The Overlooked Challenges Union Members Face After an Accident

Car accidents can disrupt anyone’s life — but for union workers in Michigan, the consequences often extend beyond medical bills and car repairs. Many union members in Troy, Sterling Heights, Royal Oak, and surrounding areas work in physically demanding industries such as construction, manufacturing, and public service. An injury can mean the loss of wages, overtime opportunities, and even the risk of losing hard-earned benefits.

Unlike non-union employees, union workers often have benefits tied to their ability to work and meet certain hour thresholds. A serious injury can put pension contributions, healthcare coverage, and disability benefits in jeopardy. That’s why it’s critical to have a Michigan personal injury attorney who understands both car accident law and the unique protections within union contracts.

How Car Accident Injuries Affect Union Benefits

Union contracts often provide enhanced healthcare coverage, negotiated disability pay, and specific job protections. However, these benefits can be complicated to access if you’re injured and unable to work for an extended period. If your accident happened while driving to or from a job site, delivering materials, or traveling for union-related work, there may be additional layers of compensation available through workers’ comp or other benefits programs.

A skilled Michigan personal injury lawyer can coordinate your injury claim with your union representatives. This ensures that lost wages, missed pension contributions, and health coverage gaps are accounted for in your settlement demand — protecting both your short-term recovery and long-term financial stability.

Why Union Workers Need Attorneys Who Understand Their Contracts

Not all attorneys have experience working with unionized clients. The right Michigan car accident attorney will understand how to navigate collective bargaining agreements, medical leave provisions, and how settlements interact with union disability or health insurance programs. Without this experience, an attorney could leave valuable compensation on the table.

For example, a factory worker in Clinton Township who suffers a back injury in a collision may face months off the job. A knowledgeable attorney will not only pursue the driver who caused the crash but also secure coverage for the worker’s full lost wages, long-term treatment, and union benefit protections.

The Legal Process and Why Timing Matters

Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws require certain steps to be taken quickly after a crash. For most car accident cases, you have a limited window to file a claim and notify your employer or union. Waiting too long could jeopardize both your legal case and your eligibility for certain benefits.
Union members in Warren, Rochester Hills, and other nearby cities should reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident.

Taking the First Step Toward Recovery

If you’re a union member injured in a Michigan car accident, your recovery depends on more than just medical treatment — it’s about securing your future. By working with a personal injury lawyer who understands union contracts, you can ensure your case is handled with both your health and your career in mind.

Call our Michigan personal injury team today for a free consultation and let us protect your rights, your benefits, and your financial future.

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