Hearing & Vision Loss Attorney in Anchorage, Alaska

Workplace injuries are an unfortunate yet common occurrence. In particular, vision and hearing loss may result from work-related activities and accidents. According to the CDC, 24% of hearing loss cases have resulted from workplace exposure to high decibel levels. Similarly, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports more than 20,000 cases annually result in permanent hearing loss. 

At the Law Office of Justin S. Eppler, LLC, our team has the practice, resources, and compassion to walk you through these challenging times. Also, we support the people of Anchorage, Alaska, to get the fair compensation they deserve for workplace-related hearing and vision loss. We proudly serve Fairbanks, Juneau, Wasilla, and Palmer residents in their compensation needs. 

Common Causes of Workplace Hearing Loss 

There are several common causes of workplace hearing loss, including: 

Exposure to Loud Noise 

Exposure to loud noise is one of the primary causes of hearing loss in the workplace. Workers in construction, mining, and manufacturing industries are often exposed to high noise levels, which can damage the inner ear and lead to permanent hearing loss. 

Chemical Exposure 

Exposure to certain chemicals, such as solvents and heavy metals, can damage the inner ear and cause hearing loss. Workers in the agriculture, textiles, and printing industries are often exposed to these chemicals. 

Physical Trauma 

Trauma to the head or ear can cause hearing loss. Workers in industries such as construction and transportation may be at higher risk for physical trauma. 

Infections 

Infections such as otitis media (middle ear infection) and meningitis can cause hearing loss. Infections may result from exposure to harmful chemical substances, fumes, or other airborne particles. 

Aging 

As workers age, they may experience natural hearing loss, which can be exacerbated by exposure to loud noise or other workplace factors. 

Poor Workplace Conditions 

Poor workplace practices, such as inadequate training on hearing protection or failure to enforce hearing protection requirements, can also contribute to workplace hearing loss. 

Common Causes of Workplace Vision Loss 

Workplace vision loss can occur due to several factors. The most common causes of workplace vision loss include: 

Exposure to Harmful Chemicals 

Workers in agriculture, manufacturing, and construction industries may be exposed to chemicals such as solvents, acids, and pesticides that can cause eye injuries, including vision loss. 

Eye Strain 

Workers who spend long hours working on a computer or performing tasks that require a lot of visual focus may experience eye strain, which can lead to vision problems such as blurred vision and headaches. 

Eye Trauma 

Physical trauma to the eye from flying debris, tools, or other workplace hazards can cause vision loss. 

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation 

Exposure to UV radiation from welding or other sources can cause eye damage and vision loss. 

Lack of Eye Protection 

Failure to wear appropriate eye protection such as goggles, face shields, or safety glasses can increase the risk of eye injuries and vision loss. 

Infections 

Infections such as conjunctivitis or keratitis can cause temporary or permanent vision loss if left untreated. 

Workers’ Compensation Vision and Hearing Loss Coverage in Alaska 

Workers’ compensation in Alaska does cover vision and hearing loss that occurs as a result of work-related injuries or occupational diseases. In Alaska, workers’ compensation benefits are available to eligible employees who suffer vision or hearing loss from proven work-related injury or illness. 

Also, workers’ compensation benefits cover medical expenses related to vision or hearing loss and wage replacement benefits if the worker is unable to work while they recover. In cases of permanent disability, the worker may also be entitled to disability benefits.  

It is important for workers who experience vision or hearing loss to report the injury to their employer as soon as possible and to seek medical attention. They should also file a workers’ compensation claim to ensure that they receive the benefits they are entitled to under Alaska law. 

Workers’ Compensation Awards for Hearing and Vision Loss in Alaska 

In general, workers’ compensation benefits for vision or hearing loss in Alaska may include medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. For hearing loss, the schedule of benefits in Alaska provides compensation based on the percentage of hearing loss a worker has experienced. The schedule assigns a specific number of weeks of compensation for each percentage of hearing loss, based on percentage of hearing loss. An experienced attorney can help calculate the percentage of hearing loss and compensation based on your certain circumstances. 

For vision loss, the Alaska Workers’ Compensation Schedule of Disabilities and Rehabilitation Benefits provides a specific compensation amount for each percentage of vision loss, ranging from partial vision loss to total blindness. The schedule provides compensation for both eyes separately. The compensation amounts vary based on the worker’s occupation and other factors. Contact a reliable attorney that can review your specific situation and advise you of your options when receiving compensation.