Jackson Workplace Hearing Loss Lawyer
Of all the injuries and occupational diseases employees may sustain in the Mississippi workplace, hearing loss is one of the most life changing. The Hearing Health Foundation reports that more than 30 million workers are exposed to noise levels that exceed recommended decibels, and that up to 20,000 occupational hearing loss cases are reported annually. In fact, 1 in 4 individuals currently living in the US with loss of hearing received their injuries in the workplace.
If you suffer from hearing issues because of work-related conditions, it is important to realize that Mississippi’s workers’ compensation system pays monetary benefits to qualifying employees. Our team at Keith B. French Law can guide you through the process, which can be more challenging than you expect. Please contact us to set up a free consultation with a Jackson workplace hearing loss lawyer, and check out an overview of the laws.
Workplace Conditions and Hearing Loss
Occupational hearing loss (OHL) is typically related to one of two factors:
- Noise can cause injuries when the levels are 85 decibels or higher. Generally, if you have to raise your voice to speak to someone an arm’s length away, noise has reached unsafe levels.
- Ototoxic chemicals can make the ear more vulnerable to the effects of noise, and a person may be exposed to these substances in a variety of ways. Handling certain solvents, metals, and compounds – while also working in high noise areas – increases the potential for hearing loss. Plus, there are numerous ototoxic medications that employees may be taking, both prescription and over-the-counter.
To initiate the workers’ comp claims process, you must notify your employer about your condition right away. Your employer’s insurance company pays out monetary benefits to those who qualify, though it may be necessary to take further legal action if you run into obstacles. Our Jackson workplace hearing loss lawyer will assist in dealing with the insurer, since these companies often deny claims to protect their own interests. If the insurer refuses to pay fair benefits, we will pursue next steps through the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Benefits for Qualifying Employees
You are eligible for workers’ comp benefits if you are a covered worker who suffers hearing issues as a direct result of workplace conditions. The team at Keith B. French Law will ensure you recover the full monetary benefits you are entitled to by law, including:
- Medical costs to treat OHL, including future care that is reasonable and necessary;
- Wage replacement for days missed due to hearing loss; and
- Permanent or temporary disability payments for total or partial OHL.
Schedule a Consultation with a Jackson Workplace Hearing Loss Attorney
This summary of Mississippi workers’ comp laws is useful, but getting the benefits you deserve requires in-depth legal knowledge and experience. You can trust our team at Keith B. French Law to overcome challenges, so please contact our Jackson offices at 601-983-2667 or visit us online. We can set up a no-cost case evaluation to review your circumstances and advise you on your options.
