Our Military Injury solicitors helped a former soldier make a successful claim against the Ministry of Defence after he was injured in a training exercise.
Private Brown* was taking part in a training exercise with his regiment. Part of the training involved the soldiers going through a tunnel system. While Private Brown was going through the tunnels a grenade went off right at his feet.
Private Brown was wearing hearing protection but the sound of the grenade was so loud and close to him that the protection wasn’t enough. It caused permanent damage to Private Brown’s hearing. This caused Private Brown to be discharged from the Army meaning he was unable to pursue his career further.
After his injury, Private Brown went through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. This scheme helps injured personnel get some compensation based on a tariff. Private Brown received £14,800 through the scheme. This was devastating news for Private Brown. He was hoping for a long career in the Army and his compensation wasn’t enough for his future and the pain and suffering.
How We Helped
He contacted our Military Injury team and worked with David Johnston-Keay, a Senior Associate, to see if there was anything he could do.
David investigated the incident and found that the grenade in the tunnel was not supposed to be there. It was unclear how it ended up in the tunnel but it was a serious safety concern, which led to Private Brown’s permanent hearing damage.
With this information, David helped Private Brown make a compensation claim against the Ministry of Defence (MOD).
Negotiating The Settlement
The MOD refused to accept responsibility because no one knew why the grenade was in the tunnel. The claim was set to go to a trial but we negotiated a £200,000 settlement just two weeks before the trial date. This was a significant increase from the £14,800 Private Brown originally received.
This was a very successful outcome for Private Brown which would help him pay for any future medical needs. It would also give him some financial security now that he couldn’t continue his career in the Army.
David Johnston-Keay said:
"This is a frustrating case, where another soldier has lost the chance of pursuing a full and prosperous career in the Armed Forces through no fault of his own.
"The size of the settlement reflects the value of the earnings and pension Private Brown would have received had he been allowed to continue to serve uninjured. It also includes an amount to reflect the suffering caused by tinnitus.
"No amount of compensation can put right what happened on that exercise. However, it is hoped that the money will help set up Private Brown for a fresh start in civilian life."
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while in the Army, our Military Injury Team could help. Contact us to discuss your situation on 0370 1500 100 or fill out our online form and we’ll call you back.
*Not client’s real name.
Back to Client Stories
