Unions and Workers’ Compensation
Union employees in Pennsylvania who are hurt on the job deserve financial compensation for their losses, including missed work hours and coverage for medical expenses. You may not be sure how the union, workers’ compensation, or a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer plays a role in this process.
A union plays a key role in advocating for safe work conditions, a comprehensive benefits package, and fair wages. Here is what you should also know about how your union membership could impact your access to workers’ compensation.
Why Choose Munley Law for Union Workers’ Compensation Matters
At Munley Law, we stand with working people. Union members form the backbone of our communities, and when you’re hurt on the job, you deserve a law firm that understands your rights and fights for every benefit you’ve earned. Our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers have a long history of advocating for union members across industries—from construction and manufacturing to transportation and healthcare. We handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery and getting back to work safely.
Munley Law has been a trusted advocate for union workers across Pennsylvania for more than 60 years. Our attorneys understand the complexities of union contracts and workers’ compensation law and know how to secure maximum benefits for injured workers. We start by providing free, no-obligation consultations so you can get answers to your questions and make a plan for what to do next.
The Role of Unions and Workers’ Compensation
Being a member of a union underscores your right to a safe workplace. Being part of a union means you have extra support and benefits negotiated for you, sometimes offering more than what workers’ compensation law alone provides. Your union may have experience with injuries related to the type of work you do, and that could help you better understand your rights, the processes, and your expectations moving forward.
Unions, Workers’ Compensation, and Collective Bargaining Agreements
Another way your union may help you and other members is through collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). These are contracts negotiated for union members with employers that provide clarity on employment terms and conditions. The topics addressed may include wages, benefits paid and provided, as well as working conditions.
Most CBAs will include provisions related to a safe work environment as well as workers’ compensation. CBAs differ across all unions and locations, and your attorney can help you verify your specific rights. However, many CBAs include provisions such as:
Guaranteed Coverage: Your CBA may require the employer to provide workers’ compensation insurance even when the state does not require it. This means the insurance covers the expenses incurred by an employee hurt at work, regardless of fault
Return-to-Work Programs: Many CBAs incorporate return-to-work programs that help workers transition back to work after sustaining an injury. Some also include training and support when it is necessary to find alternative positions within a company
Enhanced benefits: Some CBAs will also provide benefits that extend minimum workers’ compensation benefits. This may include paying a higher rate of wage replacement or extending the period for disability claims
Dispute resolution is another common area of support by a union. In some situations, a CBA will outline steps to follow when disputes arise regarding the work injury or the severity of the claim. It may include, for example, a grievance procedure that allows you to challenge a denial or limitation of claims. This agreement may help you find some resolution and support in a challenging legal matter.
Union Employee Injury Benefits
As a worker, you expect to have a safe work environment, including access to proper safety equipment, training, and necessary resources. Our Pennsylvania workers’ compensation guide offers more insight into your rights. In some situations, especially in high-risk injury positions, unions may have proactively negotiated better terms and benefits for workers hurt on the job.
Union rules and CBAs provide the most clarity in these areas. In some situations, your union employee injury benefits may include:
Supplemental payments: Providing you with short- or long-term disability benefits is not something all employers must to do. Your union may work to ensure employees have access to supplemental benefits beyond what workers’ compensation offers. This may help you have more of your expected income.
Rehabilitation: Under workers’ compensation, you may be required to go back to work as soon as your doctor releases you. Workers’ compensation may not provide for an intermediary step of getting rehabilitation after a serious injury. Unions may work to incorporate this benefit, noting the importance of easing you back to work to avoid further injury.
Legal support: There are many situations where workers’ compensation claim denials occur for preventable reasons. Some unions have workers’ compensation attorneys available to guide you in overcoming challenges to your claims.
As an employee and member of a union, workers’ compensation is still fully available to you at the state minimum requirements. Many unions strive to offer employees comprehensive coverage that extends beyond standard benefits. If you are a union member, it is worth discussing with your representative the additional benefits you have.
How Can Your Union Help You After a Workplace Accident?
If you are hurt at work, report the injury, get medical care from the appropriate provider, and file your claim. It seems straightforward, but there are often limitations and stumbling blocks that can get in your way. There are several ways your union can help you after a work injury:
Clarify what your rights are. After suffering an injury, notify your union leadership to inquire about your rights. They will help you understand what the CBA may have included that goes beyond state minimums.
Negotiate for you. Some union members may have an easier time negotiating and moving through the workers’ compensation claim process because they have support along the way. Your union leader can provide guidance throughout the process.
Less risk of retaliation. Employers cannot retaliate against you if you file a workers’ compensation claim, but some employees fail to get medical care for fear of losing their jobs. Your union can help you to explore these situations and alleviate some of those risks.
If you are hurt at work, know that your union is there to provide a foundation for your recovery. They do not take the place of hiring a workers’ compensation attorney, but they can give you insight into knowing what your rights are, so you can take confident steps in recovering fair compensation.
FAQs about PA Workers’ Compensation for Union Members
Do union members qualify for workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Union members are covered by Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system just like all other employees. In addition, your union contract may include negotiated benefits or procedures that offer extra protections or compensation.
Do I need a lawyer if my union is helping with my claim?
Even with union support, it’s wise to consult an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. Unions advocate for their members but don’t represent them legally in workers’ compensation proceedings. A lawyer ensures your rights under Pennsylvania law are fully protected and maximizes your benefits.
Do union workers get full pay in workers’ compensation in PA?
Under Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation law, a worker hurt on the job is entitled to indemnity, or wage loss benefits, equal to two-thirds of their weekly wages during the time they are out of work. Some CBAs may incorporate higher pay, but most employees do not receive full pay when they are hurt on the job.
What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. Your union may assist in this process, but having an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer on your side is crucial to ensure your appeal is properly handled and deadlines are met.
Seek Guidance from a PA Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you are facing denials or the need to appeal your claim, put an attorney from Munley Law to work on your case. Union employee injury benefits are intended to be utilized to the fullest extent permitted under the agreement. Our legal team ensures that you understand the benefits and that your employer treats you fairly.
Contact our legal team for assistance with union and workers’ compensation claims, disputes, and concerns during a free consultation. Let us fight for you to receive fair compensation.
