Hearing and Vision Loss Attorney in Vero Beach, Florida

Most people don’t realize how much they rely on their hearing and vision until something happens to their sensory functions. Both hearing and vision play a critical role in anyone’s life, so when they lose it—their life won’t be the same anymore. Unfortunately, hearing and vision loss is not as uncommon as one might think, and workers in certain industries are especially at risk.  

If you or your loved one lost either of these senses due to your job duties or work conditions, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.

As a workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Office of Olivia Devonmille, P.A., I know injuries that impact vital sensory functions can affect the victim’s life in numerous ways. That’s why I help workers in Vero Beach and throughout greater Indian River County to get the financial help they need to make their lives a little easier and move on.  

Causes of Vision and Hearing Loss at Work 

While workers in certain occupations are more prone to losing vital sensory functions than others, an accident that causes vision or hearing loss can happen to anyone and at any workplace. Below is an overview of some of the most common factors that cause people to lose vision and hearing at work:  

Noise Exposure 

Noise exposure can be a result of working in loud environments, such as construction sites, factories, or manufacturing plants. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, leading to permanent hearing impairment.  

Trauma 

Trauma can occur from direct impact or injury while working, such as an object striking your eye or head. In many instances, a sudden trauma can lead to immediate and irreversible damage, severely impacting a person’s ability to function effectively in their role. 

Chemical Exposure 

Chemical exposure is not just limited to hazardous materials, as even everyday substances can contribute to hearing and vision loss. For instance, certain solvents and chemicals used in various industries can cause permanent damage if they come in contact with the eyes or ears. 

Debris from Wood, Metals, Glass, etc. 

Workers in industries like construction and manufacturing often face hazards from debris. Small particles, whether from wood, metal, or glass, can easily become projectiles during an accident. Such debris can cause severe injuries to the eyes or contribute to hearing loss if debris impacts the auditory system.  

Machinery Accidents 

Accidents involving heavy equipment can result in catastrophic injuries, including damage to one’s hearing or vision. Workers must be trained in the safe operation of machinery and understand the potential risks involved. 

Exposure to Harmful Substances and Toxic Chemicals 

Some industries expose employees to toxic chemicals that can lead to both hearing and vision impairment. These substances may not only harm the body over time but can also lead to debilitating conditions that affect one’s overall quality of life. 

Prolonged Exposure to Bright Lights 

In jobs where workers are exposed to bright lights for extended periods, such as welding or in laboratories, the risk of vision loss increases significantly. Over time, prolonged exposure can damage the retina and lead to severe eyesight problems. 

Explosions 

Explosions are catastrophic events that can result in immediate and devastating injuries, including hearing and vision loss. The loud noise from an explosion can cause instant hearing damage, while the force can lead to traumatic eye injuries.  

Common Hearing and Vision Loss Injuries

When discussing hearing loss injuries, you need to recognize the various conditions that can result from workplace exposure. A list of common hearing loss injuries includes:  

• Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) 

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) 

• Auditory processing disorders 

• Ear infections due to environmental factors 

• Acoustic trauma from sudden loud sounds 

• Barotrauma from pressure changes (e.g., in deep-sea environments) 

• Ototoxicity from exposure to certain chemicals 

• Ear canal damage from foreign objects or trauma 

• Age-related hearing loss exacerbated by occupational noise 

• Chronic otitis media from workplace irritants 

Just as with hearing loss, there are various types of injuries that can lead to vision impairment in the workplace. Here is a list of common vision loss injuries: 

• Chemical burns from hazardous substances 

• Corneal abrasions from debris or projectiles 

• Retinal detachment due to trauma 

• Cataracts influenced by prolonged exposure to UV light 

• Glaucoma from harmful chemicals 

• Macular degeneration exacerbated by bright lights 

• Vision impairment from repetitive strain injuries 

• Intraocular pressure increase from various environmental factors 

• Eye infections caused by workplace contaminants 

• Loss of visual acuity due to long-term exposure to screens 

If you were diagnosed with any of these or other conditions, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if the condition is related to your performance of job duties. However, you might need legal help from a Vero Beach hearing and vision loss attorney to prove the link between the condition and your work.  

Why Choose Law Office of Olivia Devonmille, P.A.?

When it comes to choosing a workers’ compensation attorney, you want someone with proven experience and a track record of success. At Law Office of Olivia Devonmille, P.A., I pride myself on the following qualities and achievements: 

• Former workers' compensation judge: My background as a former workers' compensation judge gives me unique insight into how cases are evaluated and settled. This experience allows me to anticipate potential obstacles and overcome them effectively in clients’ cases.  

• Responsiveness: I understand the importance of communication with clients. I am always available to address your concerns and provide updates on your case.  

• Compassionate approach: At my firm, I prioritize compassionate client care. I understand the emotional toll that hearing and vision loss injuries can take, and I am here to support you every step of the way. 

• Recognized excellence: I have received notable accolades, including the Martindale Hubbell AV Preeminent Attorney accolade and the "Above and Beyond" Award from Florida Workers' Advocates. These recognitions reflect my commitment to excellence in representing clients. 

• Meritorious Public Service Award: I was honored with the Meritorious Public Service Award from The Florida Bar, reaffirming my dedication to advocating for worker rights and providing high-quality legal representation. 

Having previously represented workers who suffered hearing and vision loss, I understand how debilitating these injuries can be and how they can affect victims both personally and professionally. My goal—here at Law Office of Olivia Devonmille, P.A.—is to ensure that you can get back to enjoying your life as much as possible, and this can be done through obtaining the workers’ comp benefits you deserve.  

As a Vero Beach hearing and vision loss attorney at Law Office of Olivia Devonmille, P.A., I serve injured workers throughout the greater Indian River County as well as other parts of Florida, including Melbourne, Port St. Lucie, Palm Bay, Viera, Sebastian, and Fort Pierce.