Automobile mechanics are prone to many kinds of on-the-job injuries from dealing with heavy machinery and harsh chemicals all day. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, mechanics suffered 9,940 non-fatal job-related injuries. If you are a mechanic who has been injured on the job, a Georgia workers’ compensation attorney can get you the help you need.
Common Injuries to Auto Mechanics
A garage is often a hot, noisy place filled with equipment that can be hazardous, and oftentimes, wounds sustained in that environment can instantly become dirty and become infected. These are some of the common injuries seen among mechanics:
- Eye damage from debris caused by welding and grinding
- Muscle strains from lifting heavy parts or bending at odd angles for long time periods
- Chemical burns from fluids that go into a car engine
- Falls from tripping on floor spills
A well-run garage should hold periodic safety training and emphasize the importance of using equipment like gloves, protective eyewear, heavy boots, etc. OSHA standards of workplace safety should be followed. For example, the floor should be kept clean and free of debris. Lighting needs to be adequate. There should be breaks. Spills should be cleaned up immediately.
In the event of an injury, everyone in the garage should know and follow basic first aid measures, and treatment should be sought immediately.
Immediate Actions After Experiencing an Injury
If an injury occurs, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention. The accident should be reported to the supervisor. It’s important to document the injury and the events surrounding it. A detailed report of the injury is critical to getting your workers’ compensation claim started properly and expediting its handling.
When reporting the claim, remember to include:
- Specific details about the exact location
- Who was nearby and might have seen or heard the accident
- Any pains, scrapes, cuts, possibly broken bones, soft tissue injuries like back or knee strain
The quicker you turn in the report of the injury, the quicker the claim will be set up and processed. If you are off work due to the injury for as many as seven days you have a legitimate claim. You will be entitled to payments equal to two-thirds of your regular wages, coverage of your medical expenses, and reimbursement for things like travel expenses and /or physical therapy.
Types of Workers’ Compensation Claims
There are several different types of compensation claims available to an injured auto mechanic. Temporary disability is a given, but depending on the success of your medical treatment, permanent disability may be needed.
Get Help From an Experienced Workers’ Comp Lawyer
The experienced workers’ compensation attorney at Parson Law Group will be able to negotiate on your behalf, to ensure you get all the benefits you are entitled to while you recover your health. If the employer disputes the claim, the claim is denied, or the employer retaliates, you want a skilled attorney in your corner. Call us today if you’d like to know your options.