Most Dangerous Jobs in America
Have you ever wondered if your job is detrimental to your feet, ankles, and even your life?
Well, the reality is there are plenty of dangerous jobs out there – professionals in all different types of career fields often risk life and limb to earn an income and provide for their families.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 60,000 foot and ankle injuries each year result in employees losing paid-time from work. Further yet, 75 percent of these incidents occur when an employee fails to comply with company safety rules. And, because of this, getting injured on the job can lead to very stressful times, from not being able to pay your bills to potentially losing your house.
Fortunately, since 1971 and after the Occupational Safety and Health Act was passed, workplace safety has significantly improved. Today, despite an ever-expanding workforce, the number of fatal job-related accidents has reduced by almost 67 percent.
And this is wonderful news! But you should still keep in mind that no matter how strict the safety standards, accidents and errors are inevitable – even with all the improvements in policies, training, and equipment, no job is completely safe.
So, if you are looking for a career that is relatively safe for your feet, ankles, and general well-being, or if you are just curious as to what jobs are considered most dangerous (some of these may even surprise you!), then keep reading.
What are the Most Dangerous Jobs in America?
The quick answer is: logging and fishing.
While loggers are at constant risk of being injured by falling trees, fishing workers have to always worry about drowning. That is why today these occupations are considered to be the two most dangerous jobs in America.
And, as equally dangerous, these jobs share many aspects in common – like exposure to extreme weather, proximity to heavy and dangerous equipment, and lack of access to hospitals and medical facilities. Together, these factors amount to a terrible combination when it comes to health and safety.
But serious hazards can also be found in work environments that most of us wouldn’t necessarily consider as unusual or “dangerous.” Below are some examples of jobs that, although common, are ranked as some of the most dangerous jobs in America:
- Roofers
- Garbage collectors
- Farmers and ranchers
- Steel workers and structural iron
- Power line installers and repairmen
- Truckers and delivery drivers
- Construction workers
- Police officers
- Electricians
- Painters
We know – you are probably asking yourself “why is being a painter considered such a dangerous profession.” And, no we are not pulling your leg.
The truth is that most of these jobs require frequent use of heavy machinery, close proximity to dangerous substances, and working in potentially hazardous environments. So, it should actually come as no surprise that being a painter, a driver, or a farmer, can drastically increase your risk of injuries.
What are Your Rights as an Injured Employee?
We certainly hope that you are able to steer clear from injuries related to your occupation. However, if you find yourself in such circumstances, then you may be entitled to financial damages. So, it is important that you become aware of your rights and the steps you should take to ensure that you are well taken care of when – and if – you get injured at work.
In short, financial damages may cover medical expenses you incur as a result of the injury in question, like hospital bills and medications. Depending on your specific case, you may also be entitled to receive payment for any pain and suffering, mental and emotional distress, or lost wages and benefits you may experience due to your injury.
If your injury was a result of gross negligence on the part of another individual or entity, like an employer or manufacturer, then collecting punitive damages should also be an option. This will discipline the wrongdoer and prevent the misconduct from happening again, as well as assist you in paying any medical bills you have had or will have in the future due to the injury.
The bottom line is that if you live in a tight budget, then bearing the cost of medical expenses AND lost wages from missing work translates into very detrimental outcomes and hard times (both in your general and financial life). And, if your injury happened on the job, then you are entitled to worker’s compensation benefits from your employer.
So, now that you are aware of when you may be eligible for worker’s comp, let’s discuss how you can make sure you are reaping these benefits.
How Can We Help You?
Though, suffering an injury due to employer negligence means that you are entitled to receive worker’s compensation benefits, there are steps you need to take in order to qualify for these benefits.
First you will need to notify your employer of the situation and file a claim as soon as you can. This must be done within 30 days of your injury and all necessary paperwork must be completed – failure to do so can result in total loss of benefits. And, if you end up requiring any type of medical care for your injury, then you should seek medical advice from a specialized doctor and notify them of the circumstances right away – so inform your physician that you are seeking care for a job-related injury.
Not sure where to find a specialized doctor?
We got you! Here at the Southern California Foot & Ankle Specialists, we are fully trained and licensed to evaluate disability and create medical-legal reports that you can use to determine and prove your benefit eligibility. When you come visit our office, we will make sure to conduct a thorough evaluation of your situation and guide you in the right direction so that you are taken care of throughout these trying times.
So, if you need more information about worker’s compensation and medical care, or if you would like to make an appointment, just call us at (949) 364-9250 or simply fill out our request form online. We will be happy to help you today!