How Long Does a DBA Claim Take to Settle?
If youve been injured while working under the Defense Base Act (DBA), youre probably asking yourself: how long does a DBA claim take to settle? This is one of the most common questions we get at the Law Offices of RITE, and the answer isnt always straightforward.
DBA claims can vary greatly in length depending on multiple factors. In this blog, well explain what influences the timeline of your DBA claim and share how having the right legal help can make a difference.
What Is the Defense Base Act?
The Defense Base Act is a federal law that extends workers compensation protections to civilian employees working on U.S. military bases outside the United States or on government contracts related to national defense and public works.
This means that if youre injured during your employment under the DBA, youre entitled to benefits such as medical care, disability payments, and death benefits regardless of when or where the injury occurred during your job duties.
How Long Does a DBA Claim Take to Settle?
The reality is, theres no fixed timeframe for how long a DBA claim takes to settle. Some claims resolve quicklywithin a few weeks or monthswhile others can drag on for a year or more.
Several key factors affect the length of time it takes to resolve a DBA claim:
-
Severity and complexity of your injury
-
Disputes over whether the injury is work-related
-
Delays or denials by the insurance company
-
Whether your claim requires formal hearings or mediation
-
Availability of medical records, witness statements, and other evidence
Because DBA claims involve federal regulations and government oversight, the process can be more complex and slower than typical workers compensation claims.
Common Steps That Affect Claim Timing
-
Initial Filing and Medical Treatment
Your claim begins when you file paperwork and seek medical care. Prompt filing can help speed up processing. -
Insurance Company Review
The DBA insurance carrier will review your claim. Unfortunately, many carriers delay or deny claims to minimize payouts, which can slow things down. -
Requesting an Informal Conference
If the insurer isnt cooperating, your attorney can file an LS-7 form to schedule an informal conference with the Department of Labor. This usually leads to a recommendation to resolve the dispute. -
Formal Hearing
If disputes remain, your case may go before an administrative law judge through a formal hearing (requested by filing an LS-18 form). This step can take months to schedule and resolve. -
Post-Hearing Decisions and Mediation
After the hearing, the judges decision might take months to issue. Sometimes, claims settle during mediation while waiting for the final ruling.
Why Do DBA Claims Take So Long?
Insurance companies often fight DBA claims aggressively, resulting in delays and legal battles. In addition, the federal process itselfincluding conferences, hearings, and administrative reviewsadds time.
How Can an Attorney Help You Settle Your DBA Claim Faster?
While you cant control every aspect of the claim process, hiring an experienced DBA attorney can make a big difference:
-
Filing paperwork correctly and on time
-
Gathering medical evidence and witness statements
-
Requesting conferences and hearings when needed
-
Negotiating with insurers and pushing for settlements
-
Representing you throughout the complex federal claim process
At the Law Offices of RIE, we specialize in DBA claims and understand how to navigate this unique system efficiently. Our team has successfully helped many clients in North Florida get the compensation they deserveoften much faster than going it alone.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does a DBA claim take? It depends, but with the right legal support, you can avoid unnecessary delays and increase your chances of a fair, timely settlement.
If youre dealing with a DBA claim, dont wait. Contact the Law Offices of RIE today for a free consultation. Were ready to fight for your rights and help you get the benefits you deserve as quickly as possible.
