Military Accidents at Work

Your Rights and Why You Should Claim: you are entitled to safe working environment and reasonable precautions deployed by your employer to keep you safe from harm. As a Ministry of Defence employee, you have the same rights as everyone else who isn't employed by the Army, Navy or Royal Air Force. Being in the military comes with dangers from direct combat and other aspects which can't be avoided, however, you should have received the correct safety equipment and training to significantly reduce the risk of harm.

What is a Military Accident at Work?

A military accident at work is any unexpected incident that occurs while serving in the armed forces, which results in an injury, illness, or even fatality. These accidents can include:

Training accidents

Accidents that occur during military training, such as live-fire exercises, physical training, or tactical manoeuvres.

Workplace injuries

Injuries sustained while performing routine duties on military bases or installations.

Vehicle accidents

Crashes involving military vehicles, including tanks, helicopters, and other transport vehicles. See our military traffic claims page for more information

Equipment failures

Accidents resulting from the malfunction of military equipment, including firearms, communication devices, or protective gear. See our defective equipment claims page for more information

Health and safety violations

Accidents due to inadequate safety measures, equipment maintenance, or hazardous conditions on military premises.

Every employee is protected by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1978, which is legislation enacted to keep you safe at work. The Health and Safety at Work Act requires certain things from your employer which include:

  • Providing the correct training information for you to be able to carry out your role
  • Making sure any environment they control is safe for you to work in and doesn't pose risks to your health
  • Maintaining equipment
  • Making sure there are no risks to your health when handling, storing or transporting work goods.

Why bring a military workplace accident?

It is your right to work in a safe environment, and when accidents occur, you deserve compensation for your physical and emotional as well as out of pocket expenses. A claim can help you recover:

  • Medical expenses: Military accidents can result in extensive medical costs and equipment. Claiming compensation can help you cover the cost of medical treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Lost income: If your injuries lead to time off work, you may experience a loss of income. Compensation can help bridge this financial gap.
  • Quality of life: Serious injuries can have a lasting impact on your quality of life. Pursuing a claim can help you access the resources needed for recovery and rehabilitation.
  • Accountability: Holding responsible parties accountable for the accident can promote a culture of safety within the military and prevent similar incidents in the future.

How to pursue an accident claim

  • Seek medical attention: Your health and well-being should be the top priority. Ensure you receive the necessary medical care and document all injuries.
  • Report the incident: Report the accident to your superior officer and ensure it is documented in accordance with military protocols.
  • Gather evidence: Collect evidence related to the accident, including photographs, witness statements, and any relevant documents.
  • Contact us: to investigate a personal injury compensation claim for you.

Compensation Routes

If you have sustained an accident as an employee of the military, you might be entitled to make a personal injury claim. We take a civil claim on your behalf for compensation. There are time scales and you should contact us as soon as possible to investigate an action for you. 

If your injury was caused wholly or partly by your service, you should also make a claim to the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme as soon as possible. There are strict time limits and we would encourage a claim be submitted as soon as possible.

Our solicitors understand the complex and long-lasting challenges that can be posed by accidents at work. We are here to help military personnel and veterans navigate the compensation. We will ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and their consequences.

Discuss your Military Injury Case

If you or a loved one has experienced an accident while serving in the military, reach out to Speir Buchan today. We are here to provide not only expert legal guidance but also an understanding of the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you face. Together, we will work towards securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

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Discuss Your Case

Are you are seeking legal representation for "No Win No fee" complex litigation matters? Speir Buchan is your trusted partner, specialising in: Medical Negligence, Workplace Accidents, MOD (Ministry of Defence) Claims and Road Traffic Accidents.