Injured Working at a US Embassy? Workers Compensation for Defense Contractors

Injured Working at a US Embassy? Workers Compensation for Defense Contractors

Jan 7, 2020 | Defense Base Act

There were 5,250 fatal work injuries reported in 2018!

Injury can happen at any time, you may know about workers’ compensation but if you work at a U.S. Embassy you may be wondering if you are eligible for it. The good news is that you qualify.

Your next question will probably be, “How do I go about claiming workers’ compensation?”

In order to make a successful claim, there are a few things that you will need to know. Here is your guide to understanding the workers’ compensation defense act.

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately

It may seem like the most logical thing to do when injured is to seek medical help. However, many people do not immediately seek medical attention unless the injury was extremely severe, do not make this mistake.

It is important to note that your medical records will be of importance when you make your claim. You do not have to get treated by a doctor that is assigned by the DBA Insurance Company or one that is recommended by your employer.

You have the right to choose your own doctor. Remember, that once you receive your treatment you will need to secure a copy of your medical record as this is necessary to prove your case.

2. You Can Get Compensated for Injuries Off the Job

In order to claim for your injury, you do not necessarily have to be on the job at the U.S. embassy at the time of the injury. If you are deployed in a war zone or are injured going about an everyday activity you can still claim workers’ compensation under the defense base act. Whenever an injury like this happens you should take notes and photographs of the incident so that you will have it as proof when you claim workers’ compensation. 

Quickly inform your supervisor of your injury because this will be an important factor in your claim.  It doesn’t matter how you contact your employer, you can send a text message, an email or a phone call just make sure that they are notified and that you keep a record of the communication. 

3. Salary Records and Witnesses are Important

Your injuries may render you unable to work for a while. Although your employer will be asked to submit wage records for you. It is important that you start gathering them on your own.

Witnesses are also very important to your case. If possible gather the phone numbers, addresses, and emails of those who witnessed your injury.

A Final Look at Workers’ Compensation Defense

Now you know that if you get injured while working inside the U.S. embassy or off duty you can get compensation. The key to ensuring that you get what you deserve is to report your injury and keep copies of all your reports.

Your workers’ compensation defense claim will be successful if you ensure that you do all these things. However, remember to seek medical help quickly when injured, since this will be critical to the success of your claim.

If you would like to know more about the workers’ compensation defense act, please contact us.