Were you injured while performing your work duties? If so, you might be eligible to file a claim for workers' compensation. Workers' compensation offers medical benefits and covers a portion of lost wages while the injured worker is recovering from the work injuries. Workers' compensation claims can be complicated, but being a member of the Writers Guild of America East might help you move through the claims process. The Writers Guild of America East A labor union that has members including film and television writers as well as television and radio news employees, the union was organized in 1951. It has about 4,000 members. The union is affiliated with the Writers Guild of America West as well as the AFL-CIO, the International Federation of Journalists and International Affiliation of Writers Guilds. The union actually got its start in 1912 when 350 authors and dramatists formed the Authors' League of America. Then the organization split in 1921 and the Dramatists Guild of America for writers of radio and stage drama were formed with the Authors Guild serving magazine authors and novelists. After several divisions and different groups forming throughout the years, the Writers Guild of America was formed. Common Workplace Injuries Every job has its own inherent risks. If you are a writer, you might go to the set of filming. While there you could be struck by a falling object or you might trip and fall over something or slip because of a wet floor. Using office equipment and supplies can also have hazards. You could be shocked or electrocuted because of faulty wires or shortages. This can cause serious burns and permanent nerve and skin damage. Puncture wounds can result from staples or hole punchers. The metal wires used to bind notebooks can cause cuts and puncture wounds. A chair overturning can cause serious back injuries or cause you to hit your head and neck. You could come into contact with environmental hazards depending on your work environment as well, which could lead to asthma or breathing problems. What To Do If You Have Been Hurt On The Job If a work injury has left you unable to work, you need to know what to do to ensure you preserve the evidence and protect your rights. Here are a few tips regarding how to handle a work accident: Notify your manager or supervisor right away so they are aware of the situation. Explain how the accident took place and the injuries that resulted. Make sure an accident report is completed by your employer. If 911 is called, the responding officer will also complete a report. Get copies of any accident reports filed. Seek medical treatment right away. Regardless of the nature of the injuries, you should be checked by a medical professional. Contact your representative with the Writers Guild of America East. You might be entitled to additional benefits or faster claims processing. Schedule a consultation with a workers' compensation attorney. Protect Your Legal Rights Don't risk losing benefits that you are entitled to receive. You could sign away your rights unknowingly. Don't pursue your claim or talk with the insurance company until you consult with your Writers Guild of America East representative, and a workers' compensation attorney. Additional Resources Workers' Compensation in New York Why Should I Get a Workers’ Compensation Attorney? 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, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
