What Is the National Accident Bureau?
The National Accident Bureau (NAB) is a nonprofit organization that investigates serious workplace accidents, provides injury compensation, and promotes safety. While many states have their own workers' compensation systems, the NAB serves industries that fall under federal jurisdiction, such as federal contractors, military personnel, and certain aviation and maritime sectors.
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Who Is Eligible for NAB Workers' Compensation?
Eligibility depends on the type of employment and the nature of the injury:
- Federal Employees – Any injury sustained during the performance of official duties.
- Contractors on Federal Projects – Workers who are part of a federally funded contract and suffer an on‑the‑job injury.
- Military Personnel – Injuries sustained during deployment or training that are work‑related.
- Aviation and Maritime Workers – Employees of federally regulated airlines or shipping companies.
To qualify, the injury must be job‑related, and the worker must have been employed for at least 90 days before the incident.
Gathering the Necessary Documentation
Before filing, collect the following items:
- Incident report or police report
- Medical records, including hospital discharge summaries and treatment notes
- Photographs of the injury and work environment
- Witness statements or contact information
- Employment records (pay stubs, job description, hours worked)
- Any prior correspondence with your employer or insurance carrier
Filing the Claim: Step‑by‑Step Process
1. Report the Incident Promptly: Notify your supervisor and complete the employer's incident report within 24 hours.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Care: Obtain treatment from a qualified medical professional and keep all receipts.
3. Complete the NAB Claim Form: Download the form from the NAB website or request a paper copy. Fill it out accurately, attaching all supporting documents.
4. Submit the Claim: Send the completed form and attachments to the NAB claims office via certified mail or secure online portal.
5. Follow Up: Keep a copy of the submission receipt and maintain regular contact with the claims adjuster assigned to your case.
Timeline and Key Milestones
| Phase | Typical Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Filing | Within 30 days of injury | NAB acknowledges receipt and assigns an adjuster. |
| Investigation | 30–60 days | Adjuster reviews evidence, may request additional docs. |
| Decision | 60–90 days from filing | Approval, denial, or settlement offer issued. |
| Appeal (if needed) | Up to 30 days after decision | Submit appeal with supporting evidence. |
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Late Filing: Missing the 30‑day window can void the claim. Set a calendar reminder immediately after the injury.
- Incomplete Documentation: Inadequate medical records or missing witness statements can stall the process. Keep a checklist and double‑check before submission.
- Misunderstanding Eligibility: Some injuries, like those from personal causes, are not covered. Verify with your employer's HR department.
What Compensation Can You Expect?
NAB provides temporary and permanent disability benefits, medical cost coverage, and, in severe cases, death benefits to dependents. The exact amount depends on the severity of the injury and the worker's wage level. A typical temporary disability payout ranges from 60% to 75% of the worker's average weekly wage, capped by federal limits.
Resources and Next Steps
For more detailed guidance, consult the following:
- NAB Claim Form
- NAB FAQ
- Contact the NAB claims office at (800) 555‑0123 or email claims@nab.org