Non-Freezing Cold Injury Claims
If you have suffered an injury after being exposed to extremely low temperatures while serving in the military, our Armed Forces solicitors can help you. Our specialist team has helped hundreds of service personnel to claim compensation because of negligence on the part of the Ministry of Defence.
We are an award-winning team of solicitors who are widely recognised for our practical and pragmatic approach to legal advice. We understand the devastating impact that a non-freezing cold injury can have on those affected, which is why we will work tirelessly to put you in the best position to claim compensation.
Speak to us today about making a non-freezing cold injury (NFCI) claim by calling 0345 450 9547, or complete our online enquiry form and we will call back at a time that suits you.
How JMW Can Help
When it comes to non-freezing cold injury claims, the team at JMW is second to none. We offer a great deal of expertise when it comes to this type of injury, and put this to work by securing compensation for military personnel who have suffered due to negligence.
We regularly deal with NFCI claims that are caused by:
- Poor risk assessment
- Lack of suitable kit
- Lack of training, which means an NFCI is not properly diagnosed
- Failure to remove the affected individual from cold/wet conditions
- Re-exposing individuals to cold conditions
We fight to do what is best for our clients, providing straightforward advice and assistance throughout the claims process, so you know where your non-freezing cold injury claim is up to at all times.
Whether you have suffered an NFCI, or have suffered any other form of injury during your time in the Armed Forces, we can help you to make a compensation claim. Our Armed Forces claims team is a specialist in military claims and is on hand to give you the advice you need to make a successful claim.
Our Armed Forces department is led by respected solicitor and partner Clare Stevens, who has significant experience in representing injured servicemen and women in a wide range of military claims.
Does the Ministry of Defence Have a Duty of Care?
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has a legal responsibility to prevent NFCI for individuals serving in the Armed Forces. Unfortunately, this does not always happen and mistakes or negligence made by senior personnel means that incidents occur where people suffer from NFCI.
The Ministry of Defence has provided clear advice on reducing the risk of injury in the JSP 375 guidance: Cold injury: prevention and management. However, Commanders are often unaware of the guidance or have chosen to ignore it. NFCI can be prevented by:
- Providing suitable kit
- Keeping hands and feet as dry as possible
- Regular foot inspections
- Limiting exposure to cold and wet climates
- Regular hot food and drink
- Assessing, reviewing and monitoring weather conditions
- Listening to complaints - one person suffering an NFCI means others are likely to have the injury or be at risk
If you or a loved one have been affected by an NFCI that was caused by the negligence of another party while serving in the Armed Forces, our solicitors can help you to make a compensation claim.
FAQs About Non-Freezing Cold Injuries
What are the symptoms of a non-freezing cold injury?
Service personnel should be trained to recognise the signs and symptoms of an NFCI to allow them to act fast when seeking treatment, and prevent the damage from becoming irreversible.
Symptoms of NFCI can include:
- Numbness
- Pain
- Pins and needles
How is a non-freezing cold injury treated?
To treat an NFCI, there are a number of steps that can be taken:
- Remove wet boots and socks and/or gloves
- Dry wet hands/feet
- Replace wet socks or gloves
- Change into dry kit as soon as possible
- Use foot powder
- Wiggle the toes and/or fingers to keep them warm
- Gently re-warm the feet and/or hands
How do I make an NFCI claim?
Service personnel who have suffered a non-freezing cold injury may be entitled to a payment from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme as a result of the incident. It is also possible to start a civil claim for cold injury compensation; however, you cannot be compensated twice for the same injuries.
JMW Solicitors can advise on the best route to take, representing you every step of the way to suggest that justice is served.
What are the time limits for making a non-freezing cold injury claim?
The usual time limit for making an NFCI claim is three years from the time the injury occurred. We would advise seeking legal advice from a solicitor as early as possible, giving you the best chance of securing the compensation you deserve.
Talk to Us
To start a military claim for compensation, speak to a specialist today by calling 0345 450 9547. Alternatively, complete our online contact form and we will call back at a time that suits you.
