UPDATE: What Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits Can I Receive for Hearing Loss?

 Posted on May 18,2023 in Workers' Compensation

Originally published: October 18, 2021 -- Updated: May 18, 2023

Update: In addition to the issues described below, some workers may need to address concerns related to hearing loss that became worse due to conditions in their workplace. In cases where a person had a pre-existing condition, meaning that they already experienced some form of hearing loss before they began working for an employer or due to issues that were not related to their work, they may need to determine whether they can qualify for workers' compensation based on an aggravation of these issues.

While workers' comp will cover injuries or health issues that arose out of the work a person performed, there may be some question as to whether additional concerns related to hearing loss were work-related. For those who had some form of hearing loss, but their hearing loss became worse because of work-related factors, it will be important to demonstrate that the work they performed was responsible for the worsening of their condition. For example, a person may show that they were exposed to loud noises in the workplace and were not provided with sufficient hearing protection, and because of this, they experienced additional hearing loss.

If a person can demonstrate that the aggravation of their hearing loss was work-related, they may be able to receive workers' compensation benefits to address this issue. Workers' comp may cover any new medical treatment they received for hearing loss, including hearing aids or cochlear implants. If a person was required to miss work while receiving treatment or because of other issues related to hearing loss, they may receive temporary disability benefits. Permanent disability benefits may also be available to address the impact that the increase in hearing loss has had on a person's life and their ability to work.

Contact Our San Benito County Workers' Compensation Attorneys for Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have experienced an aggravation of hearing loss due to work-related factors, you will need to determine the steps you can take to ensure that you receive all workers' compensation benefits that may be available. At Cramer + Martinez, our Santa Clara County workers' comp lawyers can help you understand your legal rights, and we will work to ensure that you receive the proper benefits. Contact us at 408-848-1113 today to arrange a free consultation and get more information about how we can assist with your case.