Defense Base Act and Longshore Cases

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) is a federal workers’ compensation law designed to protect individuals performing maritime activities.  The LHWCA provides income and medical benefits to individuals who work on the navigable waters of the United States and the adjoining areas to the navigable waters.  The term “navigable waters” has been interpreted to include water that is used for business or transportation.  Adjoining areas refers to any other adjoining wharf, dry dock, terminal, building way, marine railway, or any other adjoining areas customarily used by an employer in loading, unloading, repairing, dismantling, or building a vessel.  The Act provides benefits to individuals engaged in longshoring operation, including any harbor workers performing ship repairs, ship building, or ship breaking.

The Defense Base Act (DBA) is an extension of the LHWCA which was enacted in 1941 to protect civilian employees working overseas pursuant to a government contract.  The DBA is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor.  The DBA provides income and medical benefits to individuals who suffer injuries while in the course and scope of their employment.

Our firm has vast experience in handling claims for those injured on the job while working at the ports or working overseas while under contract.  We are here to help you navigate your claim through the claims process so that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.  Contact us for a FREE consultation.  Se Habla Español.