The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his service-connected shell fragment wound left thigh and right lower leg disabilities, as well as PTSD, have been denied. The current ratings of 40% for the left thigh injury and 30% for the right leg injuries are upheld.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not support a higher rating based on the severity of the muscle group XIV injury or the PTSD symptoms alone, given that the Veteran's conditions have already been rated at their maximum under applicable diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- shell fragment wound left thigh, posttraumatic stress disorder
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 70%
- Decision date
- October 21, 2020
- Citation
- 20067911
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The appeal for a temporary total evaluation because of hospital treatment in excess of 21 days for service-connected posttraumatic stress disorder was withdrawn by the Veteran's representative and is therefore dismissed.
- Granted
The Board granted an increased (Level 2) stipend in the PCAFC for the Veteran's caregiver due to the need for continuous supervision and protection based on the Veteran's medical conditions.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claims for special monthly compensation based on aid and attendance or housebound status due to her service-connected disabilities not meeting the criteria.
- Dismissed
The appeal of the proposed effective date for service connection for posttraumatic stress disorder was dismissed as a matter of law.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.