Hearing Loss

Schedule a free consultation, today!

*REQUIRED

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Hearing Loss

Schedule a free consultation, today!

*REQUIRED

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Client Results

Hearing Loss

Some workplace injuries are neither seen nor felt, but silently endured. Hearing loss is one of the top injuries workers face, but it often goes unnoticed until it profoundly impacts their daily lives. Our dedicated team of local personal injury attorneys are committed to representing workers who are affected by occupational hearing loss and to ensuring responsible parties are held accountable. From scheduling audiograms to explaining your rights under the law, our team is equipped and ready to guide you through the complexities of workers’ compensation claims for hearing loss.

Your Voice For Workplace Injury Claims

In a fast-paced work environment, the subtle signs of hearing loss can often be overlooked. Diminished hearing can profoundly affect your professional and personal life, and we’re committed to elevating the awareness and urgency surrounding these cases. At SWLA Injury Attorneys, we have a deep understanding of the law for workplace hearing loss claims and can help you determine whether you have a valid case. For some workers, hearing loss may not occur until after they have retired or left the workplace where the damage was sustained—either by a single event or by years of exposure to high noise levels. Whether a current employee or a retired worker, you have a right to pursue a hearing loss case if you believe you employment conditions to be the cause of your hearing loss.

How Can We Help You?

At SWLA Injury Attorneys, we recognize the challenges you face after being diagnosed with workplace-related hearing loss. Our experienced attorneys guide you through the workers’ compensation process with care and understanding. We’re dedicated to defending your rights and holding the responsible parties accountable for your injuries. With a history of successful workers’ compensation cases, we’re here to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Turning Quiet Struggles Into Amplified Victories

Hearing loss often manifests as quiet struggles — whispered conversations missed, muted laughter, and the soft hum of life growing fainter. We’re converting the silent hardships faced by those with work-related hearing loss into legal triumphs with expertise, compassion, and determination. Our expert local attorneys help victims of workplace-related hearing loss to find their voice in the pursuit of justice and rightful compensation.

Hearing Loss
FAQ’s

What qualifies as workplace-related hearing loss?

Workplace-related hearing loss, often called occupational hearing loss, refers to a deterioration or loss of hearing that is correlated to conditions or events within a work environment. This type of hearing loss occurs when exposed to loud noises, such as machinery, equipment, or even certain explosive sounds, over an extended period. Such hearing impairment might be temporary or permanent, affecting one or both ears.

While immediate exposure to extremely loud noises can result in sudden hearing damage, most cases develop gradually as a result of consistent exposure to noise levels above safe thresholds. Apart from noise-induced hearing loss, certain chemicals and toxins present in some workplaces can also cause auditory damage. It’s essential to differentiate between hearing loss caused by job-related factors and loss due to external factors, such as age, illnesses, or non-work-related incidents when claiming compensation.

How can I prove my hearing loss is related to my job?

To prove that your hearing loss is job-related, start with a comprehensive hearing test by an audiologist or otolaryngologist to identify the type and extent of your hearing impairment. Then, gather evidence of your exposure to harmful noise or ototoxic substances at work, such as equipment logs or safety reports. Statements from coworkers about the loud work environment or their own hearing issues can further support your claim. Highlighting minimal noise exposure outside of work can also help. A local lawyer who is experienced in workplace hearing loss claims can help gather the necessary evidence for your claim.

How long do I have to file a claim for work-related hearing loss in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for workers’ compensation claims – including those for work-related hearing loss – is generally one year. This means that you have one year from the date you become aware of the hearing loss and its link to your job to file a claim. It’s essential to be mindful of this deadline, as failure to file within this timeframe can result in the loss of your right to claim benefits. Given the nuances of each case and the importance of timely filing, consulting with SWLA Injury Attorneys can provide clarity and guidance.

What compensation can I expect from a hearing loss claim?

If your occupational hearing loss claim is accepted, you may be entitled to benefits under workers’ compensation laws. These include medical expenses related to hearing loss, including diagnostic tests, treatments, and hearing aids. If your hearing loss impacts your ability to work, you could receive a portion of your lost wages. The exact amount of compensation depends on the severity of the hearing loss, its impact on your employment, and other case-specific factors.

Are there specific jobs known for higher risks of hearing loss?
Yes, certain professions inherently expose workers to a higher risk of hearing loss due to regular contact with loud environments or machinery. Jobs in industries such as oil and gas drilling, shipbuilding, manufacturing, construction, and forestry often involve consistent noise exposure. Additionally, professions like musicians, airport ground staff, and law enforcement officers, especially those involved in shooting range training, can also be at an elevated risk. Workers in high-risk jobs need to implement protective measures such as noise-canceling earmuffs and other protective devices.
What tests or evidence do I need to support my hearing loss claim?
To support your hearing loss claim, you’ll need a comprehensive audiogram conducted by a licensed audiologist or otolaryngologist, which details the extent and nature of your hearing impairment. This test should be accompanied by a professional opinion linking the hearing loss to workplace exposure. Documentation of workplace conditions, such as noise level measurements, equipment logs, or safety reports, can strengthen your claim. Additionally, testimonies from coworkers or records showing the consistent use of loud machinery can provide context. Having a clear timeline that shows the progression of the hearing loss concerning job roles or tasks can also be beneficial to your claim.
Can I file a claim if I already had some level of hearing impairment before starting the job?
Yes, even if you had a pre-existing level of hearing impairment before starting a job, you can still file a claim if your employment worsened your hearing condition. However, it’s essential to show that workplace conditions or specific incidents at work contributed to a noticeable deterioration of your hearing. Medical evaluations comparing prior and current hearing levels, along with professional opinions linking the worsening to job-related factors, will be crucial evidence. Consult with SWLA Injury Attorneys to navigate the complexities of claims involving pre-existing conditions and occupational hearing loss.