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The most dangerous jobs in America

On Behalf of | May 25, 2020 | Workers' Compensation |

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we look at much of our world. Many of us have come to realize that jobs that were once considered safe can actually have elements of danger in them. No better example of that is the grocery store clerk. Six months ago, few thought of that as an essential, risky position. And then the virus came along and rearranged thinking.

Of course, some jobs are inherently riskier than others, pandemic or not. Earlier this year (before the pandemic), Business Insider listed the most dangerous jobs in America, many of which can be found right here in Sioux Falls.

On-the-job danger

Let’s take a look at the positions and their fatality rates per 100,000 workers:

  • Painters (in construction and maintenance): 5.3 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers. These men and women paint structures under construction or just after completion.
  • Plumbers, pipelayers, pipefitters: 5.6 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers. Install or maintain pipes, sewer systems or plumbing systems.
  • Freight and stock movers and hand-laborers: 8 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers.
  • Auto mechanics: 6.1 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers.
  • Welders: 6.2
  • Security guards: 6.4
  • EMTs and paramedics: 6.5
  • Carpenters: 6.6
  • Taxi drivers: 6.7
  • Industrial truck and tractor operators: moving materials around warehouses, construction sites, factories, etc.: 6.8
  • Athletes, coaches, officiating personnel: 7.6
  • HVAC installers, mechanics: 8.5

While it is undoubtedly obvious why many of those workers are in some danger each day on the job, others might well surprise. It’s likely that few of us thought of athletes and car mechanics as risky jobs, but probably obvious why security guards and taxi drivers can face danger.

The riskiest jobs of all

Now let’s take a look at the 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S.:

  • Landscaping, groundskeeper supervisors: 20.2 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers.
  • Construction and extraction supervisors: 21
  • Structural steel workers: 23.6
  • Farmers: 24.7
  • Truckers and commercial drivers: 26
  • Refuse and recycling collectors: 44.3
  • Roofers: 51.5
  • Pilots and flight engineers: 58.9
  • Fishers: 77.4
  • Loggers: 97.6

Those who have sustained workplace injuries are typically eligible for South Dakota workers’ compensation benefits that include full medical treatment costs and replacement of a portion of their lost wages.

Unfortunately, legitimate workers’ comp claims are often denied by employers’ insurers eager to keep their costs down.

You have the right to fight for the benefits you deserve, however. Contact a Sioux Falls attorney experienced in helping injured employees get the workers’ comp benefits they have earned.