If your job has caused you to experience hearing loss, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is an insurance scheme that gives benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their employment. It might be difficult to file a claim for workers’ compensation, but it is crucial to understand your rights and how to navigate the procedure. This blog will provide information on how to file a workplace hearing loss claim.
What is Workplace Hearing Loss?
Workplace hearing loss is an occupational disease that is caused by exposure to noise. Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common type of permanent hearing loss. Symptoms of workplace hearing loss include difficulty hearing conversations, needing to ask people to repeat themselves, and ringing in the ears. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is essential.
Causes Of Workplace Hearing Loss
Hearing loss in the workplace is a serious issue that can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. There are numerous reasons for hearing loss in the workplace, but here are the five most prevalent:
- Exposure to loud noise: This is by far the most common cause of workplace hearing loss. If you work in a noisy environment, you are at risk of damaging your hearing.
- Improper use of personal protective equipment: If you do not wear the proper protective gear when working in a loud environment, you are putting yourself at risk of hearing loss.
- Ototoxic chemicals: Some chemicals can damage your hearing. If you work with these chemicals, you must take precautions to protect your hearing.
- Head injuries: A head injury can damage the structures in your ear and lead to hearing loss.
- Age: As you age, your hearing declines. If you work in a noisy environment, this decline will be accelerated.
It is imperative that you consult a doctor as soon as possible if you are experiencing workplace hearing loss. There are treatments that can assist, but it is best to begin treatment as soon as possible.
How To File a Claim For Workplace Hearing Loss?
Filing a claim for workers’ compensation can be a daunting task, but it is important to know your rights and how to navigate the process. This blog will provide you with information on how to file a claim for hearing loss and what you can expect during the process.
The first step in filing a claim is to notify your employer. You should do this as soon as you realize you have hearing loss. Your employer then can file a claim with their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
Once your employer has filed a claim, you will be assigned a claims adjuster. The claims adjuster will contact you to discuss your claim and gather information. They will also likely order a hearing test.
Once the claims adjuster has all the necessary information, they will decide on your claim. If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving benefits. These benefits can include payment for medical expenses and lost wages.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing workplace hearing loss, you should seek the assistance of an expert attorney. The attorneys at San Gabriel Valley Workers’ Compensation Law Firm have significant experience with workers’ compensation claims and can guide you through the claims process. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (626) 602-9483 today.