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Workplace Related Hearing Loss: How to Recover Compensation

  • Published: April 16, 2023

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), approximately 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise at work each year in the United States. This exposure can lead to workplace-related hearing loss, a condition significantly impacting a person’s quality of life.

If you are a California resident suffering hearing loss due to an accident in the workplace, you may be entitled to compensation. However, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, which is why it is crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney.

Workplace-Related Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can occur in various industries, including agriculture, mining, construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Employers are legally responsible for providing a safe working environment for their employees, including minimizing exposure to hazardous noise levels. There are two main types of work-related hearing loss:

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises in the workplace. Examples of occupations at risk of developing NIHL include construction workers, factory workers, musicians, and airport ground crew. NIHL can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the noise exposure.

Occupational Hearing Loss (OHL)

Occupational hearing loss is caused by exposure to ototoxic chemicals, such as solvents and heavy metals, or physical trauma to the ear. Mining, agriculture, and construction industry workers may be at higher risk of developing OHL. Unlike NIHL, OHL can be permanent even after the worker is no longer exposed to harmful substances or activities.

If your employer has failed to take appropriate measures to protect you from workplace-related hearing loss, they may be liable for your damages. By working with a personal injury lawyer, you can hold your employer accountable and recover the compensation you deserve.

How to Build a Strong Workers’ Compensation Claim for Hearing Loss

Unlike other compensation claims designed to help you recover fully from your work injury, a hearing loss compensation claim requires providing you with long-term resources like hearing aids or cochlear implants. Take the following steps to aid you in recovering compensation for workplace-related hearing loss:

1. Seek Medical Attention

A qualified healthcare professional can evaluate the extent of your injuries and recommend treatment options. Documenting your injuries and treatment plan is essential, as this information will be necessary to support your claim.

2. Enlist a Personal Injury Attorney

Once you have received medical treatment, consulting with a personal injury attorney with experience handling workplace-related hearing loss cases is crucial. They are better positioned to understand the challenges of navigating the legal process. 

Our personal injury lawyers are committed to providing you with the guidance and support you need—review your case, gather evidence, and work with medical professionals to build a strong case on your behalf. Their goal is to help you recover the maximum compensation possible so that you can focus on your recovery and move forward with your life.

3. Obtain Proof of Negligence

One of the most critical factors in recovering compensation for workplace-related hearing loss is demonstrating that your employer’s negligence caused your injuries. This may involve proving that your employer failed to provide adequate hearing protection or ignored industry standards for noise levels.

A personal injury attorney will thoroughly investigate to gather evidence to support your claim, such as witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony.

What Compensation Are You Entitled to for Work-Related Hearing Loss?

If you have had hearing loss due to your work, you may be able to claim compensation. The compensation you can claim will depend on the severity of your hearing loss and its impact on your life. Generally, you may be entitled to receive benefits such as:

  • Medical treatment
  • Wage replacement if you can demonstrate that your job caused your hearing loss

Hearing loss can significantly impact a person’s ability to communicate and perform their job duties. It can also lead to emotional distress and reduced quality of life. Your personal injury attorney will work with medical professionals and other experts to evaluate the extent of your injuries and their long-term impact on your life. This information will determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to receive.

Get Legal Representation From KCNS Law Group

If you have suffered hearing loss due to negligence in the workplace, it is important to act quickly. California has a statute of limitations that limits your time to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long to seek legal help can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries. By working with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of recovering the compensation you deserve.

At KCNS Law Group, we are committed to helping our clients recover the compensation they deserve for workplace-related hearing loss and other injuries. Our attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and resources to handle even the most complex personal injury cases. Contact us online or call us today at (818) 937-9255 to schedule a consultation to discuss the specifics of your case and how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

KCNS Law Group LLP

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