Healthcare Worker Injured in Tennessee?
Last updated: 2026 · Verified against Tennessee DWC regulations
Reviewed by: James R. Holloway, Esq.
Workers' Compensation Attorney · CA Bar #248701 · 14 yrs exp.
Last reviewed: January 2026 · Verified against state DWC regulations
Find out what your occupational hearing loss claim is worth. Tennessee workers typically receive $7,000–$60,000. Free, no-obligation assessment.
$7,000
Avg low
$60,000
Avg high
1 year
Deadline
Pre-filled for your situation — just add your wage & impairment info.
Tell us about your work
Your estimated weekly TTD benefit: $533/week
67%
of avg weekly wage (TTD)
$1,116
max weekly benefit
20%
typical attorney fee
1
filing deadline
Tennessee Workers' Comp Law — Key Facts
Governing statute: T.C.A. § 50-6-101 et seq.
TTD rate: 67% of average weekly wage
Maximum weekly benefit: $1,116
Statute of limitations: 1 year from injury
Filing deadline: Report to employer within 15 days
Key features of Tennessee's system:
- ✓ Court of Workers' Compensation Claims (dedicated court system)
- ✓ AMA 6th Edition for impairment ratings
- ✓ Mandatory mediation before trial
Tennessee's Bureau of Workers' Compensation was substantially reformed in 2013 with the Tennessee Workers' Compensation Reform Act. The Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) administers the system, with a new Court of Workers' Compensation Claims replacing the former circuit court system. Tennessee uses AMA Guides, 6th Edition for impairment ratings. Attorney fees are limited to 20% of awarded benefits.
What to Expect with Occupational Hearing Loss in Tennessee
15%
Average impairment rating
$8,000
Average medical costs
Occupational hearing loss (OHL) is one of the most prevalent occupational diseases in the United States, affecting millions of workers exposed to sustained noise levels above 85 dBA. It is sensorineural — caused by damage to the cochlear hair cells — and is irreversible. OSHA requires hearing conservation programs (29 CFR 1910.95) for workers exposed above 85 dBA. OHL is typically a cumulative injury, meaning claims are calculated based on the total hearing loss after the occupational exposure period. Most states treat OHL under scheduled-loss provisions. New York allows up to 150 weeks for bilateral hearing loss. Baseline audiograms at hire and annual monitoring audiograms are the critical evidence — the shift in hearing threshold over employment demonstrates causation. Tinnitus is frequently associated with OHL and may be separately compensable in some states.
Common treatments
- ✓ Hearing aids (binaural fitting)
- ✓ Cochlear implant evaluation (severe-to-profound loss)
- ✓ Auditory rehabilitation and aural training
- ✓ Tinnitus management (sound therapy, CBT)
- ✓ Protection against further exposure
- ✓ Communication strategy training
Documentation needed
- ✓ Baseline and serial audiometric test results
- ✓ Otolaryngologist (ENT) evaluation
- ✓ Noise exposure history and noise level measurements (sound level meter data)
- ✓ OSHA compliance records for hearing conservation program
- ✓ Duration and intensity of occupational noise exposure
- ✓ Independent audiological evaluation for impairment rating
Frequently asked questions
How is occupational hearing loss compensation calculated in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, your weekly benefit is 67% of your average weekly wage, capped at $1,116. Permanent disability is calculated based on your impairment rating.
What is the average occupational hearing loss settlement in Tennessee?
Tennessee workers with occupational hearing loss typically settle between $7,000 and $60,000, depending on impairment rating, treatment costs, and lost wages.
How long do I have to file a workers' comp claim in Tennessee?
1 year from injury. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim. Contact a workers' comp attorney as soon as possible.
Do I need a lawyer for a workers' comp claim in Tennessee?
You are not required to have an attorney, but representation significantly increases average settlement amounts. Most workers' comp attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless you win. Typical fees are 20% of settlement.
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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual compensation depends on the specific facts of your case, your state's workers' compensation laws, and the outcome of any proceedings. Always consult a licensed workers' compensation attorney in your state.