What you need to know about filing for workers’ compensation if you’re in a union
Labor unions have had a significant impact on labor relations throughout the country over the past few years, including Georgia. These organized groups of workers typically represent workers within a specific occupation or trade. As such, they offer the benefit of collective bargaining to improve workers’ conditions and rights. In the past, labor unions have fought for such improvements as a 40-hour workweek and more.
In the state of Georgia, there are more than 4 million workers. Even so, only a small percentage of those workers are represented by a labor union. In fact, less than 5 percent of workers in Georgia are involved in a labor union. This means there are less than 200,000 employees in Georgia who are members of a labor union.
There are currently more than 400 labor unions in Georgia. Many of those labor unions are most active in the city of Atlanta.
How does union membership impact how you file a workers’ comp claim?
Labor union members may have questions regarding how their membership can affect workers’ compensation in Georgia. If you’re a member of a labor union, it’s important to understand how being a union member can impact the way you file a workers’ comp claim and recover workers’ comp benefits.
First, it’s important to understand that when it comes to workers comp and labor unions, union members DO have the right to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. However, a union worker hurt on the job may have a different benefit package than a non-union member.
For instance, if you’re unable to perform your regular job due to a disability incurred as a result of a job injury, you may be eligible for “light-duty” work as part of your union contract. Under this clause, the employer would be required to accept you back as an employee by providing a light-duty job that you can comfortably do despite your injury. This might not necessarily be the case for a non-union employer.
Union dues and Georgia workers’ compensation
In most cases, union workers pay a fee known as a union due in order to be a member of the union. In exchange for that fee, members receive union support in negotiating better wages and working conditions. Despite paying union dues, union members still have the right to be covered by workers’ compensation. This means that employers are still required to provide coverage for each eligible worker even if that worker is a union member.
There are some differences when it comes to workers’ compensation claims and unions. For instance, union workers may be more aware of their rights when it comes to filing workers’ compensation claims than non-union workers. Additionally, union members may also be able to tap into additional support to ensure they’re able to receive their benefits.
Steps for filing a workers’ comp claim
It’s important to understand the steps associated with filing a workers’ compensation claim if you’re a union member. The first step is to inform your employer of your injury. In your initial report, you should include as much information as possible regarding the incident. You may also be required to complete the necessary forms to begin a claim with the state.
Additionally, you should obtain medical attention from approved medical providers. Regardless of whether you’re in a union or not, these steps should be followed. Remember that failing to file the appropriate paperwork can have a significant impact on your workers’ compensation claim and could even cause it to be denied.
If you are a union member, you should contact your union representative. This would also be a good time to consider contacting an experienced Georgia workers’ comp attorney to assist you with the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Speaking with a qualified workers’ comp attorney early on can give you the peace of mind that your claim will meet all the necessary criteria. This is especially important if you believe your medical care may not be satisfactory or if you think you might need medical attention from a physician outside your union’s network.
Working with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can also be beneficial if you’re having difficulty receiving benefits. An experienced attorney can investigate your injury and build a case to either prevent denial of benefits or appeal a denial of benefits.
Keep in mind that even if your initial claim is denied, this doesn’t mean that you won’t receive benefits. It simply means that you may need some additional help.
