If you’re in need of assistance with any sort of legal claim, it’s critically important that you learn the area of law that you’re dealing with like the back of your hand. 

The Defense Base Act of 1941 (DBA) is a law created to make sure people working on government bases are covered for injuries they suffer in the line of work while overseas. The more you know about this law, the easier it is to address Defense Base Act claims so that you can get paid what you’re entitled to. 

These tips will help you when you’re filing a DBA claim and want to know how to address it correctly. 

Notify Superiors About the Incident

Notifying the higher-ups is the first and most important part of the DBA claims process that you need to follow. This puts your injuries on the record and allows the government the chance to handle the claim. 

The matter will be addressed by the correct personnel to push toward a settlement payout to help you with your injuries. It needs to be officially reported using a Form LS-201 from the United States Department of Labor (DOL). 

Understand the Defense Base Act and What it Covers

The DBA is a form of workers’ compensation that protects military personnel, government workers, and private workers who are staffed on military bases. In addition to military, government jobs, and private work conducted on military bases, volunteers and staff working with organizations like the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and United Service Organizations Inc. (USO) are also covered. 

Keep in mind that the process can be slow in these cases, taking months or even years to resolve. 

Get Help for Your Medical Injuries

Take the next important steps of addressing your injuries. Getting medical treatment will help you care for the injury while creating a running total for how much you are owed in damages. 

Examples of common injuries that people suffer in the line of work include:

• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Brain and cranium injuries
• Broken bones and sprains
• Lacerations and bruises
• Burns 

Keep records of every medical issue and other forms of documentation that you can use as evidence. In doing this, you’ll have a solid track record for your case and will be able to assist your lawyer in proving it. 

Hire an Attorney

Finally, work with a legal professional that can assist you with your DBA claims. Speak to a few different attorneys who have DBA cases as specialties, and get a professional consultation that lets you know your legal chances and how they will help. 

Your lawyer will also give you a list of fees and a contract that you can read through so you have an understanding of the agreement. 

Handle Your DBA Claim Needs

The points above are helpful when you’re dealing with a DBA claim of any kind. Consider these tips and take the correct steps so that your legal matters are handled correctly. 

Barns Law Firm handles DBA claims and other areas of law for clients all over South Texas. Use our web form to get in touch or call us at (713) 652-4002.