At Harris Fowler Solicitors, we understand the unique and often challenging environments faced by service personnel.
One of the more common yet often overlooked consequences of military service is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and Tinnitus, conditions that can severely affect your quality of life, long after your service ends.
If you have served in the British Armed Forces and are experiencing hearing loss or persistent ringing in the ears, you may be entitled to compensation.
What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss is a type of permanent hearing damage caused by prolonged or sudden exposure to loud noise. Consequently, in the military, this could result from:
- Gunfire and explosions
- Artillery or heavy weapons
- Aircraft engines
- Armoured vehicles
- Training exercises or combat operations
Hearing loss from these sources may develop gradually over time or suddenly after a specific event. Tinnitus, a constant or intermittent ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears often occurs following Noise Induced Hearing Loss.
How Does This Relate to Military Service?
Military environments are, by their nature, noisy and potentially harmful to hearing. However, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has a legal duty to provide adequate hearing protection and to reduce the risk of hearing damage through proper training and equipment.
If you were not given adequate hearing protection or weren’t made aware of the risks to your hearing, and you now suffer from Noise inducing hearing loss or Tinnitus, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.
Time Limits
Typically, personal injury claims must be made within three years of when you first became aware that your hearing loss was linked to your military service. This is known as the “date of knowledge.”
We strongly advise speaking with a solicitor as soon as you suspect your hearing may have been damaged during your time in the forces.
Are you Eligible to Claim?
You may be eligible to make a claim if:
- You served in any branch of the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, RAF)
- You were exposed to loud noise during service
- You now suffer from hearing loss and/or tinnitus
- You did not receive sufficient hearing protection or instruction on its use
Even if your service was many years ago, and even if you’ve already left the forces, you may still have a valid claim.
Why Choose Harris Fowler Solicitors?
At Harris Fowler, we specialise in personal injury law and have helped thousands of clients secure the compensation they deserve. We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis, meaning there is no financial risk to you in pursuing a claim.
We will:
- Provide a free, no-obligation consultation
- Arrange for a hearing test with a qualified audiologist
- Handle all communication with the MoD or relevant parties
- Work to secure compensation for hearing aids, medical care, and the impact on your daily life
Next Steps
If you believe you may be suffering from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss due to your military service, the first step is to contact us for a free assessment. Our friendly and professional team will guide you through the process with sensitivity and expertise.
Contact Harris Fowler on 0800 213 214
