Vets May Now Be Able To Get Higher Disability Ratings For Service-Connected Injuries

Thank you for the information! I've been fighting with the VA for 6 years now for my back, they gave me compensation for the sciatic (sp?) nerve pain... but nothing for my back..

Taking flare ups into consideration is definitely something that most examiners do not do. If that becomes normal SOP, it will give thousands of veterans the opportunity to file for increases.

Buddy or layperson statements have always been accepted as evidence. I have my veterans' spouses, parents, or friends complete statements all the time as part of the initial claim packet. They attest to what they witness, nothing more.

Using the back as an example, the spouse can describe the amount of time it takes for the veteran to get out of bed and moving. They might need to assist with getting socks/shoes on and off. Whatever the case may be.

The buddy statements can be used as evidence for existing symptoms or can be used as witness statements to the incident/injury to prove service connection.

Fantastic news, thanks for posting this.