Post-Deployment Injury Claims: What You Need to Know

As a veteran, you have sacrificed so much for our country, and physical injuries are a painful daily reminder of those heroic sacrifices. The good news is that you have rights and options. Whether it’s a traumatic brain injury, hearing loss, or a physical disability, you deserve and are legally entitled to compensation and support to help you navigate this difficult time. Don’t face this alone, reach out to an Orange County military injury attorney now.

What Is a Post-Deployment Injury Claim?

A post-deployment injury claim is a legal case filed by a veteran or their loved one seeking financial compensation for injuries sustained during or as a result of military deployment. Post-deployment injuries often occur due to combat, training exercises, exposure to harmful environments, or accidents. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on a veteran’s physical and mental well-being, impacting their ability to work, enjoy daily activities, and maintain relationships.

Common Post-Deployment Injuries

Post-deployment injuries encompass a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. As an Orange County military injury attorney, here are some of the most common injuries we see among veterans:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs can occur from a blow or jolt to the head, leading to cognitive and behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, and headaches.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event, causing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and mood swings.
• Hearing Loss and Tinnitus: Exposure to noise from weapons, machinery, and explosions can result in hearing loss and ringing or buzzing in the ears known as tinnitus.
• Musculoskeletal Injuries: The physical demands of military service can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, including joint pain, back problems, and disabilities.
• Respiratory Conditions: Exposure to smoke, chemicals, dust, and other environmental hazards can lead to respiratory illnesses such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer.
• Vision Loss and Eye Injuries: Combat situations and exposure to harmful substances can cause vision loss, eye injuries, and chronic eye conditions.

7 Tricks for a Successful Claim

When filing a post-deployment injury claim, here are seven hacks to consider:

• Do Not Accept Initial Settlement Offers: Insurance companies or their corporate attorneys will offer a low initial settlement to resolve your claim quickly. However, these initial offers are far less than you deserve. 
• Get Witness Statements: Witnesses for an injury? Yes! If there were witnesses present when your injury occurred, gather statements from them to support your case. Witness statements can provide invaluable insight into the circumstances surrounding your injuries.
• Notify Your Commanding Officer: As simple as this one may seem, it does still somehow get overlooked. Report your injuries to your commanding officer as soon as possible. This formal notification ensures that your injuries are documented within the military system.
• Get a Free Consultation with an Orange County Military Injury Attorney: Legal representation from a trustworthy Orange County military injury attorney makes a huge difference in how the insurance organization, military, or federal government perceives your case. 
• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all medical appointments, treatments, prescriptions, and symptoms related to your injuries. This documentation will be crucial evidence for your claim.
• Be Mindful of Deadlines: Each state has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. It’s essential to be aware of these deadlines and take timely action to avoid losing your right to compensation.
• Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: One of the biggest mistakes our office sees is military members not following through with recommended treatments, medications, and therapies—don’t be that person!

Post-Deployment Injury FAQs

• Can I still file a claim if my injury occurred years after leaving the military? Yes, you can still file a claim. The key is establishing a connection between your current condition and your military service.
• How long will it take to resolve my claim? Your Orange County military injury lawyer attorney can provide an estimate based on the specifics of your situation.
• What types of compensation can I receive? Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vocational training, among others.
• Can I receive compensation if my injury occurred during training? Yes, injuries sustained during training are eligible for compensation.
• Can I file a claim for a preexisting condition that was aggravated during military service? Yes, if your preexisting condition was worsened or aggravated due to military service, you may be eligible for compensation.
• Can family members file a claim on behalf of a deceased veteran? Yes, surviving family members, such as spouses and children, are generally able to file claims for wrongful death or dependency and indemnity compensation.
• Can I appeal a denied claim? Yes, if your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. 
• Can I file a claim if I am still on active duty? Yes, active-duty military personnel can file claims.
• How much does it cost to hire an Orange County military injury attorney? Most military injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, including the Law Office of William Bruzzo, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. Our fees are a percentage of the compensation you receive.
• How can a military injury attorney help me with my claim? A military injury attorney can navigate the stressful claims process, gather evidence, work with medical experts to strengthen your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your best interests.

How an Orange County Military Injury Attorney Can Help

If you are a veteran in Orange County seeking assistance with your post-deployment injury claim, you can trust the Law Office of William Bruzzo. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Military members sacrifice so much, and we are firm believers in giving you the red carpet treatment you deserve.

When you choose an Orange County military injury attorney at the Law Office of William Bruzzo, you can expect personalized attention and dedicated advocacy. Our legal team will maximize your compensation while providing compassionate support throughout the entire process. To set up a free case review and pick a lawyer’s brain about your rights and options, contact us today.