The music industry is a powerful force. From pop to rock to classical, more people now enjoy strong careers in the music industry than ever before in history. However, even the music industry has its flaws. Though unions like the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) work to protect professional musicians from unsafe conditions, occasionally unexpected injuries can arise. If you are an AFM member and were injured while working, then you may be eligible for compensation for your medical costs with workers’ compensation. Continue below to learn more about AFM and how you can get started filing for workers’ comp. The American Federation of Musicians AFM began as the “National League of Musicians” in Cincinnati in 1896. It was initially dedicated to protecting classical musicians in search of fair wages and working conditions, which was not standardized in the industry at the time. After over a century of continued improvements (and the rise of uncountable genres of new music), AFM now represents over 75,000 professional musicians of all kinds in both America and Canada. Potential Injuries as a Musician Most people assume that safety wouldn’t be an issue for those who work in the music industry. However, this assumption is likely part of the reason why certain safety concerns are overlooked, leading to occasional injuries for AFM professionals. There are any number of unexpected single accidents that can affect musicians. Maybe you’re preparing your music stand in the orchestra pit when the stage light maintenance worker drops a tool onto you. Maybe you’re in a sweltering recording studio for hours when the heat finally gets to you, causing you to pass out and fall. Maybe you’re on stage when a bundle of unmarked wires causes you to trip and hit the stage. All of these incidents may result in concussions, cuts, bruises, broken bones, or internal damage, all of which are worth applying to workers’ compensation. Preparing for Your Claim In the period after your accident, it is understandable to be confused or stressed. However, this period is crucial for keeping evidence and recording what happened during the accident. Do you best to thoroughly complete each of the following steps: Prepare medical information. Include copies of test results, doctors’ notes, and all medical bills. This will help your employer see the extent of your injuries, and also demonstrate how much you will require in compensation. Write a personal statement. Explain everything that happened in the moments leading up to the accident, during the accident, and after the accident. Explain why you believe you were injures this way, and any other details that may help explain your position. Take photos. Photos are the best, most objective way to support your statement with hard facts. Especially if you can photograph the scene of the accident close to the event, this may greatly help your claim. Gather witness statements. If any coworkers, audience members, or customers were present during the accident, try to have them give a statement similar to your own to help support your claim. Inform your employer and an AFM representative that you will be filing a claim. Depending on your employer, there may be a different process required to go about filing workers’ comp. However, this notification will officially kickstart the process and allow you to begin working towards repayment. Considering a Workers’ Compensation Attorney AFM will do its best to fight for you throughout the compensation process. However, when it comes to filing a claim, building a strong case, and negotiating with your employer’s insurance, there is no better person suited for the job than a workers’ comp attorney. An attorney's legal experience can eliminate the risk of making mistakes during the claim or negotiation process, ensuring that you can get proper compensation for your accident. Helpful Resources: How unions can help your workers' comp claim Get legal assistance with your claim Disclaimer: The content of this article is purely informative and should not be construed as official legal advice. If you file a claim against your employer or another party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.*
