WORKERS' COMPENSATION HEARING LOSS CLAIMS

If you are exposed to noise at work, New York State Compensation Law provides coverage for occupationally induced hearing loss and accidental hearing loss. The law compensates workers for permanent injury that prevents hearing in the range of normal conversation

How much is the claim worth?

.In New York, the current maximum award for a Worker Who has Sustained a One hundred percent (100%) hearing loss in both ears is $60,000.lf you have an overall loss of hearing of ten percent (10%) of both ears, this would entitle you to a compensation award of $6,000. If you have loss of hearing in one ear as a result of an accidental exposure such as an explosion, the maximum award is $30,000. These awards are completely tax free.

When can I make this claim?

You can make a claim for hearing loss only when you are permanently removed from the noisy environment.

How can I do that?

You can to it in two basic ways. One is to use ear protection all the time, whenever you are exposed to noise while at work. The other way is upon retirement.

Are there time limits to file?

Yes. Generally, a claim must be filed within two years of removal from the noisy environment or two years from when you discovered or should have become aware of the relationship between your hearing loss and your exposure to noise at work. Some claims must be made within ninety (90) days of this discovery.

What if I didn’t lose any time from work?

Awards for hearing loss can be paid to you EVEN IF YOU LOST NO TIME FROM WORK!

Bottom line:

Get your hearing tested just before or immediately after retirement.

Contact Jordan Ziegler, Esq. @ 800-692-3717, ext 228 for more info.