According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016 saw 5,190 fatal work injuries in the United States — a 7-percent uptick from the occupational fatalities reported in 2015. Loggers, commercial fishery workers, aircraft pilots and those working in the construction industry had the highest injury and fatality rates. Some lines of work are clearly more hazardous than others. It’s no surprise that jobs involving heavy machinery, power tools, challenging terrain and unstable structures rank high for workplace injuries and deaths, but some of the most dangerous jobs in America often go unrecognized.

Here are five jobs that are surprisingly risky and produce more fatalities than you’d expect.

#1: Outdoor Recreation Workers

Hiking and whitewater rafting guides, snowboard instructors and other employees who are exposed to extreme weather and environmental conditions are at great risk for injury and death. Snake bites, hypothermia, heat stroke, falls and drownings claim the lives of dozens each year.

#2: Landscapers

Mowing lawns and trimming shrubs may not seem exceedingly dangerous, but workplace injury rates in this field tell a different story. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, more than 130 grounds maintenance workers died in 2008. Many of the fatal injuries were related to heavy and sharp power tools used by the workers.

#3: Garbage Collectors

Being a trash or recycling collector may not be the most glamorous profession, and it isn’t the safest. The handling of waste can pose many health hazards over the long-term. In 2016, 31 trash collectors lost their lives to occupational factors, and the industry has the fifth highest fatal injury death rate, following roofers and airline pilots.

#4: Cashiers

Believe it or not, cashiers are rated the 20th most dangerous job in terms of illnesses and non-fatal injuries requiring time off of work. Cashiers are constantly exposed to the public and are more prone to colds and flus. Other health concerns include back pain, swollen feet and carpal tunnel syndrome. Whether working in a gas station, restaurant or bank, the biggest safety concern facing cashiers is a robbery turned homicide.

#5: Taxi Drivers

You might think that traffic accidents were the biggest concern for cab drivers. In fact, taxi drivers and chauffeurs are more likely to die from violent crime than they are from a crash. While driving unruly passengers or in dangerous neighborhoods, they are often in harm’s way. The fatality rate for taxi drivers is 18 deaths per 100,000 workers, making this a surprisingly risky job.

Were you injured on the job?

If you were hurt on the job, it’s important to protect your legal rights. The law firm of Aronova & Associates can ensure you get the worker’s compensation benefits to which you’re entitled under the law. Our talented legal team has over a decade’s experience working with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board and knows how to maximize the value of your claim.

Set up a free consultation with a skilled job injury lawyer New York trusts, by calling our Manhattan office at 516-640-3900.