Hearing loss can be a significant concern for many workers, especially those in industries with high noise levels. Understanding whether workers' compensation covers hearing loss is crucial for employees who experience this condition because of their work.
For workers' compensation to cover hearing loss, the condition must meet specific criteria. First, the hearing loss must be work-related, meaning it arose out of and in the course of employment. Second, there should be medical evidence supporting the hearing loss diagnosis, often provided by an audiologist or an otolaryngologist. Employers might also require a hearing test before employment to establish a baseline hearing level.
Filing a Claim for Hearing Loss
The process of filing a claim for hearing loss under workers' compensation involves several steps. The employee should report the hearing loss to their employer as soon as possible, usually within a specified timeframe. Delays in reporting can jeopardize the claim.
The employee must then seek medical evaluation and obtain a diagnosis linking the hearing loss to their work environment. This medical evidence becomes a crucial part of the workers' compensation claim.
Workers’ Comp Benefits Provided for Hearing Loss
Workers' compensation benefits for hearing loss typically cover medical expenses related to the diagnosis and treatment of the condition. This might include costs for hearing aids, audiological exams, and any necessary surgical procedures.
Additionally, workers' compensation may provide wage replacement if the hearing loss leads to missed workdays or reduced earning capacity. In severe cases where hearing loss causes significant disability, permanent partial disability benefits might be available.
The Benefits of Hiring a Workers’ Comp Lawyer
Hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer is a good idea when you wish to file a workers’ comp claim for hearing loss. Although this condition is common among many types of workers across various industries, hearing loss could be attributed to factors not related to work, which can make it difficult to succeed with a claim.
A worker’s compensation lawyer can help you address this challenge in the following ways:
- Providing legal advice and guidance throughout the workers’ compensation claim process.
- Ensuring all paperwork is properly filled out and filed in a timely manner.
- Helping you collect and assemble evidence that demonstrates the connection between your job and your hearing loss.
- Assisting you with an appeal should your initial claim be denied.
With a workers’ compensation lawyer on your side, you can worry a lot less about the overall process and the road ahead of you.
Contact Us for Legal Assistance
If you want a legal advocate to help you navigate your workers’ compensation claim for hearing loss, turn to our experienced attorney at Michael J. Doyle, Attorney At Law. With nearly 20 years of trial-tested experience, we have what it takes to provide the legal support and representation you need during this time.
Learn more about how we can help you by contacting us online and requesting an initial consultation.