We secured a multi-million pound settlement for a soldier who was left with permanent brain damage after receiving negligent medical treatment in Afghanistan.
Our client was injured whilst on patrol with his unit and was airlifted to Camp Bastion Hospital. While he was being airlifted, however, he was given negligent treatment by an RAF doctor who was part of the Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT).
He suffered a significant brain injury and was left minimally aware and at worst in a vegetative state. He will remain dependant on others for all functions, activities of daily living and care for 24 hours a day.
Irwin Mitchell was instructed by the soldier’s mother, because her son lacked the mental capacity to instruct us himself: we secured a multi-million pound compensation package for the soldier, to make sure he is supported for the rest of his life.
He now requires a 24/7 care package and on-going therapy and rehabilitation needs, including physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy. He has also been able to move to a fully adapted bungalow that has been specifically designed and built to accommodate his needs and disabilities.
The case involved a significant amount of expert evidence and the final settlement was structured in a way to make sure the soldier receives lifelong funds for his extensive care needs, support from a professional financial deputy, and a lump sum award to help fund private rehabilitation and health care. He will also continue to receive his AFCS benefits in full.
Andrew Buckman, an expert military solicitor, represented the soldier in his claim. He said of the case: “This is a terrible thing to have happened – our client’s life, and his family’s, will never be the same again. We’re pleased the MoD accepted responsibility for the injury because of the negligent treatment provided in the field. This compensation package, along with his ACFS benefits, will ensure he has the support and care he needs for the rest of his life. While this cannot change what has happened, it does mean there is now place a well-funded and comprehensive care package in place, and our client is able to live in a fully adapted home.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury because of medical negligence in the Armed Forces, our Military Injury solicitors could help you claim compensation. See our Armed Forces Medical Negligence page for more information.
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