Threlkeld v. Lee Way Motor Freight

SIMMS, Justice:

Petitioner, Thomas Threlkeld, filed a Workers’ Compensation Claim for hearing loss to both ears. Threlkeld worked for Lee Way, respondent, for 25 years. Threl-keld’s loss of hearing was due to exposure to excessive noise from diesel engines during the term of his employment with Lee Way.

Evidence was introduced at the trial court level that Threlkeld has suffered hearing loss in his left ear ranging from 25.5% to 42%, and hearing loss in his right ear ranging from 0% to 4.5%. The trial court found that Threlkeld had suffered hearing loss to the left ear of 30% and a 2% hearing…