Military Noise Induced Hearing Loss

Military-induced hearing loss is a prevalent issue among veterans and active-duty service members due to prolonged exposure to high levels of noise during training, combat, and other military activities. This condition can significantly impact upon quality of life, making it essential to seek legal guidance as to whether we can help you get compensation to assist with management of the condition.

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What is military induced hearing loss?

Military-induced hearing loss refers to the impairment of hearing abilities caused by exposure to loud noises in military environments. The consistent use of firearms, explosives, aircraft, and heavy machinery without adequate hearing protection can lead to damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear. This damage can result in hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and other auditory problems.

Induced hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis (heightened sensitivity to everyday sounds) caused by military equipment can be psychologically challenging and damage your quality of life but crucially, in most cases it is completely avoidable.

Noise induced hearing loss can be caused by:

Aircraft noise
Vehicle engine noise
Brass bands.
Gun and artillery fire
Mortars
Explosions
Pyrotechnics

Serving in the military can often mean working in noisy environment, but with proper safety measures being taken your hearing can be protected. Failure to take these measures, can lead to unnecessary exposure resulting in tinnitus and induced hearing loss.

Hearing loss and associated conditions can be caused by one-time or repeated exposure to noise levels over a certain level, such as explosions and the discharge of weapons during military service.

Examples of the types of claims which can be taken on your behalf include:

A delay in referring and/or diagnosing noise induced hearing loss, resulting in further damage to hearing
Incorrect medical grading of personnel with noise induced hearing loss
noise induced hearing loss caused by the negligent use of equipment or weapons
Exposure to excessive noise or short bursts of high frequency and high intensity sounds during training or exercise without adequate instruction
Inadequate or unsuitable hearing protection (PPE, or personal protective equipment)

Why bring a hearing loss injury claim?

Financial support: Compensation can provide financial support for medical treatments, assistive devices, therapy, and other necessary services related to your hearing loss.

Quality of life: Hearing loss can significantly impact your daily life, affecting communication, relationships, and overall well-being. Compensation can help improve your quality of life by providing access to resources and support.
Accountability: Filing a claim holds responsible parties accountable for the negligence that led to your military-induced hearing loss. It ensures that those responsible are held liable for the harm caused.
Access to specialised care: Compensation can enable you to access specialised medical care and rehabilitation services tailored to your specific needs, helping you manage your condition effectively.
Employment and career impact: noise induced hearing loss often force individuals to change careers or modify job responsibilities. Returning to the workforce may require retraining and adjustments to the work environment.
Career disruption: Many military personnel are forced to leave active duty or face reassignment to non-combat roles due to the limitations caused by spinal injuries. This can have a profound impact on their military careers and future prospects.
Physical and emotional trauma: noise induced hearing loss can often result in discomfort and emotional distress. The physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming at times
Ongoing medical care: noise induced hearing loss typically require a lifetime of medical care, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and assistive devices. These treatments can be costly, and securing adequate compensation is crucial.

Compensation Routes

If you have sustained a noise induced hearing loss whilst serving in the military, you might be entitled to make a noise induced hearing loss 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 posed by noise induced hearing loss. 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 Hearing Loss Claim.

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.