Police officers set to launch legal claim after hearing loss

Several police officers are seeking to file a hearing loss claim against Police Scotland due to noise-induced hearing loss incurred while policing the street.

Bereavement Team

The incident involved youths setting off a constant barrage of fireworks and petrol bombs. Officers deployed for the operation, including riot police, faced unprecedented levels of noise and violence over two to three hours.

Despite being aware of the risks, Police Scotland allegedly failed to provide adequate ear protection, such as noise defenders, to the officers on duty. This oversight led to significant hearing damage, particularly tinnitus, for many officers who now struggle to hear routine sounds. A number of officers have now sought legal advice.

A Scottish Government spokesperson noted that measures are being evaluated to prevent such incidents in the future, including the potential designation of more Firework Control Zones to protect officers from similar harm. The officers’ hearing loss claims emphasize the need for better safety measures during high-risk events.

Jones Whyte can help by making a claim on a no win no fee basis. Find out more today.

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What Happened?

Chaos descended in Niddrie, Edinburgh, when a group of around 50 youths launched fireworks and petrol bombs at riot police.

The Scottish Police Federation (SPF), representing rank-and-file officers, reported that approximately 70 officers sustained injuries.

While most injuries were minor, the worst affected continue to experience hearing problems, and another officer remains injured after being struck by a firework.

During the attack, which lasted two to three hours, the police officers were exposed to hours of constant barrage of fireworks and petrol bombs for around three hours, many of them now suffering from Tinnitus.

As well as Police Officers, other major operations were affected, The Scottish Fire and Rescue Services (SFRS) reported nine crews were attacked across the country.

Members of the Scottish Police Federation are now looking to take legal action against Police Scotland in the form of personal injury claims. This is where Jones Whyte can help.

Making a Personal Injury Claim and Taking Legal Action 

A personal injury claim is a legal process in which an individual who has been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence or intentional harm seeks compensation for their damages, such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. 

The goal of a personal injury claim is to hold the responsible party accountable and to compensate the injured party for the harm they have suffered. 

We understand that it’s not always easy dealing with a personal injury claim. We’ll help guide you through the process with our specialist personal injury team. Our aim is to get you the compensation you deserve and the recognition of your negligence.  

Officers who suffered hearing loss as a result of this event could make a personal injury claim. Speak to one of your personal injury solicitors today.

Questions you might have

Tinnitus can be a life-changing condition. It’s the name for hearing sounds that come from inside your body rather than an outside source. The symptoms include hearing constant noise, which can include: 

  • Ringing
  • Buzzing
  • Whistling
  • Hissing

For some people, tinnitus can come and go, for others, it can impact their daily life.  

Management strategies include sound therapy, hearing aids, cognitive behavioural therapy, and addressing underlying health issues. In some cases, medical or surgical treatments may be necessary. 

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