers a new injury, it is relatively simple to prove its cause. For example, when a fit man suffers a fall and emerges with a broken leg, there can be little doubt as to the reason for the injury.
With aggravation injuries, it can be difficult to show the extent to which the more recent event had an effect. However, the Defense Base Act is quite generous to victims here. Its rules state that if an accident worsens an existing injury at all, your employer is liable for the entire injury.
4. Psychological Injuries
Due to the harrowing nature of conflict, psychological conditions like anxiety and PTSD are common in those who have worked with the military.
Such conditions can be compensated under the Defense Base Act.
5. Injuries Sustained During Use of Machinery
There are several functions in conflict zones that require the use of machinery. As in any other context, this presents dangers and can result in injury.
If you have been hurt while welding, using an angle grinder or saw, or operating or repairing heavy machinery, you may be entitled to file a claim under the Defense Base Act.
Are You Going to Hire a DBA Lawyer?
If you’ve sustained one of the injuries mentioned above, it might be time to hire a DBA lawyer. While litigation can be a difficult process, you must get a just settlement for the harm you have suffered.
If you want to know more about these kinds of claims, or about any element of the law in this area, contact us today.