Though flying seemed like a mere pipe dream a few centuries ago, today it has almost completely replaced the traditional railroads we once relied on. Now, Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) alone represents tens of thousands of licensed pilots across North America. While being a pilot is the dream career for many ALPA members, the job does not come without its potential hazards. For those who are injured while on the job, both ALPA and workers’ compensation may be able to help you get the financial repayment you deserve for the costs of your injury. Additional Information About the ALPA ALPA was originally founded in 1931 as a union to regulate pilot working hours, standards, and pay across different airlines. It has grown exponentially since this time, now representing over 30 major airlines such as Delta, JetBlue, Virgin America, and FedEx Express. With a rotating presidency system and continually updated standards, the 57,000 pilots that work under this union continue to benefit from the ever-growing support ALPA works to maintain. Potential Injuries While Working as a Pilot It may be difficult to consider what situations pilot may experience that could cause severe injury. However, like truck driving or other long-term commuting work, the majority of injured pilots experience long-term injuries that grow increasingly severe over time if untreated. For instance, say you have been a pilot for over 20 years. Over these years, you have piloted thousands of flights from the same sitting position. However, at the beginning of your career, your seat was far less padded and capable of providing proper support, especially during long flights. Now, you experience severe back and neck pain with muscle spasms that prevent your ability to work efficiently and safely. In this case, it is possible that you may qualify for workers’ compensation, which could refund any past, current, and/or upcoming medical expenses related to your injury while on the job. Necessary Steps Towards Achieving Workers' Comp 1. Get an official diagnosis from a doctor. It will be extremely difficult to get financial support from your employer without an official diagnosis. Get whatever tests necessary to classify your condition, and save all bills to include on your claim. 2. Write down everything you know about your injury from the very beginning. Even if your injury had roots years ago, start at the very beginning. Explain how it began, how it has worsened over time, and all of the many ways it affects your current daily life. The more details you provide, the more likely your employer will understand the situation and be willing to provide compensation. 3. Contact ALPA to discuss how to move forward. Depending on your employer’s relationship with ALPA, there may be different procedures necessary to begin the workers’ comp process. Speak with a union representative who can help you start the process, and who can speak with your employer with you so they are aware that you will be filing. Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Workers’ compensation attorneys are especially useful for cases where an injury cannot be traced to a single incident. Your employer may be hesitant to help you at first, especially if any legal or formatting mistakes are made when filing your first claim. To keep this from happening, consider getting help from a workers’ comp attorney. They can build you a strong case, work with your union, and negotiate with your employer to make sure that you get the best compensation possible for your injury. Additional Resources Injured working for American Eagle? Injured working for US Airways? Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against your employer, or another party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
