Injuries During Overseas Deployment – Can You Still Claim?

Serving overseas is part of military life, but it exposes service personnel to environments where the risks can be as unpredictable as they are severe. Whether deployed on peace-keeping duties, training with allies, or serving in conflict zones, injuries are not uncommon. When they occur, the question often arises: can you still claim compensation if the injury happened abroad?

At Ison Harrison, we have represented many service personnel and veterans in pursuing claims after overseas injuries. The law is clear that the Ministry of Defence’s duty of care does not stop at the border. If negligence contributed to your injury, a claim may still be possible under English law.

Can You Claim for Injuries Abroad?

The location of your deployment does not remove your right to protection. What matters is whether the MoD, or another responsible body, failed to take reasonable steps to keep you safe. This might mean equipment was not fit for purpose, inadequate training before deployment, or poor planning leaving service personnel exposed to unnecessary risks. Even negligence in basic matters, such as transport arrangements, or conditions on a base can give rise to a claim.

Understanding the MoD’s Duty of Care

The MoD has a continuing legal duty to safeguard the wellbeing of personnel, wherever they are serving. That obligation covers providing proper training and supervision, ensuring equipment is tested and suitable, carrying out risk assessments for deployments, and responding quickly to medical needs. Where those responsibilities are ignored and injury follows, the duty of care has been breached.

Types of Overseas Injuries

The injuries suffered during overseas deployment can vary widely. Some involve physical harm, such as fractures, burns, crush injuries, spinal damage or hearing loss from blasts. Others are psychological, with PTSD and long-term trauma sadly all too common. In the most serious cases, families bring dependency claims after fatal accidents. What links these claims is the principle that preventable harm should never be written off as “part of service”.

How the Claims Process Works

For many service personnel, the idea of acting against the MoD feels daunting, yet the process is clear and well-established. It begins with a confidential consultation where we review your circumstances and advise whether a claim is viable. From there, evidence is gathered, such as medical records, service documents and witness statements, before a claim is formally submitted. Many cases are resolved through negotiation, although litigation remains an option where settlement cannot be achieved. Compensation, if awarded, can include damages for pain and suffering, loss of earnings, and the cost of treatment or ongoing care.

We act on a no win, no fee basis in eligible cases, removing the financial risk of pursuing justice.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

With decades of experience and a dedicated military injury team, we are trusted by service personnel and veterans across the UK. Our Lexcel accreditation reflects our commitment to excellence, while our network of offices across Yorkshire and beyond ensures that support is always accessible. We cover the whole of the UK and will come out to see you in person where appropriate. Just as importantly, we understand the pressures of service life and provide legal advice that is both compassionate and practical.

Take the Next Step

If you have been injured overseas and believe negligence may have played a role, it is important to act without delay. Time limits apply to military injury claims, and early advice often makes all the difference.

We can also assist with Armed Forces applications and appeals where negligence has not been a factor. Time limits also apply so it is important not to delay.

Contact Ison Harrison today for a free, no-obligation consultation.