Why Michigan Workers Trust Us
Workers’ compensation is all we do. From denied claims to complex cases, we’ve helped thousands of injured workers recover the benefits they deserve.
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Maximizing Your Compensation
We understand workers’ comp and SSDI laws inside and out, ensuring you receive the maximum benefits available.
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Statewide Representation
Based in Flint, we serve clients across Michigan, offering home visits when injuries prevent travel.
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Experienced in Every Industry
From auto workers to healthcare professionals, we’ve successfully handled cases across all fields and injury types.
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Free Consultation, No Risk
Not sure where to start? We offer free consultations to review your case and explain your options - no obligation, just answers.
Unique Workers’ Compensation Challenges for Flint Union Employees
Michigan union workers have the same right to workers’ compensation benefits as non-union workers. However, the presence of a union contract (collective bargaining agreement, or CBA) and the specific nature of your employment can create unique challenges.
Many unions operate within the state, from the United Auto Workers (UAW) to the Teamsters Local 332, Iron Workers Local 25, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and more.
The obstacles you may face as a union worker when pursuing workers’ compensation claims can include but are not limited to the following.
Conflicts Between the Union Contract & Workers’ Compensation Law
- CBA terms vs. state law: Some union contracts include provisions related to workplace injuries, such as additional sick leave, disability benefits, or return-to-work policies. These provisions can sometimes conflict with Michigan workers’ compensation laws, leading to confusion about which benefits apply.
- Mandatory arbitration or grievance procedures: Some CBAs require union members to follow internal dispute resolution processes before filing a formal workers’ comp claim, which could delay or complicate the process.
Employer Pushback & Pressure to Return to Work
- Modified duty pressures: Employers may use union-negotiated return-to-work provisions to push injured union workers into “light-duty” positions before they are medically ready.
- Job security concerns: Some union workers fear retaliation or reassignment to a less favorable position if they file a claim, even if the law prohibits such actions.
- Pressure from both employer and union leadership: In some cases, both the employer and the union leadership may discourage a workers’ comp claim if it conflicts with union agreements, job stability, or contract negotiations.
The Complexity of Dual Benefits (Workers’ Comp vs. Union Disability)
- Overlap of benefits: Many union workers receive additional disability benefits (short-term or long-term) as part of their union-negotiated benefits package. This can create confusion about whether they should file for workers’ compensation or rely on union benefits.
- Offsets and reductions: If a union worker receives disability pay through the union, their workers’ compensation benefits may be reduced to prevent “double-dipping.”
- Navigating multiple claims: Union workers may need to coordinate their union benefits, employer benefits, and state workers’ compensation, a complex process requiring careful legal guidance.
Challenges with Medical Treatment & Approved Providers
- Employer-designated doctors: Michigan law allows employers to choose the worker’s doctor for the first 28 days after an injury. Some union CBAs may have separate healthcare agreements, which could complicate medical care decisions.
- Disputes over permanent disability ratings: If a union worker’s doctor and the workers’ compensation insurer’s doctor disagree, it may lead to legal battles over the severity of the injury and benefit eligibility.
Overall, if the union and employer have an established relationship, injured workers may feel pressure to “go along” with union-negotiated return-to-work policies rather than pursuing a full workers’ compensation claim.
How Steele & Ferguson, P.C. Can Help Union Workers in Flint & Statewide
Securing the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve as a union worker can be daunting, especially with the complexities of collective bargaining agreements and the unique dynamics between unions and employers.
With a deep understanding of Michigan’s workers’ compensation laws and the nuances of union protocols, our team can help you navigate the claims process while respecting union agreements. We can help clarify your rights; understanding the relationship between your CBA and Michigan workers’ compensation laws is crucial.
We are skilled in resolving disputes with employers or insurers who may resist claims or try to undervalue injuries. Whether addressing challenges related to proving the injury’s work-related nature, disputes over contract terms, or delays in receiving benefits, our advocacy can make a difference in the outcome of your case.
We work to maximize wage loss compensation, medical treatment, and rehabilitation benefits for all our clients.
Discuss your case with a Flint union workers’ compensation lawyer by contacting us at (810) 645-9147 today.
