Combat is a major reason for injuries to military personnel, but people often make the mistake of assuming that it’s the only cause. They think of the danger from injuries and fatalities as linked to whether or not a soldier is engaged in active conflict with an enemy force.
The reality, though, is that working in the military comes with the same risks as working in many other professions where workers use vehicles, heavy machinery and power tools. Soldiers who are nowhere near a combat operation can suffer serious injuries, just like construction workers, road workers, delivery drivers and many other civilian workers back home.
For example, there was a recent vehicle accident involving an American military vehicle and a Russian vehicle. No shots were ever fired. It’s unclear why the crash happened. But four American soldiers were injured, suffering concussions and similar brain injuries.
These types of injuries could also happen in areas where only other American troops are nearby. Two trucks could crash on a base or as part of a convoy. Routine training accidents involving boats and aircraft can lead to injuries. Civilian contractors on military bases could have mishaps and suffer injuries while using heavy machinery. There are almost countless examples, but what is important is to remember that being in the military can be risky, even for those who never have to fire a single shot during the course of their careers.
Those who do get hurt on the job also need to know exactly what legal options they have to seek compensation for the injuries they suffer.