Lancaster Vision and Hearing Loss Recovery Lawyer

Work-related vision and hearing loss are common occurrences in Lancaster County and throughout Pennsylvania. Both vision and hearing loss can result from a number of workplace factors. Treatments and care associated with vision and hearing loss can be very costly and it is not uncommon for these types of work environment-related injuries to be permanent.

Causes of Vision and Hearing Losses at Work

Workers in almost any industry can sustain hearing or vision loss on the job. While workplace accidents can result in sudden injuries to hearing and vision, often hearing and vision losses occur over an extended period of time.

Vision Loss

There are many factors that can give rise to vision loss. Extremely bright lights or flying debris can result in loss of sight or diminished vision. Engaging in activities like welding without proper eye safety gear can cause eye injuries and vision loss. Exposure to chemicals and open flames can result in vision issues, as can head trauma.

Some of the most common causes of eye injury and resulting vision loss on the job are:

• Flying objects (pieces of metal, glass)
• Tools
• Particles
• Chemicals
• Harmful radiation

Hearing Loss

People who work in the manufacturing, construction and music industries are at high risk of developing hearing loss at work from repeated exposure to loud equipment or other workplace noises. Sometimes, however, an explosion or other sudden loud noise at a workplace can result in hearing loss.  Even certain chemical exposure can result in nerve damage that impacts hearing. Almost all work-related hearing loss is permanent and can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life.

Common causes of work-related hearing loss are:

• Sudden loud noises
• Exposure to loud equipment or music
• Exposure to ototoxic chemicals and solvents

How Do I Know if I’m Entitled to Receive Compensation?

In general, benefits for vision loss are awarded only in cases involving a loss of an eye or blindness, or in instances where the individual has been deemed “legally” blind. Compensation in such cases is based on a percentage of the harmed individual’s weekly pay and is paid in addition to wages and/or disability payments.

With respect to hearing loss benefits, the claim award will differ based on how the hearing was caused (i.e., if the hearing loss was caused by certain trauma as opposed to long-term exposure to loud noises). The benefit for a total hearing loss from trauma will be paid for a longer period of time than a partial hearing loss caused by long-term exposure.

Get Advice About Compensation For Vision or Hearing Loss Today

Mike Vanasse of Vanasse Law LLC is available to help you file for the benefits you are entitled to after a work-related vision or hearing loss. Vanasse Law LLC offers compassionate personalized service in a convenient location. Our offices are located just off Route 30 in Lancaster. Initial consultations with Vanasse Law LLC are free. Give us a call at 717-397-1010 or contact us online.