Noise Induced hearing Loss and Tinnitus

The Experts in Noise Induced Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Claims

Military service often comes with exposure to extreme noise levels, whether it’s from firearms, heavy machinery, aircraft, or explosives. However, your employer should have provided you with adequate equipment to protect you from the long-term effects of these loud noises.

Exposure to high levels of noise in the Military – whether in training or service, can lead to long-term hearing damage, such as tinnitus and noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

At Oakwood Solicitors, we specialise in helping military personnel and veterans pursue compensation claims for these life-altering conditions.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It’s often described as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming noise in the ears.

Tinnitus can be intermittent or continuous, and in severe cases, it can severely impact a person’s quality of life, leading to issues with sleep, concentration, and mental health.

What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)?

Noise-induced hearing Loss (NIHL) is a type of permanent hearing damage caused by prolonged exposure to loud noise. In military environments, exposure to gunfire, explosions, and other high-decibel sounds can result in significant hearing loss.

While the condition may not be immediately noticeable, it can progressively worsen over time, affecting daily communication and social interactions.

The Impact of Tinnitus and NIHL on Military Personnel

Serving in the military is demanding, both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, many service members experience excessive noise exposure without adequate hearing protection, putting them at risk for both tinnitus and NIHL.

These conditions can have lasting consequences, including:

Difficulty in communication: Hearing loss and tinnitus can make it challenging to understand conversations or follow instructions.
Mental health issues: Constant ringing in the ears or the frustration from hearing loss can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress.
Career limitations: In severe cases, hearing issues may limit military career progression or force early retirement.

Am I Eligible to Make a Claim?

If you have been employed by the MOD anytime after 1987 then you may be able to claim if you have suffered from hearing loss.

We will need to determine the circumstances of your employment with them and whether you will have had sufficient exposure to noise. All of this can be considered and determined in a discussion with you.

We will also need to determine whether your hearing has been affected by the noise you have been exposed to and this can be determined by a simple, quick and painless hearing test.

We would always encourage anyone who has potentially been exposed to noise with their employer to contact us sooner rather than later, as there are certain time bars to bring claims which we also need to consider.

Common causes of noise-induced hearing loss in the Military

We often see Military Personnel suffering with noise induced hearing loss after being exposed to the following situations:

Exposure to loud noises during combat or training exercises.
Lack of adequate hearing protection or failure to provide effective protective gear.
Regular proximity to noisy machinery, weapons, aircraft, or other sources of excessive noise.

Can I still claim if I have left the Military?

You don’t have to still be serving in the military to file a claim.

Veterans who have since retired from service can also seek compensation if their hearing damage stems from their time in the military.

Compensation for Tinnitus and NIHL

The amount of compensation you may be entitled to depends on the severity of your condition and its impact on your life. Compensation can cover:

Loss of earnings
Medical expenses, including hearing aids or therapy
Pain and suffering
Impact on your daily life and employment prospects

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use Oakwood Solicitors Ltd?

Oakwood Solicitors has a proven track record of success in helping military personnel and veterans secure compensation for tinnitus and NIHL. We pride ourselves on our client-centred approach, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected.

With our expert team by your side, you can be confident that your claim is in capable hands.

Oakwood Solicitors is committed to supporting Armed Forces personnel, veterans and reservists, whether they are still serving or have entered civilian life.

Proudly partnered with veterans charity, Front Foot, we aim to support veterans in all manners of life.

Having signed the Armed Forces Covenant, Oakwood Solicitors is passionate about supporting and seeking justice for those who have served our country.

With a proven track record of success and a commitment to protecting your rights, Oakwood Solicitors is the trusted choice for military personnel seeking justice.

Contact Oakwood Solicitors today to discuss your Military compensation claim and how we can assist you.

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