MOD Hearing loss Compensation Claim
Thousands of ex-servicemen and women are set to receive compensation for hearing loss sustained during their service, after a landmark court decision. This comes after the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has acknowledged that noise exposure in the military has caused hearing loss and that veterans discharged after 1987 could be eligible for compensation.
Background on Military Noise Exposure
Military personnel are regularly exposed to high decibel noises such as gunfire and explosions. Despite this, the MoD has previously disputed many claims, attributing hearing loss to other noise sources or arguing that claims were made too late, or that protection should have been worn.
Recent Developments
The MoD has recently accepted that exposure to military noise has led to hearing loss in many cases. Between 2012 and 2020, the MoD paid £72 million in compensation for military hearing loss, settling more than 9,000 cases. This new court agreement is expected to significantly increase the number of veterans receiving payments, with up to 10,000 current claimants.
Legal Perspective
Stephanie Pyle, from Versus Law Solicitors, is currently representing a number of ex-military personnel that have suffered from hearing loss and she anticipates a surge in claimants following this agreement. If you are a military veteran, who has had their careers cut short and your personal lives adversely affected with hearling loss then you deserve fair compensation. Make a military hearing loss claim.
Key Cases and Personal Stories
- JB: Awarded £150,000 for tinnitus and then total hearing loss. This case sets a precedent for the new scheme for ex-military to claim for hearing loss from the MOD.
- AB: A 40-year-old that served more recently in Afghanistan and has suffered from tinnitus was forced to leave the armed forces on medical grounds. His hearing loss has been less severe and he was awarded £25,000.
Military Hearing Protection and Expert Opinions
Hearing protection was introduced in the 1970s, but consistent use was impractical for soldiers. An expert acoustics engineer, highlighted the risk, noting that any firearm fired without ear protection can damage hearing.
Who is eligible to claim for military hearing loss?
The MOD has set a date as anyone that was discharged after 1987 and has suffered from hearing loss as a direct result of working in the armed forces has a claim. There are a number of cases going through trial which will determine how much ex-military that have suffered hearing loss can claim.
Compensation Schemes and Amounts
- Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS): Offers compensation for service-related injuries, including hearing loss.
- War Pensions Scheme: For veterans who served before 6 April 2005, with compensation based on disability levels.
- Personal Injury Claims: These can result in varying amounts depending on circumstances and legal outcomes.
How much can you claim from MOD for hearing loss?
- Minor hearing loss: Approximately £6,000 to £12,000.
- Severe cases: Payouts can exceed £100,000, reflecting the significant impact on the individual’s life.
This agreement signifies a pivotal shift in the recognition and compensation of service-related hearing loss, potentially offering much-needed support to thousands of veterans.
Your Path to Hearing Loss Compensation
At Versus Law Solicitors, we understand the profound impact that military hearing loss can have on your life. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through the claims process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait to secure your future. Fill in our claim form today to begin your journey towards justice and compensation. Our experts are ready to assist you every step of the way.
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