Frequently Asked Questions about Union Workers Compensation in Pennsylvania
Do unions have a workers compensation plan?
Your employer, not your union, is required by law to have workers compensation insurance coverage in place in the event that you sustain a work-related injury. Your union does not provide workers compensation benefits, although at times they can negotiate for additional benefits that pay more than workers compensation benefits would pay, or for other benefits such as sickness and accident or health and welfare benefits that would be payable if your workers compensation claim is being contested.
What is a union health and welfare fund?
Some unions have a health and welfare fund, which is usually a fund that pays benefits similar to what a private health insurance company might pay, and may be a substitute for traditional health benefits. Exactly what a union health and welfare fund does and does not cover is something that your union can explain to you, and you should make yourself aware of what benefits are available.
What information can a union representative request from employers to potentially assist in a workers compensation claim?
Your union representative can assist in a workers compensation claim in a number of ways.
First, if your employer wants to meet with you to discuss matters related to your claim, possible alternative employment, or anything of that nature, you would typically have the right to have a union representative present.
At times, when employers refuse to provide an employee with documents to which they are entitled, such as an incident report that was prepared related to the injury, your union representative can help to obtain that document.
What legal help is available for union workers injured on the job?
An employee who is a member of a union and is injured on the job is entitled to the same workers compensation benefits, at a minimum, that a nonunion employee would receive. Union members can often receive additional benefits, either provided for by law or negotiated in the collective bargaining agreement. In some cases, your union may have arrangements with particular attorneys that they know are experienced and successful in handling workers compensation claims, and may even have arrangements that will provide you with discounts on the attorney fees that are charged if your case requires litigation or settles.
Who should I contact with any additional Union Workers Compensation questions?
Contact YCL Law for answers to any Union Workers Compensation questions you may have or by phone at 724-225-9130 to schedule a consultation.