Have you suffered an injury during your service with the Armed Forces? Or maybe a relative has? The Ministry of Defence reported 18,386 health and safety incidents in 2021/22 alone so it’s important that you or your loved one receive the proper compensation.
There can be some confusion about what a military claim is and what injuries qualify for compensation. We’ve made a guide outlining the basics of military claims and the process of making one, so you can better understand what your next steps are.
What is a military claim?
A military claim is also known as a negligence or injury claim and refers to the legal process of making a claim against the Ministry of Defence for an illness or injury that occurred during or as a result of your service. This includes both physical and mental consequences, along with any injury incurred during training or pre-existing medical conditions made worse during service.
A military claim aims to receive appropriate compensation for any rehabilitation or medical care needed, which can come in the form of a lump sum or regular payments.
What can I claim?
You are entitled to receive compensation and make a claim for injuries sustained in training or serving with the Army, Navy or RAF, including the reserve forces. Some types of injuries you can claim for include spinal injury, limb loss, head and brain injury, sexual assault and PTSD.
These conditions may have been the result of military negligence. This can include scenarios in which sufficient training and equipment were not provided, personnel are ordered to take unnecessary risks, or appropriate medical care and treatment are not given.
Why should I pursue a claim?
The impact of your condition may have been short-term but if it has prevented you from working or leading a normal life then you should pursue a claim to alleviate some of the hardship you’ve experienced. The effects of any injury and disability can be devastating and the monetary compensation you receive can go a long way to help fund any rehabilitation you need in the future.
Your family could also be entitled to support, especially if they’ve been responsible for your care since your injury or illness.
Who do you need to contact?
To go forward with your claim, contact a military solicitor to get professional legal advice before you do anything else. Making a case against the Ministry of Defence can be daunting so it’s great to have an expert on your side. These professionals understand that the Armed Forces have a duty of care and have a strong understanding of how the forces deal with issues like medical treatment and training.
