Skip to Content
Premier San Antonio Legal Representation 210-807-3178
Top
PTSD Claims

Take the First Step with The Law Offices of George P. Escobedo & Associates, PLLC. Call Our Firm at (210) 807-3178 to Schedule Your Free Consultation. Se habla español.

PTSD Claims Under the Defense Base Act

Defense Base Act Attorneys in Texas

Although more attention has been devoted in recent years to raising public awareness about PTSD among military service members, U.S. government contractors working overseas in warzones are often overlooked, despite the fact that overseas contractors must work in high-risk situations that can cause PTSD.

If you are a contractor who worked overseas in a warzone and you have PTSD, you need to consult with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to get help filing a Defense Base Act claim.

We can make sure you get the treatment you need for your condition, and our experienced lawyers will devise a strong legal strategy that will allow you to pursue the maximum amount of compensation you are entitled to.

What Is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health problem caused by environmental stress or a traumatic event that leaves a lasting psychological impact. The symptoms of PTSD are not always apparent, which means some people neglect or delay treatment without realizing the severity of their condition.

Contractors working in military zones are confronted with many life-threatening situations, from roadside bombs to kidnappings. The following are some of the symptoms of PTSD:

  • Nightmares or flashbacks of the traumatic event
  • Avoiding things that trigger traumatic memories, such as crowds, driving, and loud noises
  • Avoiding talking about the traumatic event
  • Depression
  • Anxiety and panic attacks
  • Inability to relax
  • Hypervigilance

It’s estimated that about 25 million Americans suffer from the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at any given time, or about 8% of the total population. These percentages are much higher in the military, however — and because civilian contractors now make up about half of the U.S. military force around the world, more and more of them are reporting symptoms of PTSD once they return home from service.

Aside from causing considerable suffering, untreated PTSD can lead to sleep disorders, depression, avoidance, and even suicide attempts. Thanks to the Defense Base Act, overseas contractors (civilian or otherwise) may be able to file a DBA claim and receive compensation for PTSD injuries. As more contractors are put at risk, it’s crucial that we examine the true toll of PTSD on these individuals – and ensure an easier path to recovery for those who have been affected.

The Toll of PTSD on Contractors

Post-traumatic stress disorder is common response to extreme trauma, whether due to experiencing violence and physical harm or watching someone else experience it second-hand. Not everyone will automatically develop PTSD after a traumatic event, but with constant exposure to combat, unpredictable living conditions, and isolation on the front lines, both civilians and active military members are at increased risk for this disorder.

The U.S. Department of Defense employs thousands of private and security defense contractors, even outnumbering the U.S. troops in many battle theaters, and those numbers have continued to increase over the last few decades.

As they have increased numbers, the numbers of PTSD victims have risen to match: A 2013 RAND study showed that more than 25% of all surveyed contractors could meet the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis.

Proving a PTSD Claim

PTSD claims can be difficult to prove, precisely because so many of the symptoms are emotional or psychological, and they can take months to surface. Even after a diagnosis, some contractors may not even be aware that they are eligible for DBA benefits. However, if you’ve developed PTSD during your time working overseas for the government, whether as a foreign national or as a citizen, you could indeed be able to file a claim and receive compensation.

By relying on expert medical testimony and thorough investigation, our qualified Defense Base Act lawyers in San Antonio can help you navigate a complex PTSD claim. Combining a decade of legal experience with a strong record of results, we can help affected overseas contractors seek out the funding they need to get treatment, and avoid the damaging effects of untreated PTSD.

File a Defense Base Act Claim Today

Our legal team at The Law Office of George P. Escobedo & Associates, PLLC is committed to helping clients throughout Texas resolve their legal matters. We have the extensive resources you need to prove your PTSD was caused during the course of your work as an overseas contractor. We have years of experience negotiating with insurance carriers, and we know which strategies produce the best results for our clients. Let us get to work for you today.

Call (210) 807-3178 to request a free consultation with a Defense Base Act attorney today. 

What Sets Us Apart?

  • Available 24/7
  • Spanish - Speaking Services
  • Over a Decade of Experience
  • Thousands of Successful Case Results
  • Free Case Evaluations
  • Committed & Passionate Advocacy
We Are Relentless & Dedicated To Protecting Our Clients' Rights