According to data from the California Department of Industrial Relations, the following occupations are among the most dangerous in the state.
- Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting: This sector had the highest rate of injuries and illnesses in California. In 2019, the forestry sector in California had a total of 17,560 reported cases of injuries and illnesses, with a rate of 9.9 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. The most common injuries include slips and falls, being struck by objects, and exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Construction: This sector had the second-highest rate of injuries and illnesses in California, with a total of 15,380 reported cases and a rate of 3.9 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. The most common injuries in construction include falls from heights, being struck by objects, and electrocutions.
- Manufacturing: In 2019, the manufacturing sector in California had a total of 9,720 reported cases of injuries and illnesses, with a rate of 2.4 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. The most common injuries in manufacturing include amputations, chemical burns, and exposure to harmful substances.
- Transportation and Warehousing: This sector had a total of 8,650 reported injuries and illnesses in California in 2019. Injuries in transportation and warehousing can include slips, trips, and falls, as well as injuries sustained in vehicle accidents.
- Healthcare: Workers in the healthcare sector are at risk of a range of injuries, including musculoskeletal disorders, slips, trips, and falls, and exposure to infectious diseases. In 2019, the healthcare sector in California had a total of 7,900 reported cases of injuries and illnesses.
- Retail: Workers in the retail sector can be at risk of injuries such as sprains and strains from lifting heavy objects, slips and falls from wet floors, and assaults from customers. In 2019, the retail sector in California had a total of 6,470 reported cases of injuries and illnesses.
- Accommodation and Food Services: Workers in this sector, which includes hotels, restaurants, and bars, are at risk of injuries such as burns, cuts, and slips and falls. In 2019, the accommodation and food services sector in California had a total of 5,740 reported cases of injuries and illnesses.
- Waste Management and Remediation Services: Workers in this sector can be at risk of injuries from handling hazardous materials, slips and falls, and accidents involving heavy machinery. In 2019, the waste management and remediation services sector in California had a total of 3,230 reported cases of injuries and illnesses.
- Public Administration: Workers in public administration, which includes government agencies, can be at risk of injuries from workplace violence, falls, and exposure to harmful substances. In 2019, the public administration sector in California had a total of 2,590 reported cases of injuries and illnesses.
Hurt on the Job? Here’s Why to Use a Workers’ Comp Lawyer
- Knowledge of the System: Workers’ compensation laws in California are complex, and the process for filing a claim can be confusing and time-consuming. A workers’ comp lawyer has a deep understanding of the workers’ compensation system and can help injured workers navigate the process from start to finish.
- Maximizing Benefits: Injured workers may be entitled to various benefits under the workers’ compensation system, including medical treatment, temporary disability benefits, and permanent disability benefits. A workers’ comp lawyer can help injured workers maximize their benefits by ensuring that all eligible expenses are covered and that they receive fair compensation for their injuries.
- Protection from Employer Retaliation: Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees for filing a workers’ compensation claim. However, some employers may still try to retaliate, such as by demoting or firing the injured worker. A workers’ comp lawyer can protect injured workers from employer retaliation and ensure that they are treated fairly.
- Appealing Denied Claims: In some cases, workers’ compensation claims are denied by the employer or insurance company. A workers’ comp lawyer can help injured workers appeal a denied claim and fight for the benefits they deserve.
- Peace of Mind: Dealing with a workplace injury can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if the injury is severe or results in long-term disability. Hiring a workers’ comp lawyer can provide injured workers with peace of mind knowing that they have an experienced advocate fighting for their rights and interests.
Our experienced, compassionate workers’ comp lawyers can help injured workers like you navigate the system, protect your rights, and obtain fair benefits. Get in touch today for a free, confidential consultation.
