Nowadays, workplaces are seeing more older employees. In fact, the number of workers who are 55 years old and older has more than doubled since 1992. There are many reasons for this, such as an increase in life expectancy and financial reasons. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that almost 25 percent of all workers will be older than 55 years old by the year of 2024.
The BLS has also put together the most dangerous jobs for older employees, particularly for workers who are 55 years old and older. It is important to review the most dangerous occupations for older workers so employers can create safer workplaces.
Are Older Workers More Vulnerable to Fatal Work Accidents?
The BLS compiled data from 2018 to evaluate the fatal injury rate among older workers. In the 55 to 64 years old age group, there was an average of 4.3 fatal injuries per 100,000 full-time workers. In the 65 years old and older age group, there was an average of 9.6 fatalities per 100,000 workers.
What Occupations are Risky for Older Workers?
The following occupations are the most dangerous jobs for older workers, according to the BLS:
- Truck drivers
- Farmers
- Construction supervisors and extraction workers
- Supervisors in retail sales
- Construction laborers
- Landscaping workers
- Commercial pilots
- Light truck and delivery service drivers
- Hand laborers and material movers
- Taxi and chauffeur drivers
What Should an Older Employee Do After a Work Accident?
If an employee is injured at work, they are entitled to workers’ compensation, no matter their age. Workers’ compensation benefits can also apply to workers who develop long-term illnesses as a result of workplace accidents or conditions. Also, an injured worker may be entitled to other benefits through a third-party claim.
Even if an employee is practicing safety at work, they can still incur a serious work injury. After a work accident, it is important that a worker reports their injury to their employer. This is a necessary step to collect benefits. Receiving medical attention after a workplace accident is also crucial, even if the injury seems minor.
Another important step is to speak to a lawyer. A lawyer will review their client’s case and ensure they receive their entitled workers’ compensation benefits. Work injuries can be severe, especially among older workers. For this reason, it is imperative that a worker obtains the maximum amount of compensation that is available. A lawyer can help an injured worker with their recovery by making sure they receive necessary benefits to cover medical expenses and other financial losses.
Downingtown Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC Help Older Workers Receive Benefits After Workplace Accidents
Our Downingtown workers’ compensation lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC understand that work injuries are serious, especially for older employees. One of our lawyers can assess your case and make sure you get your entitled compensation. Contact us online or call us at 610-594-1600 for a free consultation. Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Downingtown, West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchlan Township, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.