Working overseas on U.S. government contracts, whether in construction, logistics, or maritime operations, comes with significant risks. The Defense Base Act (DBA) provides essential protections for civilian contractors injured while supporting American efforts abroad. From traumatic injuries to long-term psychological conditions like PTSD, the DBA ensures that eligible workers receive compensation for medical care, lost income, and disability. Experienced Defense Base Act lawyers can help eligible workers navigate the claims process, avoid delays, and fight for a fair settlement.
When injuries occur in maritime environments, such as on barges, docks, or while handling cargo, choosing a knowledgeable maritime law firm is even more important. These firms understand the intersection between DBA benefits and traditional maritime law, giving injured workers the best chance at securing the compensation they deserve.
What Is the Defense Base Act?
The Defense Base Act is a federal law that extends workers’ compensation protections to civilian contractors working on U.S. military bases or under U.S. government contracts outside the country. It’s part of the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act and applies to many maritime workers and longshoremen who support overseas operations.
Common beneficiaries of the DBA include contractors involved in:
- Military base construction or maintenance
- Maritime logistics or barge transport
- Security and defense operations
- Technical or IT support roles in war zones
“The Defense Base Act provides workers’ compensation protection to civilian employees working outside the United States on U.S. military bases or under contracts with the U.S. government.”
Who Qualifies for a DBA Claim?
You may qualify for a Defense Base Act claim if you were employed by a private contractor and were injured while:
- Working on a U.S. military base abroad
- Supporting a government-funded project outside the U.S.
- In transit to or from an overseas deployment
This includes maritime professionals such as fishermen, longshoremen, and barge workers working on military logistics or port contracts.
Injuries Covered Under the DBA
The DBA covers both physical injuries, like head trauma or spinal damage, and psychological injuries, such as PTSD from working in hostile environments. Even illnesses caused by overseas exposure (e.g., respiratory diseases) can be covered. Coverage also extends to aggravation of pre-existing conditions, hearing loss, injuries from vehicle accidents, and repetitive stress injuries sustained while performing job duties in hazardous or high-risk locations.
The DBA Claims Process
Filing a DBA claim is time-sensitive. If you believe you may qualify for filing such a claim, you should take the following steps immediately:
- Report the Injury: Notify your employer.
- File Form LS-201: This begins the formal claim process.
- Medical Evaluation: See a doctor for evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.
Delays or missing documentation can result in claim denials. That’s why working with a seasoned DBA lawyer is critical to your claim’s success.
Understanding Defense Base Act Settlements
Variables that can affect the amount of a DBA settlement include injury severity, lost wages, medical costs, and long-term disability. Additional factors include future medical needs, the impact on your ability to return to work, vocational rehabilitation costs, and whether the injury results in permanent total disability or only partial impairment.
Settlements are often negotiated between your attorney, the insurance company, and the Department of Labor. Following a settlement, a worker may receive a lump sum or ongoing payments.
Recent DBA Settlements
In recent cases, longshoremen with spinal injuries received settlements ranging from $200,000 to over $1 million, depending on permanency and work restrictions. PTSD settlements are also increasing due to growing awareness of mental trauma resulting from worked in a combat zone.
DBA PTSD Settlements
DBA PTSD claims are harder to prove than claims involving physical injuries, but can result in substantial compensation if supported by medical evidence and psychological evaluations. The key is linking the diagnosis to specific traumatic events encountered while on assignment.
Hiring the Best DBA Lawyer for Maritime Workers
Choosing the right lawyer can dramatically increase your compensation. Maritime and defense contractor law is highly specialized. Look for an attorney who:
- Has experience handling DBA settlements for maritime workers
- Knows the ins and outs of federal compensation systems
- Can aggressively negotiate with insurers and government agencies
The legal team at BoatLaw, LLP has handled complex DBA and maritime injury claims from Alaska to Florida. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. The information on this website is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Legal outcomes and laws can vary by jurisdiction, and only a qualified lawyer can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
Nicholas J. Neidzwski is a trial attorney who handles maritime and personal injury litigation. Appearing for plaintiffs in state and federal courts throughout Washington, California, Oregon, Alaska, and other jurisdictions. Nick’s litigation experience includes the successful resolution of various Jones Act, general maritime, and product liability cases on behalf of many different individuals. Nick was named a Rising Star annually by Super Lawyers from 2016 through 2025, and was named a Super Lawyer in 2026. Learn more here.
