RICHMOND, VA (AP) The number of job-related fatalities rose 9 percent in Virginia last year, with transportation accidents continuing to be the leading cause of death, the state’s labor department reported.

The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry said there were 155 occupational fatalities in the state in 2003, up from 142 the previous year.

Transportation deaths increased to 57 last year from 50 in 2002, while “contact with objects and equipment” resulted in 27 deaths, up from 22 the prior year.

There were 24 fatalities resulting from assaults and violent acts, a slight increase over last year’s 22 deaths.

Of all industry sectors, construction had the most deaths –– 41. Construction deaths made up more than a quarter of all occupational fatalities. The most dangerous jobs were truck driver, with 16 deaths last year, and construction laborer, with eight deaths.

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