How Does the Presence of a Union Affect Workers’ Compensation?

Union membership has always been a contentious issue in the business and political arena. However, for workers injured on the job, being in a union could make a difference in their compensation. Unions are known to protect the interests of the working class, which includes helping injured workers access and secure workers’ compensation. This article will explore how the presence of unions affects workers’ compensation.

Importance of Unions

Unions play an essential role in advocating for the rights of the workers. They work closely with employees and employers to negotiate contracts and agreements covering pay, benefits, and working conditions. When workers are injured on the job, unions can ensure that their members get the necessary medical care and financial support.

Additionally, unions function as watchdogs, ensuring that employers conform to safety standards and workers’ compensation policies.

Advantages of Being a Union Member

Union members generally receive more comprehensive compensation packages and enjoy better working conditions than non-unionized workers. They also have more say in negotiations and have more job security.

Furthermore, unions offer educational resources to members to empower them to be more informed about their rights and to take action when necessary.

Impact of Unions on Workers’ Compensation

The presence of a union can significantly improve the level of compensation that injured workers receive.

Unions have the experience and expertise to negotiate with insurers and employers to ensure that healing injured workers are not denied compensation or under-compensated. They are aggressive in pursuing litigation and in negotiating higher settlements on behalf of injured union members.

Unions and Litigation

Injured workers often need to file lawsuits to get the compensation they deserve. Unions not only provide technical assistance and legal representation but also help finance these lawsuits. They work hard to make sure that injured workers’ cases are heard in court and that they get as much compensation as is legally possible.

Why Injury Prevention is Key

While unions play an essential role in workers’ compensation, the best solution is prevention. Employers can create a safer workplace by adhering to industry standards, and ensuring that workers have proper training, are alert while working, and have access to protective gear. Prevention can minimize the number of accidents and significantly reduce the likelihood of workers’ compensation issues.

Being injured on the job is a difficult and stressful time for any worker. However, understanding how unions can affect workers’ compensation can help injury victims obtain complete compensation and reap the benefits of being a union member.

The presence of a union can significantly increase the chances of injured workers receiving the comprehensive compensation they need to recover their health and settle their financial obligations. Ultimately, unions pose a significant advantage for employees. Taking the necessary steps to join one can give them additional support in case of injury.

For more information about your membership in a union and how it affects workers’ compensation or to schedule a consultation to discuss your situation, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.