Non-Freezing Cold Injury (NFCI) Claims. If you have suffered a non-freezing cold injury while serving in the Army, Navy, RAF or special forces you may be eligible to claim compensation from the Ministry Of Defence.
NFCI can be serious and result in lost careers. Our team has specialist knowledge to ensure you receive the maximum compensation in relation to your losses.
What are non-freezing cold injury claims?
Non-freezing cold injuries affect the hands and the feet. They are caused by exposure to wet conditions where the temperature is just above freezing.
The main causes are
- Improper/defective clothing and equipment
- Wetness
- Fatigue, exhaustion
- Dehydration and poor food intake
- Lack of knowledge of hypothermia
- Failure of RMO to initiate appropriate treatment at the outset
The education of all personnel on how to practice personal prevention measures should include the following subjects:
- proper foot care
- frequent changing of clothing
- the exercise of extremities in pinned-down positions
- proper dress and work in a cold environment
- recognition of symptoms of cold injury
- buddy aid treatment
- maintaining adequate hydration and nutritional status
A failure to ensure that personnel is provided with adequate training to recognise and treat NFCI while training or on active service can lead to a successful claim for compensation.
Bringing your claim
There is no need for NFCI to occur. They can be avoided by providing the correct equipment in good condition and implementing effective prevention strategies in relation to training and on-field activities and conditions.
We can review your claim and advise as to the potential strengths and weaknesses there may be in your case. If we think that you have reasonable prospects of success we can deal with your claim under a conditional fee agreement so that if your claim is not successful then, subject to your compliance with our terms and conditions you will not have to pay for the work we have done on your behalf.
To see how we can help with your claim get in touch with us today:
- call: Diane Davison on 0113 224 7837
- email: mc@cohencramer.co.uk
What you can claim for a non-freezing cold injury
We would seek compensation in relation to your injuries.
The effects of LFC I can be devastating resulting in persistent sensory disturbance of both hands and feet. This includes
- numbness
- paresthesia
- chronic pain.
The extent of the injury can result in a loss of career.
In addition to compensation for your pain and suffering, we would look to recover for all and any financial losses you have sustained as a result of the condition.
This can include loss of income due to restricted advancement within the service or a medical discharge as well as restrictions on post-service employment.
Frequently asked questions
How do long do I have to bring a civil claim for compensation for a non-freezing cold injury?
In general, you have three years from the date of the incident to begin court proceedings in support of your claim. This period runs from the 18th birthday if the injured party is under 18 at the time of the incident.
The courts do have the discretion to extend this period but only in exceptional circumstances. We would recommend that you seek legal advice as soon as possible after your accident. This is to help preserve evidence and to ensure that you receive any treatment or rehabilitation that you may need as soon as possible.
There are other exceptions to the three-year rule so always seek advice from solicitors with the knowledge and expertise to ensure that your claim is protected.
How much can I claim?
We treat each client as an individual and your claim will be valued upon your injuries and how they have affected you. Our medical experts will provide with us the reports we need to value and support your claim.
In addition, we will claim for all and any financial losses, including future losses, that may be incurred as a result of your injury.
How long will my claim take?
There is no set answer to this as all claims are different.
The length of your claim will depend upon:
- the circumstances of the incident
- the extent of your injuries
- how long it will take for recovery to take place
What will it cost me to bring my claim?
If we think that your claim has reasonable prospects of success then we will be able to act on a no win- no fee basis. This means that if your claim is not successful then, as long as you have complied with our terms and conditions you will not be charged for the work we have done.
Start your claim today
To claim the compensation you deserve get in touch with us today:
- Call: Diane Davison on 0113 224 7837
- Email: mc@cohencramer.co.uk
- Complete the contact form at the bottom of this page