The UK is built on the shoulders of its veterans. Many of the freedoms we enjoy today wouldn’t exist without their service. At Veterans For Veterans (VFV), we understand this more than most, because we’ve actually been there. As a team of ex-military personnel, we truly know what it feels like to walk in your boots.
However, serving in the Armed Forces comes with real risks. From non-freezing cold injuries and hearing loss to spinal damage and PTSD, military service can leave lasting physical and psychological scars. What many don’t realise is that if you’ve suffered due to training, combat, or faulty equipment, you may be entitled to make a military claim.
While no amount of compensation can undo the damage, it can provide the essential building blocks to help rebuild your life.
At VFV, we firmly believe that veterans deserve better. If you’ve been injured as a result of your service, you might be surprised at the range of claims available. In this blog, we’ll break down some of the most common types of military claims and how they could apply to you.
Non-Freezing Cold Injury Claims
Non-freezing cold injury claims are among the most common military claims filed. Non-freezing cold injuries are usually caused by prolonged exposure to wet, cold environments without proper treatment. NFCI, commonly called trench foot, is especially common during field training but can also occur during field experience. Symptoms may include numbness, pain, and long-term tissue damage. Many veterans are unaware that they can claim if the proper protective kit or rest breaks weren’t provided.
Here at Veterans for Veterans, NFCI claims are one of our specialties, so if you think you have grounds for an NFCI claim you can pursue it with us.
Military Hearing Loss Claims
Military hearing loss claims are also amongst the most common armed forces claims, with around £72 million being paid out in compensation from 2012 to 2020. Consistent exposure to gunfire, explosions, and loud machinery without sufficient hearing protection can lead to permanent hearing damage or tinnitus. If you weren’t issued the appropriate equipment or trained properly, you may have grounds for a claim.
Military PTSD Claims
Mental health is extremely important, especially for veterans. This is why PTSD claims are one of the most important claims you can make.
Post-traumatic stress Disorder and other mental health conditions can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. If the MOD failed to provide adequate mental health support or exposed you to unnecessary psychological harm, compensation may be possible.
Military Training Accident Claims
Training exercises are not immune to injuries or incidents. In fact, training exercises are one of the most common places for an incident to occur. Injuries during training exercises – whether from parachuting, live-fire drills, or unsafe terrain – can result in a substantial claim. These claims often involve a failure to provide safe procedures, risk assessments, or appropriate supervision.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Claims
Traumatic brain injury, or TBI for short, can be a daunting and scary experience. TBIS can occur during combat, vehicle crashes, or falls and can have life-altering consequences. Whether mild or severe, any brain injury should be taken seriously, especially if it’s caused by negligence or poor safety measures. While receiving compensation won’t cure your issue, it can substantially help your quality of life.
Military Heat Injury Claims
Almost the polar opposite of non-freezing cold injuries, injuries resulting from heat exposure can also form the basis for a military claim. Excessive heat exposure during intense training sessions (especially with limited hydration or rest) can cause heatstroke or long-term kidney and organ damage.
Claims often arise from failure to follow safe training protocols. However, you can claim for pretty much any heat-related injury.
Military Spinal Injury Claims
Spinal injuries can occur in numerous scenarios, including in the military. Spinal injuries may result from heavy lifting, repetitive strain, or high-impact landings. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or long-term disability: conditions that demand fair compensation.
Inappropriate or Faulty Equipment Claims
Equipment plays a massive role in a member of the Armed Forces carrying out their duties. If that equipment is faulty or defective, there may be more dire consequences than military personnel being unable to perform their duties. Defective gear (such as boots, helmets, body armour, or weapons) can directly lead to injuries. If you were issued equipment that was substandard or not fit for purpose, the MOD may be liable for your injuries.
Military Amputation Claims
Military amputations are rare and extreme cases. However, they can still happen. Due to the severity of the incident, you can usually expect a rather lengthy claiming process, accompanied by a rather sizable payout.
Some of the most serious claims involve the loss of a limb, whether due to IEDS, machinery accidents, or medical negligence. These cases are deeply personal, and compensation can help support prosthetics, mobility aids, and long-term rehabilitation.
Medical Negligence Military Claims
Military personnel rely heavily on medical professionals both during and after service. Suppose you’ve suffered due to delayed diagnosis, surgical errors, incorrect treatment, or poor aftercare while under the care of military or Ministry of Defence medical services: you may be entitled to claim for medical negligence. These claims often involve complex timelines, but they are vital in securing the support you need to recover properly.
While these are some of the most common military claim types, they are by no means final, and there may be other circumstances where military personnel end up making claims. If you are a veteran (whether you are serving or have left the forces), and you think you may have a case relating to one of the above types of claims, then maybe we can help you out.
At Veterans For Veterans, we are here to help you every step of the claiming process. Our team members have all served previously, so we understand what it’s like to be in your shoes. We can help cut through the nonsense, break down the process, and streamline your overall experience. We can help increase the likelihood of making a successful claim and make the process much, much simpler and easier.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today for more information.