Public transit is one of the most important industries in America. Without the hundreds of thousands of workers that dedicate their careers to transit-related fields, we would not have access to the majority of amenities we enjoy today. Unfortunately, for few unlucky transit workers, work accidents can result in injuries that cause physical and financial strain. Thankfully, both the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) and workers’ compensation law exist to protect workers like these from the costs of an unexpected accident. Continue below to see if your work injury as a member of ATU may qualify you for compensation from your employer. Union Profile: ATU The Amalgamated Transit Union was initially a union of street rail employees working in newly-designed modes of public transit in the 1890’s. As public transportation evolved, so too did the union as well as it’s member base. Today, ATU is the largest labor organization in the US and Canada representing public transit workers, with over 190,000 current active members. Member careers range from bus and subway operators to emergency medical service personnel, and even extend to baggage handlers and maintenance workers. Potential Injuries as a Transit Employee Because a wide range of careers are necessary to keep public transit running smoothly, there are a variety of situations that can lead to an ATU employee injury. Examples include: Slips, trips and falls: Those whose jobs involve lifting or working with heavy/dangerous goods (bags, maintenance supplies) are more prone to dangerous falls. These can result in sprains, broken bones, concussions, or worse if not properly treated. Car accidents: Bus, van, and emergency drivers are just as susceptible to accidents on the road as anyone else driving a car. Sometimes, no amount of reaction time or preparation can prevent an accident caused by another driver, which can result in a variety of injuries depending on the severity of the accident. Long-term injuries: All public transit workers, whether they be drivers, fixers, or movers, are susceptible to long-term injuries. Especially if working conditions are not ideal, repetitive activities like bending down to fix railways or sitting for full shifts each day can result in back pain, neck pain, joint pain, or accelerated symptoms of other disorders. Preparing for Your Workers' Comp Claim The most important part of filing a workers’ compensation claim is providing evidence of your injury and the reasons how/why that injury was caused at work. Start by writing down everything you know about what happened. If your injury was caused by a single event, include details of what you were doing before the accident, what happened during the accident, and what you think caused it. If your incident was caused over time, start at the very beginning when you first started noticing symptoms, and trace the development over time to explain your current condition. Next, include evidence supporting this statement. Start with compiling medical evidence, including all diagnoses, bills, and doctor’s notes. Then, include evidence from the accident (or site of your continued injury) by providing photographs and/or statements from coworkers or customers that were present during the incident. Once this is prepared, you are ready to start the workers’ comp process. Contact an ATU representative to discuss the best method of moving forward with your case, depending on their relationship to your employer. Consider Working With Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Even a large, experienced union like ATU cannot give the legal advice and support of a workers’ compensation attorney. To avoid the legalities and stress that may come with your claim, consider getting the help of an attorney that can make sure your claim is strong and correctly-filed. Workers’ comp attorneys can make a world of difference, from your initial claim to the potential negotiations down-the-line that you may need to make with your employer. For the best chance at getting compensation, consider a free consultation with an attorney in your area. Helpful Resources Hurt as a tractor-trailer driver? Hurt as a delivery driver? Hurt as a shuttle bus driver? 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.
