At Phillips & McCrea, PLLC, we understand how confusing and overwhelming it can feel to navigate a Defense Base Act claim. Contractors in North Carolina who work overseas on government contracts often face unique risks and challenges. When injuries occur, the process of securing benefits under the Defense Base Act can seem daunting. We are here to guide you through every step of the process with compassion and dedication to your well-being. Our firm is committed to helping you secure the compensation and benefits you deserve, easing the stress of your situation, and focusing on achieving a successful resolution for your case.
What is the Defense Base Act
The Defense Base Act is a federal law that provides workers’ compensation benefits to civilian contractors working overseas on government contracts. These contracts often involve construction projects, military base support, or public works funded by the U.S. government. If you are injured while performing your duties under a covered contract, the Defense Base Act ensures that you have access to financial assistance, medical care, and disability benefits.
Understanding the law’s scope is crucial for North Carolina contractors working abroad. The Act covers injuries that occur during work-related activities, even if they happen outside normal working hours. For example, if you were traveling for work or attending an event required by your employer and suffered an injury, you might still qualify for benefits. The law’s protections extend to physical injuries, illnesses caused by working conditions, and even mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder.
Common Challenges in Defense Base Act Claims
Navigating a Defense Base Act claim can be difficult for contractors who are unfamiliar with the process. Many individuals face challenges such as understanding the paperwork, proving that the injury occurred in the scope of their employment, and dealing with employers or insurance companies who may dispute their claims. These difficulties can leave injured contractors feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
Another significant challenge involves dealing with injuries that develop over time, such as repetitive stress injuries or occupational illnesses. Unlike immediate injuries, these conditions require detailed medical records and evidence to show a connection to your work. For mental health conditions, such as trauma resulting from working in a war zone, the process can become even more complex. Knowing how to approach these issues is essential to ensuring that you receive the benefits you need to recover and move forward.
Attorney Attorney Attorney
Michael Phillips
Marcel McCrea
Natalie Andruczyk
Benefits Available Under the Defense Base Act
The Defense Base Act provides essential benefits for injured contractors and their families. These benefits include payment for medical treatment, compensation for lost wages due to temporary or permanent disabilities, and death benefits for families of workers who lose their lives on the job. The law ensures that injured workers can access the care and support they need, regardless of where the injury occurred.
If you are temporarily unable to work because of an injury, you may receive compensation for lost wages based on your average earnings before the injury. For those with long-term or permanent disabilities, the Defense Base Act provides additional compensation to address the lasting impact of your condition. In cases of severe injury or death, the Act also offers support to dependents, helping families manage the financial burden during a difficult time.
How Phillips & McCrea, PLLC Can Help
Our firm has a deep understanding of how overwhelming it can be to pursue a Defense Base Act claim. At Phillips & McCrea, PLLC, we take the time to listen to your story and provide clear, straightforward guidance tailored to your specific needs. From the initial filing of your claim to negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action, we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.
We understand that every case is unique, and we take pride in building strong relationships with our clients to develop the best approach for their circumstances. Whether you are dealing with disputes about your injury’s connection to your work or facing delays in receiving benefits, our team is prepared to address these challenges and fight for your rights.
Michael was a pleasure to work with. He made sure all of my questions were answered in a timely manner. His compassion to help allowed me to receive excellence throughout my experience, i would highly recommend his expertise” - Anonymous Philips and McCrea Law firm provided excellent service to entire family and friends. There have been several situations that I/family /friends have depended on their legal service’s. On each occasion they have been professional, knowledgeable and dependable. Providing excellent representation and guidance under stressful situations. I would highly recommend their legal service." - Denise Simply great legal service. They were professional, easy to work with and thorough. I have been very pleased with their service and would highly recommend them to my friends and colleagues as exceptional Charlotte attorneys." - Logan Abrams 
Steps to Take After an Injury
If you have been injured while working overseas under a government contract, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case. Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible and seek medical attention to document the extent of your condition. Keep detailed records of any treatments, diagnoses, and communications related to your injury.
Filing a Defense Base Act claim requires careful attention to detail. Missing deadlines or failing to provide necessary documentation can result in delays or denials. If you are unsure of how to proceed, seeking legal guidance can help you navigate the process and avoid common pitfalls.
The Importance of Timely Action
Acting quickly after an injury is crucial to protecting your rights under the Defense Base Act. North Carolina contractors working overseas may face challenges due to the distance and logistical issues involved in reporting and documenting their claims. The longer you wait to take action, the harder it may become to gather evidence or address disputes from employers or insurance companies.
Filing your claim promptly and working with experienced legal representation can help ensure that your case progresses smoothly. Timely action can also prevent unnecessary delays in receiving benefits, allowing you to focus on your recovery without additional stress.
Why Legal Representation Matters
When pursuing a Defense Base Act claim, having strong legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Employers and insurance companies often have resources to challenge claims, and navigating the process without guidance can be overwhelming. A skilled legal advocate can help level the playing field, ensuring that your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
At Phillips & McCrea, PLLC, we are committed to helping North Carolina contractors achieve successful outcomes in their Defense Base Act cases. Our firm understands the unique challenges you face and works tirelessly to provide the support and representation you need.
If you or a loved one has been injured while working overseas under a government contract, Phillips & McCrea, PLLC is here to help. We understand the emotional and financial toll that a work-related injury can take, and we are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process with care and determination. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the benefits and compensation you deserve, giving you the peace of mind to focus on your recovery.
Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the Defense Base Act and secure the support you need to move forward with confidence.