Occupational Hearing Loss and Compensation

When you enter into a workplace that has inherently dangerous noise levels, there is a risk of hearing loss. Jobs where loud noise is a regular staple in the environment can lead to damage inside your ear. Many of these same workers will work at the same job for many years, giving them long-term exposure to loud noises and blasts. Some of the most common jobs that can cause hearing loss are farming, factory work, and construction.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends that all worker exposures to noise should be controlled to under 85 dBA for eight hours to lessen the likelihood of workplace hearing loss. The statistics are shocking – every day, four million workers work in a setting that consists of damaging noises. As a result, more than ten million people in the U.S. now have noise-related hearing loss. Just to put things into perspective about how big the issue really is, reported cases of hearing loss accounted for 14% of occupational illness in 2007 alone! If you have suffered hearing loss in the workplace, where do you turn? What options do you have with the help of an attorney?

Can I Receive Compensation For my Hearing-Related Problems? 

There have been many cases tried over the years that lead to sizeable payments of compensation – some cases being so extreme that they result in millions for damages. Loss of hearing can be compensated for, but only in cases where another person’s negligence causes it. You must understand the type of loss you are dealing with, such as total or partial, to get a better idea of how much you can receive.

What Type of Compensation Should I Expect to Receive? 

If you have suffered from hearing loss, you can obtain compensation for your past and anticipated future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Compensation for past medical expenses is usually obvious, but compensation for the future will be estimated. Either way, it helps to have an attorney on your side if you have suffered hearing loss on the job – so give us a call today! We will review your medical records and give you a better understanding of a possible outcome.