Injured Overseas? Learn About Your DBA Coverage

You’re eligible if you work for a U.S. government contractor overseas, whether on military bases, public works projects, or foreign assistance contracts. This coverage applies regardless of your nationality and includes both direct employees and subcontractors working on U.S. government-funded projects worldwide.

The DBA covers a wide range of injuries and illnesses that occur in the course of overseas employment. This includes not only traditional workplace accidents but also injuries that occur during off-duty hours under the “Zone of Special Danger” doctrine. Coverage extends to physical injuries, psychological trauma like PTSD, occupational diseases, and injuries that occur during reasonable recreational activities while stationed overseas.

Time is critical in DBA claims. You should notify your employer within 30 days of your injury or illness. You then have one year from the date of injury to file a formal claim. For occupational diseases or conditions that develop over time, you have two years from when you became aware that your condition was related to your employment to file a claim.

DBA benefits are comprehensive and include payment for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your injury or illness. You can receive compensation for lost wages, permanent disability benefits, and rehabilitation services. In cases of total disability, you may receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage. The Act also provides death benefits to surviving dependents if a worker dies due to a covered injury or illness.

Most DBA attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any upfront costs. Attorney fees are typically paid by the insurance carrier when your case is resolved successfully. This ensures that injured workers can get quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.