Auto mechanics perform physically demanding work that often involves heavy lifting, repetitive motion, hazardous equipment, and working around vehicles on a daily basis. Whether you work in an auto repair shop, dealership service department, fleet maintenance facility, or garage, workplace injuries can occur unexpectedly and have lasting consequences.
At Stern & Cohen, we represent auto mechanics, automotive technicians, diesel mechanics, maintenance technicians, and other skilled workers throughout Pennsylvania. If you were injured while repairing, inspecting, lifting, or servicing vehicles, our Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to help.
Common Causes of Auto Mechanic Injuries
Mechanics work around heavy tools, machinery, vehicle parts, and hazardous conditions that can increase the risk of workplace injuries.
Common causes of auto mechanic injuries include:
- Heavy lifting accidents
- Repetitive bending, kneeling, and reaching
- Slip and fall accidents
- Falls from ladders or elevated work areas
- Crush injuries involving vehicles or equipment
- Tool and machinery accidents
- Burns from hot surfaces, engines, or chemicals
- Exposure to hazardous substances
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Falling parts or equipment
Whether performing routine maintenance, engine repairs, brake work, or diagnostic services, mechanics face injury risks throughout the workday.
Common Auto Mechanic Injuries
The physical demands of automotive repair work can result in both traumatic injuries and repetitive stress conditions.
Common mechanic injuries include:
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee injuries
- Wrist and hand injuries
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Herniated discs
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Slip and fall injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Chemical exposure injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Burns and chemical exposure injuries
Many mechanics require physical therapy, surgery, rehabilitation, and time away from work after a serious injury.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Mechanics
Pennsylvania workers’ compensation benefits may be available if you were injured while performing automotive repair or maintenance duties.
Workers’ compensation benefits may cover:
- Medical treatment
- Surgery and hospital bills
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Prescription medications
- Wage-loss benefits
- Specific loss benefits for permanent injuries
- Workers’ compensation settlements
Whether your injury occurred while lifting a transmission, repairing a vehicle, operating equipment, or performing routine maintenance, you may be entitled to benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mechanics receive workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Most auto mechanics and automotive technicians are covered by Pennsylvania workers’ compensation and may qualify for benefits after a work-related injury.
Are repetitive stress injuries covered by workers’ compensation?
Yes. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder injuries, and back injuries caused by repetitive work activities may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
What if I was injured while lifting a heavy vehicle part?
Lifting injuries are among the most common mechanic workers’ compensation claims. If you were injured while lifting an engine component, transmission, tire, or other heavy part, you may be entitled to benefits.
Contact a Pennsylvania Mechanic Injury Lawyer
A workplace injury can leave mechanics facing medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about the future. If you were injured while working as a mechanic, automotive technician, diesel mechanic, or maintenance worker, the attorneys at Stern & Cohen are ready to help.
Contact Stern & Cohen today for a free consultation to discuss your workers’ compensation claim and learn about your legal options