There are a vast number of jobs out there and while any one of them can become dangerous and cause injuries to workers, some are simply more hazardous than others by their very nature. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2014, there were 4,821 fatal occupational injuries, the majority of which occurred in just a handful of sectors.
We have compiled a list of some of the most dangerous occupations in America, which account for a large number of work-related injuries and fatalities in the country:
- Logging workers: Given that this job generally involves spending most of the day outdoors, around heavy machinery, and often in bad weather and high altitudes, it is no wonder that this is the most dangerous occupation in the country. In fact, this occupation has a fatality rate of 110.9 per 100,000 workers.
- Fishers: Fishing as a hobby might be leisurely, but as an occupation, fishers or other related fishing workers have a seriously dangerous job. From malfunctioning gear and bad weather to transportation accidents, this occupation has the second highest fatality rate in the country.
- Roofers: Some of the most common injuries sustained by roofers are, unsurprisingly, those related to falls. Many of these injuries might not be fatal, but can often lead to a lot of broken bones and fractures, which can put a worker out of commission for a while, or even permanently, depending on the severity of the injury.
- Farmers and ranchers: What is arguably one of the oldest occupations is also rather dangerous, especially due to some of the new technology involved to increase efficiency. Unfortunately, much of this technology does little to make a workers’ time out on the land any safer and, in fact, many of the injuries and fatalities are caused by heavy machinery and equipment.
- Structural iron and steel workers: Logging workers have the highest fatality rates, but iron and steel workers have the highest injury rates out of all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Falls, slips, and trips are the most common causes of injuries for workers in this particular industry.
- Truck drivers: Driving for vast amounts of hours at a time can take a toll on anyone. Even the best drivers can eventually crack under the pressure to meet some of the intense deadlines truck drivers are expected to meet. While the trucking industry has strict regulations, enforcing them is another story. Traffic accidents are the biggest cause of fatalities in this particular occupation.
- Electrical power-line installers: Even though there are countless safety precautions put in place, workers in this industry still face some seriously deadly conditions on a daily basis. Electrocution and falls make up the bulk of injuries and fatalities in this job.
- Taxi drivers: When you are constantly on the road, accidents can happen eventually, especially when in heavy traffic or bad weather. Taxi drivers not only have to remain alert and drive in all kinds of conditions, but there is also a chance they might be transporting a violent passenger or driving in a high-crime area. With all of these variables, it is easy to see why driving a taxi is also a dangerous occupation.
Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Sacramento
If you sustained an injury on the job, regardless of your occupation, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to assist you during this difficult time. However, employers and insurance companies often make it difficult for workers to obtain these benefits. At Smolich and Smolich, our Sacramento workers’ compensation attorneys will help ensure you secure a favorable result.
We also believe you should take this time to focus on your recovery, which is why you will not owe us any legal fees until we win your case.
For the representation you deserve, contact our office today at (888) 452-0703 to schedule a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable member of our legal team.