Auto Industry Workers

Workers’ Compensation for the Automotive Industry

The automotive industry is vast and includes various sectors such as manufacturing, assembly, maintenance, and repair. Due to the wide range of activities involved, the number of injuries can vary significantly depending on factors such as workplace safety measures, regulations, and industry practices.

In the United States, for example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) compiles data on workplace injuries and illnesses. According to their data, in private industry for automotive service technicians and mechanics, there were approximately 9,940 nonfatal injury and illness cases involving days away from work in 2020.

As of May 2020, there were 620,110 people employed in this occupation. If you are one of the 620K workers in the automotive industry, you have been injured at work, and can no longer perform your job requirements, you may be entitled to compensation.

Contact Martin Law today so we can help you with your Workers’ Compensation claim for your injuries. With over 40 years of experience in Workers’ Compensation, we are one of the largest workers’ comp law firms in Philadelphia and southeast Pennsylvania that represent injured/disabled workers. 

Call us at 215-587-8400 for your free consultation. 

Types of Automotive Industry Injuries

Musculoskeletal Injuries: Workers in the automotive industry often perform repetitive tasks, such as lifting heavy parts or using vibrating tools, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders like back pain, strains, sprains, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Falls and Slips: In manufacturing plants or repair shops, there is a risk of slips, trips, and falls due to wet or oily surfaces, cluttered workspaces, or inadequate lighting. Falls from heights, such as from ladders or elevated platforms, can also occur.

Cuts and Lacerations: Handling sharp tools, metal parts, or working with cutting equipment like grinders and saws increases the risk of cuts and lacerations. These injuries can range from minor to severe, depending on the circumstances.

Burns: Automotive manufacturing processes involve working with various heat sources, such as welding torches, soldering irons, and hot materials. Workers can be at risk of burns from direct contact with hot surfaces or exposure to hot fluids.

Chemical Exposure: Automotive workers may encounter hazardous chemicals, such as paints, solvents, adhesives, and cleaning agents. Improper handling or lack of adequate protective measures can lead to skin irritation, respiratory problems, or chemical burns.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Continuous exposure to high noise levels from engines, power tools, or other equipment without proper hearing protection can cause permanent hearing damage over time.

Vehicle Accidents: Workers who operate or repair vehicles are exposed to the risk of accidents on the road or within the workplace. This includes collisions, being struck by moving vehicles or equipment, or getting caught in machinery.

If you’re injured on the job, your employer is obligated to pay for your lost wages and medical care. Contact us after your accident or injury so we can help you get the benefits you deserve.

Our lawyers will educate you about your rights to workers’ compensation and ensure your benefits are calculated correctly. We can also explore your options to pursue a lawsuit against third parties for negligence, such as others who caused your accident or a defect on someone’s property that lead to your injury.

Hire a PA Workers’ Comp Lawyer for Your Work-Related Injuries

Don’t assume that Workers’ Comp covers you in the event of an injury at work. Contact the experienced lawyers at Martin Law who will fight for you. 

Many automotive companies are located right here in Pennsylvania. If you work for one of these companies or even work for a company that is located outside of Pennsylvania but conducts business in Pennsylvania, our attorneys can help you. We have offices in Philadelphia, Malvern, Reading, Bristol, Allentown, Sunbury, and Harrisburg. Your initial consultation is free, and we take no fees unless we secure benefits and/or a settlement on your behalf.

Call us at 215-587-8400 for your free consultation. 

Here are some key points to understand about workers’ compensation in the automotive industry:

Coverage: Workers’ compensation laws generally cover all employees, including those in the automotive industry, regardless of fault. It applies to various job roles within the industry, including auto mechanics, assembly line workers, painters, drivers, and administrative staff.

Benefits: The specific benefits provided under workers’ compensation vary depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the injury. However, common benefits include:

Medical Expenses: Coverage for medical treatments, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitation therapies related to the injury or illness.

Disability Benefits: Compensation for lost wages during the period of temporary or permanent disability resulting from the work-related injury.

Vocational Rehabilitation: Assistance in retraining or finding alternative employment if the worker is unable to return to their previous job due to the injury.

Death Benefits: Financial support for the dependents of an employee who dies as a result of a work-related incident.

Employer Responsibilities: Employers in the automotive industry have a legal obligation to provide workers’ compensation coverage for their employees. This involves obtaining the necessary insurance policies, reporting workplace injuries, and cooperating with the claims process.

Filing a Claim: In the event of a work-related injury, employees should report the incident to their employer as soon as possible. The employer will provide the necessary forms and guidelines to initiate the workers’ compensation claim process. It is important to adhere to the designated deadlines and follow the prescribed procedures for filing a claim.

Legal Protection: Workers’ compensation laws generally provide legal protection to both employees and employers. Employees typically waive their right to sue their employer for damages related to the work-related injury or illness, in exchange for the guaranteed benefits provided under the workers’ compensation system. Employers, on the other hand, are protected from most civil lawsuits arising from workplace accidents.

We believe that workers should be treated fairly—with dignity and respect. For us, it just comes down to doing the right thing for the people who give so much of themselves each and every day. That’s why we specialize in Workers’ Compensation cases. Nothing is more important to us than protecting workers and their families. We are the law firm for workers.Call us at 215-587-8400 for your free consultation.