Dangerous Occupations

North Carolina has a vibrant and diverse economy, with several industries making significant contributions. However, some of the most common jobs in North Carolina are also very dangerous. This is reflected in the most recent report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which found that there were over 67,000 North Carolina workers who suffered injuries on the job in 2021. Of these workplace injuries, 40,500 were more severe, resulting days away from work, job transfer, or occupational restriction.

At the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, our Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyers are dedicated to helping injured workers obtain the benefits they need to get back on their feet and back to work. We have decades of experience successfully handling all types of workers’ comp cases on behalf of those employed in dangerous occupations.

According to a 2021 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, three sectors were responsible for the majority of occupational injuries and illnesses in North Carolina:

• Trade, transportation, and utilities;
• Education and health services; and
• Manufacturing.

Of course, each of these three industries is very large, making up approximately 51 percent of the workforce in North Carolina. Even taking that into account, these industries were responsible for 73 percent of all injury cases.

Based on the most recent data, the following are among the most dangerous occupations in North Carolina:

Logging Workers: Logging is historically one of the most hazardous jobs. Workers may be at risk for serious injuries from falling trees, machinery accidents, and other on-the-job incidents.

Fishers and Fishing-Related Workers: Commercial fishing is another occupation with a high fatality rate. Drowning is the most common cause of death, and workers may also be injured by gear and equipment.

Roofers: Roofers face the risk of falls, heat-related illnesses, and other injuries related to working at heights and exposure to the elements.

Construction Workers: Construction sites can be dangerous due to the risk of falls, electrocutions, being struck by objects, and getting caught in or between objects.

Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers: Agriculture is a major industry in North Carolina, and it carries risks such as machinery accidents, animal-related injuries, and exposure to chemicals.

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers: These workers face the dangers of falls, electrocutions, and injuries from working with heavy equipment.

Truck Drivers and Commercial Drivers: Motor vehicle accidents can pose significant risks to truck and commercial drivers.

Law Enforcement Officers: Police officers and other law enforcement personnel face the risk of violence, car accidents, and other hazards.

Firefighters: Firefighting is inherently risky, with dangers including fires, explosions, and exposure to hazardous substances.

Sanitation Workers: Sanitation workers may be exposed to hazardous waste, heavy equipment, and road accidents.

Of course, regardless of the inherent danger a job presents, employers are still responsible for taking all necessary steps to create a safe workplace.

Yes, workers in dangerous occupations are generally eligible for workers' compensation benefits if they are injured on the job or develop an occupational disease. This is because the workers’ compensation system doesn’t require workers to prove anyone else was responsible for their injuries. The only question is whether a worker’s injury was caused by or related to their employment.

In North Carolina, employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance to cover the expenses and losses suffered by employees who are injured at work. This includes covering medical bills, a portion of lost wages, disability benefits, and death benefits for the families of workers who are killed on the job.

If you were recently injured in an accident at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. At the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, we have created a team of knowledgeable workers’ comp lawyers who are committed to securing benefits on behalf of our clients. We understand how to navigate the complex North Carolina workers’ compensation process, and what needs to be done to maximize the benefits you receive. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with one of our Charlotte work injury lawyers, give us a call at 704-405-2580. You can also reach our Cabarrus County workers’ compensation attorneys at 704-918-4747. We proudly represent clients in Charlotte, Concord and Kannapolis, as well as throughout Mecklenburg, Gaston, Iredell, Rowan, and Union Counties.