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Can I Be Compensated for PTSD Under the Defense Base Act?

To begin, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is covered under the Defense Base Act. You will need to follow the same process you follow for a physical injury, such as a broken leg, in order to receive compensation. The difference is that since PTSD is a psychological injury instead of a physical one, it can be more difficult to prove since the injury may not be as obvious as the aforementioned broken leg. 


This article will discuss compensation for PTSD under the Defense Base Act. After reading this article you will understand how a Defense Base Act claim law firm in Jacksonville will be able to help you succeed in getting the compensation you deserve for your work-related PTSD.


If, after reading this article, you have more questions about your own circumstances, then the Defense Base Act claim attorneys in Jacksonville at RITE Law are here to help. At RITE Law, we have a group of Defense Base Act claim attorneys in Jacksonville who have your best interests at heart, and who have the training and resources to make sure that you receive the compensation you deserve. 


Our number is (904) 500-RITE or you can fill out our contact form online. We provide a free case evaluation , so call today.


1. What is PTSD?


Since the Defense Base Act covers military contractors, it is no surprise that civilians that work on or around military bases are subject to many of the same traumatic events and stressors as military personnel. Civilians stationed in war zones will see the same fighting, injuries, and trauma all around them. Consequently, PTSD is not uncommon in private civilian contractors.   


Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is defined as: 


A condition of persistent mental and emotional stress occurring as a result of injury or severe psychological shock, typically involving disturbance of sleep and constant vivid recall of the experience, with dulled responses to others and the outside world.


PTSD, as defined, is broad and can lead to physical issues as well. Nightmares, flashbacks, and loss of sleep can all stem from PTSD. Lack of sleep can lead to physical and emotional issues such as brain fog, confusion, loss of reflexes, headaches, etc. Someone experiencing PTSD may see the traumatic events over and over in their mind, and lose the ability to interact or communicate with the people in their lives. 


PTSD can show itself in varying ways. It is important to speak to a medical professional about any symptoms, and to get the help you need. Part of that help will include getting compensation for your injuries, and a Defense Base Act claim law firm Jacksonville should be on your list of people to turn to for help.


2. PTSD Injuries Can Take Longer to Recognize.


Unlike a broken leg, PTSD injuries can happen over time and can take longer to rise to the surface. Sometimes PTSD can appear as physical issues that are in actuality PTSD related. In addition, some people believe there is a stigma with admitting they have any type of psychological issue, and therefore fail to report it or discuss it with anyone. Plus, military contractors with high security clearances are sometimes afraid to discuss PTSD and trauma, for fear of losing their security clearance that they need for their jobs.


However, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible , so you can start on the road to recovery. You also will need those treatment records to preserve and prove your Defense Base Act claim. If you think you may be experiencing PTSD symptoms, it is imperative you see a medical professional immediately. In addition, immediately contact a Defense Base Act claim law firm Jacksonville.


3. The Defense Base Act Provides Compensation for PTSD.


In order to get compensated for your work-related PTSD, you need medical proof. Fortunately, you have the right to choose your own doctor. You should be sure to report your PTSD to your employer. Your employer’s insurance company may try to persuade you to see a doctor they choose. But, you should pick your own doctor. One who you feel comfortable with, and who can document your PTSD diagnosis. 


Contact a Defense Base Act claim law firm in Jacksonville to help with the next steps in your claim. Because PTSD can take longer to appear than physical injuries, and because it isn’t visible, insurance companies generally feel comfortable denying those claims. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process from beginning to end in order to ensure all the best information is provided and to help you win your claim and get the compensation you deserve.


A Defense Base Act Claim Law Firm Jacksonville Will Help With Your PTSD Defense Base Act Claim.


At RITE Law, we started the firm for one reason – to help those in Florida and elsewhere have the resources of a firm that was “big enough to fight but small enough to care.” At Rudolph, Israel, Tucker & Ellis (RITE law), we have the resources and experience to go to trial when it is necessary, and we have the wisdom to advise you appropriately. 


Expect lots of attention, passionate representation, and a healthy disdain for big insurance companies. We believe that leads to the best result possible. Unlike larger firms, your case isn’t handed to a paralegal or assistant to do the heavy lifting. The attorney you meet initially is the one who will be by your side every step of the way. 


We also take pride in creating an atmosphere where every client is treated like family. Family members stick up for one another no matter what. You should expect nothing less from the RITE Law Defense Base Act attorneys in Jacksonville.


Without help from the RITE team, making your own Defense Base Act claims can be very difficult. When you turn to our firm, we spring into action, making sure that every detail of your claim is addressed. Call us for help. Our number is (904) 500-RITE or you can fill out our contact form online. We provide a free case evaluation , so feel free to call us today.


The information in this blog post is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. You should not make a decision whether or not to contact an attorney based upon the information in this blog post. No attorney-client relationship is formed nor should any such relationship be implied. If you require legal advice, please consult with an attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.

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