Hearing loss is one of the most common workplace injuries, yet many workers never report it. If you work in construction, manufacturing or logging in Maine, you may already be experiencing its effects.
What is occupational hearing loss?
Occupational hearing loss develops gradually from long-term exposure to loud noise at work. Over years of operating heavy machinery or power tools, the noise slowly damages the tiny cells inside your ears. Unlike a sudden injury, this type of loss builds quietly over time. Many workers usually dismiss it as a normal part of getting older, but it may actually be a work-related condition.
Is it covered under workers’ compensation?
Fortunately, Maine law does cover this condition. Under the state’s Occupational Disease Law, sensorineural hearing loss caused by prolonged workplace noise qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits. This means your condition is not something you have to face on your own.
What benefits can you claim?
If the workers’ compensation board approves your claim, Maine workers’ compensation provides several types of support to help you manage your condition. Here is a breakdown of the benefits available to you:
- Medical care: You receive full coverage for diagnostic testing, doctor visits and any treatments related to your hearing loss.
- Assistive devices: Maine workers’ compensation covers the cost of hearing aids or cochlear implants, including ongoing maintenance and replacement batteries.
- Wage replacement: If you miss work due to ear-related medical procedures, you may qualify for disability payments during your recovery.
These benefits cover both your medical needs and your financial stability while you recover. With a clearer picture of what you can claim, it also helps to understand how Maine law determines your compensation amount.
How permanent disability benefits are calculated
Beyond the types of benefits available, state law also sets specific rules for how much you can receive for permanent hearing loss. Maine typically sets your weekly compensation at two-thirds of your average weekly wage. The total number of weeks you receive payments depends on the extent of your hearing loss. Here is how the calculations break down:
- Total deafness in one ear: You receive compensation for 50 weeks at your weekly compensation rate.
- Total deafness in both ears: You receive compensation for 200 weeks at your weekly compensation rate.
- Partial hearing loss: Your compensation reflects the percentage of hearing loss you have experienced.
Hence, understanding how Maine law calculates these figures can help you set realistic expectations for your claim. However, getting the full amount you deserve is not always straightforward, which is why knowing your next steps matters.
Fight for the coverage you deserve
Filing a hearing loss claim can be difficult. Insurance companies often blame hearing loss on aging or outside hobbies rather than workplace conditions. This is why having a knowledgeable legal professional on your side can help you understand your rights and explore your options. With the right guidance, you can take informed steps toward the benefits you have earned.