10 High Risk Jobs That Can Make Getting Life Insurance Tough

Not everyone who seeks life insurance is granted approval. Various factors influence the success of an application and the cost of premiums.

Age and health are among the key considerations, but an applicant’s job can also be a significant factor.

If you work in a hazardous profession, your insurance premiums will be higher compared to someone in a safer occupation, assuming all other factors are equal.

In this article, we will explore high risk jobs that can make getting life insurance tough and discuss the available options for individuals in such professions.

Reach out to Sure Insurance for expert advice and personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs. We’re here to help you find the coverage you deserve.

What are high-risk occupations?

Every job has its own set of risks, but some are significantly more dangerous than others. A desk job, for example, is relatively safe compared to fighting fires in a war zone, which is inherently more perilous.

When we talk about high risk jobs that can make getting life insurance tough, we’re focusing on those roles that involve dangerous activities on a regular or semi-regular basis.

Even among these occupations, there are varying levels of risk classification that determine whether a job is considered high, medium, or low risk.

In this discussion, we’ll concentrate on hazardous professions that pose a substantial risk of death for their workers.

For personalized advice and to protect yourself in high-risk occupations, contact Sure Insurance today. Let us help you find the coverage you need.

10 high risk jobs that can make getting life insurance tough

1. LOGGER

Logging is a perilous profession with risks such as falling trees, strong winds, buzzing chainsaws, uneven terrain, and dangerous wildlife. 

The fatality rate for loggers is 91.3 deaths per 100,000 workers, significantly higher than the national average of 3.2 deaths per 100,000 workers in Canada.

2. COMMERCIAL FISHER

Commercial fishers face harsh weather, heavy equipment, constant sun exposure, and sleep deprivation. These conditions contribute to a fatality rate of 75 deaths per 100,000 workers.

3. AIRCRAFT PILOT/FLIGHT ENGINEER

Commercial airline pilots, search and rescue pilots, and flight engineers endure high stress and long hours. Test pilots push equipment to its limits, while crop dusters deal with chemicals and hazards like power lines. 

The death rate for pilots and flight engineers is 50.6 deaths per 100,000 workers.

4. ROOFER

Roofers face inherent dangers from working at heights daily. This profession has a fatality rate of 38.7 deaths per 100,000 workers, making it the fourth highest in terms of fatal injuries.

5. FARMER

Farmers and ranchers share many of the same hazards as loggers, with an added danger from tractors. Overturned tractors are the leading cause of death among farmers, resulting in a fatality rate of 21.8 per 100,000 workers.

6. MINER

Mining disasters are so common that the Mine Safety and Health Administration tracks them by specific variables. Increased safety awareness has reduced fatalities, but the fatality rate for mining machine operators remains at 26.9 per 100,000 workers.

7. REFUSE AND RECYCLABLE COLLECTOR

Garbage collectors work with heavy, potentially hazardous equipment, frequently jump on and off moving vehicles, and are exposed to chemicals. This job has a fatality rate of 33 deaths per 100,000 workers.

8. TRUCK DRIVER (AND OTHERS WHO DRIVE FOR WORK)

Truck drivers and others who drive for work face dangers such as heavy equipment, chemicals, and road hazards. This occupation ranks seventh with a fatality rate of 22 deaths per 100,000 workers.

9. ELECTRIC POWER LINE INSTALLER/REPAIRER

Working with high voltage at significant heights is dangerous, especially in adverse weather conditions. This occupation has a fatality rate of 21.5 deaths per 100,000 workers.

10. CONSTRUCTION LABORER

Construction workers face hazards like collapsing scaffolds, falls, and electrical shocks. These risks contribute to a fatality rate of 17.7 deaths per 100,000 workers. Half of all contract workers fatally injured were in construction.

For advice and comprehensive coverage tailored to your high-risk profession, contact Sure Insurance today. We’re here to protect you and your loved ones.

Types of life insurance for high-risk occupations

Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance

This type of insurance doesn’t require a medical exam, ensuring that your high-risk job won’t disqualify you from coverage. However, it tends to be more expensive and might offer lower payouts compared to other insurance types.

Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance is generally affordable and allows you to choose a suitable term length. On the downside, your high-risk job may increase the cost or render you ineligible. Additionally, it doesn’t build cash value and can become significantly more expensive after the term ends.

Permanent Life Policy

A permanent life policy offers a cash value component and remains in effect as long as you pay your premiums. Though it provides lasting coverage, it is typically more costly than other life insurance options.

Feel protected in your high-risk job. Contact Sure Insurance for expert advice tailored on high risk jobs that can make getting life insurance tough .

How to Choose the Right Life Insurance Policy if You Have a High-Risk Job

Here’s what to consider:

1. Evaluate Your Coverage Needs

Life insurance provides for those you leave behind—be it a spouse, children, or other dependents. Their needs should be at the forefront when determining your coverage.

• Income: 

Your life insurance should ensure your family’s financial stability in your absence. Consider how much you earn and what percentage of family expenses you cover.

• Dependents: 

Think about how many people rely on your income and how quickly they could become self-sufficient if you were gone. 

For instance, a spouse who could downsize or find another job will have different needs compared to someone supporting an elderly parent and multiple children.

• Job Risk Level: 

Not all high-risk jobs carry the same risk. Those in more dangerous professions might want policies with higher payouts.

• Health and Age: 

These are crucial factors in any life insurance policy, regardless of job risk.

2. Explore Different Life Insurance Options

Finding the right policy isn’t just about getting the lowest rate but also about ensuring adequate coverage.

• Policy Type: 

Term life insurance is often the most affordable for high-risk careers. If term life insurance isn’t an option, guaranteed life insurance might be a good backup.

• Coverage Amount: 

Determine how much money your family would need if you passed away. Experts suggest coverage of 5 to 10 times your annual salary.

• Coverage Duration: 

Your insurance should last as long as you are working and have financial obligations, such as a mortgage or until your children are financially independent. 

Consider your retirement age, outstanding debts, and the age of your dependents when choosing the length of your policy.

3. Supplement Your Life Insurance Policy for Additional Coverage

For extra security, consider adding another type of insurance, such as disability insurance (to cover expenses if you’re injured at work) or accidental death insurance.

Find the best policy for your needs, contact Sure Insurance today. We’re here to help you secure your family’s future.

Factors that impact life insurance premiums for people with dangerous occupations

Life insurance premiums are determined by various elements that form your lifestyle risk profile. This profile includes not only your profession but also other critical factors such as:

• Your age
• Whether you participate in hazardous activities (like skydiving or rock climbing)
• Whether you smoke
• Your medical history, including any existing health conditions like heart disease or diabetes

Insurers also assess the risk level associated with your job, noting that risk can vary widely. The location of your work can impact your life insurance as much as the job itself.

For instance, being a roofer in an area with mostly low-rise buildings might have minimal effect on your insurance policy. 

However, working as a roofer in a city with numerous high-rises is likely to classify you as high-risk, leading to higher premiums or potential denial of coverage from some insurers.

How does occupational hazard impact life insurance coverage?

Generally, occupational hazard alone may not prevent you from obtaining life insurance. However, this may not hold for particularly high-risk professions. 

For example, while police officers typically secure life insurance, those in bomb squads might struggle to find coverage and should anticipate higher premiums.

Professionals like firefighters or police officers in low-risk environments can usually obtain a policy, though their premiums might be higher compared to those with standard desk jobs. 

Carpenters, welders, and others working with dangerous tools might find it somewhat more challenging to purchase life insurance and should expect elevated premiums.

Individuals working in particularly hazardous environments, such as mines or specific laboratories, might not find suitable term life insurance and may need to opt for more expensive guaranteed life insurance plans.

It’s important to remember that your occupation is only one of many factors insurers consider when determining coverage eligibility. Age, lifestyle habits, hobbies, and overall lifestyle also play significant roles.

Discover the best insurance options tailored to your needs. Contact Sure Insurance today for expert advice and personalized coverage solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions about high risk jobs that can make getting life insurance tough

How much is high risk insurance in Ontario?

High risk insurance premiums in Ontario can vary widely depending on factors such as age, health condition, and the type of insurance coverage needed. Generally, high risk individuals can expect to pay higher premiums compared to those with lower risk profiles.

Am I considered high risk for health insurance?

Whether you are considered high risk for health insurance depends on factors such as pre-existing medical conditions, lifestyle choices (like smoking), and your medical history. Insurers assess these factors to determine your risk profile and subsequently your premium rates.

What type of life insurance is best for people that are high risk?

For individuals considered high risk, guaranteed issue life insurance or simplified issue life insurance may be more suitable. 

These types of policies typically have fewer medical underwriting requirements compared to traditional life insurance, making them more accessible for high risk individuals.

Can I still get life insurance if I am considered high risk?

Yes, individuals considered high risk can still obtain life insurance. There are specialized insurance products designed for high risk individuals, such as guaranteed issue or simplified issue policies. 

These options often have higher premiums but may provide coverage without extensive medical underwriting.

What is simplified life insurance?

Simplified life insurance is a type of policy that typically requires less extensive medical underwriting compared to traditional life insurance policies. 

It’s designed to be easier and quicker to obtain, making it a viable option for individuals who may have health issues or other factors that classify them as higher risk.

Do high risk individuals pay more for insurance?

Yes, high risk individuals typically pay higher insurance premiums. This is because insurers perceive them as more likely to make claims based on their health status, lifestyle, or other risk factors.

Does insurance cover high risk pregnancy?

Insurance coverage for high risk pregnancy can vary depending on the policy and the specific conditions involved. 

Some health insurance plans may cover complications related to high risk pregnancies, but it’s important to check your policy details for specific coverage.

How can I find out all high risk insurance companies?

To find insurance companies that specialize in high risk coverage, you can research online, consult with insurance brokers who have experience in this area, or directly contact insurance companies to inquire about their offerings for high risk individuals.

How long do rates stay high for high risk insurance?

Rates for high risk insurance can remain higher as long as the factors contributing to your high risk status persist. However, some policies may offer opportunities to reduce premiums over time if the risk factors improve or change.

How long until high risk insurance lasts?

High risk insurance typically lasts for the duration specified in the policy terms, which can vary depending on the type of insurance and the insurer’s guidelines. 

Some policies may be renewable annually, while others may have longer terms. It’s important to review your policy documents for specific details about the duration of coverage.