The ability to hear is something that many of us take for granted. But workers in many types of jobs can lose that ability. That can make it much more difficult-or not possible-to continuing working at their job. Injured workers throughout Illinois have trusted the Peru on-the-job hearing loss lawyers at Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP to help them collect the benefits they deserve.
Hearing loss can occur at any workplace in which workers are subjected to very loud noise. This can include factories, construction sites and airports. There are laws and procedures in place to protect workers from hearing loss. But accidents can still happen, and sometimes protections are not used. A worker can experience hearing loss from a sudden extremely loud noise or continued exposure to loud noise. For example:
- Machines
- Generators
- Construction equipment
- Car engines
- Airplanes
- Accidental explosion
Early symptoms of hearing loss can including ringing in the ears and having trouble hearing what people say in conversations. By the time a worker goes to a doctor, the hearing loss may be irreversible. And if the worker continues to be exposed to sources of loud noise, it will only get worse.
In some cases, hearing loss can be treated, or at least be managed. Workers in Illinois who suffered hearing loss from exposure to loud noise at the workplace are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits include full payment of all medical expenses for necessary treatment. They also include two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage while he or she is unable to work.
But the claims process can be confusing and frustrating. Employers must be notified of the hearing loss. The correct paperwork must be filed with all requested information. Deadlines must be met. There are also specific definitions for hearing loss before it can be considered a disability under state law. And employers and insurance companies can challenge your benefits.
That’s why it’s important to have an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer on your side. We have been representing injured workers in the state of Illinois for decades. Our attorneys know what it takes to file a successful claim for workers’ compensation benefits. We fight for you every step of the way.
If you have suffered hearing loss related to your job, learn more about how we can help you with your claim for benefits.
