Recovering Maximum Compensation for Auto Mechanics Across Pennsylvania

Auto mechanics may suffer injuries varying in type and severity depending on the type of work they perform and their work environment. Some mechanics are self-employed, whereas others work in dealerships or in automotive parts, accessories, and tire stores. Some common injuries our Philadelphia workers’ compensation lawyers have seen include:

• Acute injuries – Hand injuries such as cuts and bruises are common in this industry. Auto mechanics may also suffer injuries due to contact with objects/equipment or they may be struck by a falling object such as a car when it falls off a lift or a jack.
• Asphyxiation – If an auto shop is not well-ventilated, auto technicians may become asphyxiated by exhaust gases or other toxic airborne chemicals. In severe cases, this can lead to death.
• Assault injuries – Automotive shops and dealerships may be located in unsafe neighborhoods, putting workers at risk for assault injuries. Workplace violence is a common cause of auto mechanic fatalities, according to the BLS.
• Burns – Burns are among the most common injuries suffered by auto mechanics. They may suffer thermal, electrical, or chemical burns (especially to the hands or face) when working on cars.
• Eye injuries – Flying pieces of metal or dust can cause eye injuries. Workers should wear safety glasses and other personal protective equipment (PPE) when appropriate for the job at hand.
• Injuries due to faulty equipment – Sometimes auto mechanics become injured due to faulty equipment or tools. They may be able to sue the third party who manufactured or supplied the equipment in a third-party personal injury or products liability case in order to recover additional damages.
• Loss of limb/finger – Amputation injuries are not uncommon in this industry. Rotating, sharp, or otherwise hazardous equipment can cause workers to lose a limb or a digit if they do not wear the proper PPE and follow applicable safety procedures.
• Occupational illness – Exposure to industrial chemicals, asbestos, dust, and other respirable toxins can lead to various occupational illnesses. Employers must protect employees by complying with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety standards that pertain to auto industry, such as the occupational noise exposure regulation.
• Overexertion – Auto mechanics often work long hours, standing for most of the day. This can lead to sprains, strains, and musculoskeletal injuries due to overexertion.
• Repetitive stress injuries – Bending in awkward positions, over time, can lead to repetitive stress injuries. Automotive technicians are at risk for this type of injury due to the nature of their job which involves bending, twisting, pushing, and pulling.
• Slip, trip, and fall injuries – When other auto mechanics leave parts lying around in the walkways or do not clean up their work bays, it can lead to slip, trip, and fall accidents. Uncleaned spills can also cause workers to suffer fall injuries.