Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
No matter how much you earn, working a job is an important aspect of life, and there is a reality that not all jobs are created equal. From the outset, some jobs come with intrinsic risk, and individuals who work those types of jobs put themselves in danger of injury.
If you get hurt at work, you might be wondering whether you can file a personal injury claim. Therefore, if yours is one of the more dangerous jobs, you may be more likely to have a claim than others. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most perilous jobs in the U.S. and what to do if you get injured at work.
America’s Most Dangerous Jobs
Some jobs are more dangerous than others, risking accidents, injuries, or even death for workers. Some of these jobs may sound exciting, but they also come with extreme risk. Whether you’re an oil rig worker, a military service person, or an operator of heavy machinery, threats can be right around the corner. Here’s a list of some of the most perilous jobs you’ll find in the U.S.
Construction Workers
Every year, construction workers are at high risk of coming into contact with injury. They work on skyscrapers, bridges, and highways. They are exposed to extreme heights, run the risk of heavy equipment accidents, and can even get hit by falling objects.
However, just before they get to work, they have to drive long distances. In Norfolk, construction workers drive kilometers to get to the site where they are working.
These risks render construction a dangerous occupation. A Norfolk car accident attorney has the experience needed to help determine the best course of action if ever this happens to a construction worker, regardless of the fact if they are in the workplace or getting to the construction site.
Farmers and Agricultural Workers
It sounds like a bucolic job, yet one of the most dangerous professions of them all. Machines, animals, and the environment can be dangerous for workers as well. There is a significant risk of accidents when using dangerous tools and heavy equipment in farming.
It is common for workers in this sector to sustain body injuries like broken bones, deep cuts, burns, etc.
Truck Drivers
Injury rates are also high in the truck-driving profession. Truckers are susceptible to accidents due to the long hours spent on the road. They contend with bad weather, other drivers, and, in some cases, poorly maintained roads.
Truck drivers may also face injuries that result from lifting heavy cargo or accidents, particularly when driving through a busy city. It’s difficult for any truck driver in an accident or suffering an injury to know what, if any, rights they have or the next steps to take without talking to a Norfolk car accident lawyer.
Fishers and Fishing Workers
It’s also a high-risk job with fishing. Fishing boats can also be a dangerous place to work in volatile weather. The risk of being struck by equipment, slipping, falling, or getting thrown overboard is high.
For many people dealing with this, injury comes with the territory. When fishing-related injuries happen, personal injury attorneys in Greenville, NC can be one of the best ways to find the legal help required.
Roofers
Roofing is a hard, physically challenging job and comes with a considerable amount of risk. The most common injuries are from falls off roofs, but workers can also be injured by tools, sharp equipment, falling materials, or exposure to extreme weather.
Roofing may appear to be a well-paid job, but it involves the risk of severe injury. An injured roofer should consult with a burn injury lawyer to learn about their remedies under the law if they are wounded in the course of their work.
Electricians
Electricians handle risky electrical systems, which can result in deadly injuries if something goes wrong. They can be shocked, burned, or electrocuted while doing their job. Electricians are trained in strict safety procedures, but accidents can occur. If an electrician gets hurt while on the job, it would be smart to consult an accident lawyer in Norfolk about what to do next.
Miners
Mining is among the oldest and most perilous professions. Miners typically work underground, where they are at risk of cave-ins, explosions, and other hazards. With heavy equipment in use and exposure to hazardous materials, mining is a dangerous job every day.
What Is a Personal Injury Claim?
If you’re injured at work, you could be entitled to file a claim to cover medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering.
Every job includes different rules and guidelines for injuries that happen on the job, and workers’ compensation may also be an option depending on your worksite. It is always a good approach to contact an expert or consultant to lead you through the course.
When to Call a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been injured doing your job, the attorney may be able to assist you. A lawyer can help you determine whether you have a case and can also ask what type of damages you may be entitled to. Here are some scenarios in which you should contact a car accident attorney or another kind of personal injury lawyer:
- If your injury was caused by negligence on the part of your employer.
- You’re uncertain whether to file a claim or not.
- If your injury is serious and may impact your ability to earn a living.
A seasoned attorney can look over your case and help determine your next moves.
Why You Should Provide Notice of Injuries Immediately
If you are injured on the job, it’s important to immediately report your injury to your employer. These are reasons to report an injury, but waiting can hurt your chances for compensation. Be sure to document your injuries and how you were injured. Reporting your injury immediately will establish that the accident occurred in the course of your work duties.
When You Need Legal Help
You may still need a personal injury lawyer, even if you qualify for workers’ compensation. It can be difficult to navigate the system without assistance if your employer contests your claim or if your injury is more serious than you think.
Conclusion
Some jobs inherently include more risk than others, but that doesn’t mean workers should have to suffer injury alone. A personal injury claim can fight for the compensation you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and more, ensuring your worker rights are protected if you are injured on the job.
Construction worker, a farmer, or a truck driver, you have the right to receive help if you get hurt on the job. Speak to a skilled personal injury lawyer to learn your options and ensure you receive the assistance you need.
FAQs
How do I get help right after being injured at work?
Notify your employer of the injury immediately and get medical care.
Can I make a personal injury claim if my injury was my fault?
You can file a claim, but whether you should depends on your circumstances and the laws of your state.
How to get the best personal injury attorney?
Find an attorney experienced in workplace injury cases similar to your own and then speak to them about your particular situation.
