December 5th, 2024
If you trusted a mechanic to fix your vehicle only to get it back with the same or new problems, you’re likely wondering if the harm they’ve done to it opens them up to liability, especially if you got into an accident because of that faulty repair job. This happens more often than you might suspect, and there’s a clear answer to your question.
You can sue a mechanic if they were negligent in repairing or servicing your vehicle and that negligence resulted in damage to you or your vehicle. Of course, this means proving that the mechanic failed to do their job with a reasonable standard of care.
Proving Negligence on the Part of a Mechanic
It’s important to show the mechanic’s faulty work directly caused the damages you experienced. In other words, it’s not enough to say that the mechanic worked on your vehicle and then you were involved in a crash. You must demonstrate that the mechanic’s work was the direct cause of your crash, injuries, or property damage.
Attorneys representing clients filing lawsuits typically have many potential ways to prove this. For example, they might have a crash expert or another reputable mechanic examine the vehicle, along with the circumstances of the crash, and connect the dots needed to prove the mechanic’s failure to repair or service your vehicle with a reasonable standard of care caused the crash.
Remember that the intentions of the mechanic are irrelevant to the case you’re making when seeking compensation for your damages. Personal injury lawsuits aren’t seeking to prove that the allegedly at-fault party (the defendant) deliberately meant to impair your vehicle’s performance or to cause you harm. You’re simply asserting that the mechanic made a mistake or acted carelessly, and that those actions resulted in your injuries.
How Mechanics Get It Wrong
Mechanics can make any number of mistakes when working on a vehicle. Careless actions by a mechanic can include:
- Failure to fix an existing problem
- Introducing another vehicular problem while repairing the original one
- Using the wrong part on a vehicle
- Failing to properly reassemble vehicle parts after a repair
These are just a few examples of auto repair negligence. There are many scenarios that could make a mechanic liable for the damages suffered by an injury victim.
Common Signs of Negligent Mechanic Work
Recognizing the signs of negligent mechanic work can help you act quickly to address potential problems and hold the responsible parties accountable. Here are some common red flags:
1. Persistent Warning Lights
If warning lights on your dashboard (e.g., check engine, ABS, or oil pressure lights) remain illuminated after a repair, it could be a sign that the mechanic failed to address the root cause of the issue or caused additional problems during the repair process.
2. Strange Noises
Unusual sounds coming from your vehicle after a repair, such as grinding, squealing, or knocking, may signal improperly installed or faulty components. For example:
- Grinding noises could indicate issues with brakes or wheel bearings.
- Squealing sounds might suggest poorly installed belts or loose parts.
3. Worsening Performance
If your vehicle’s performance declines after a repair, this is a clear sign something may have gone wrong. Examples include:
- Reduced acceleration or poor handling
- Difficulty braking or increased stopping distances
- Erratic engine behavior, such as stalling or misfiring
4. Unusual Odors
Strange smells, such as burning oil, fuel, or rubber, can indicate a serious problem. These odors may result from:
- Oil or fluid leaks caused by improperly sealed components
- Overheating due to neglected cooling system repairs
5. Poor Craftsmanship or Visible Issues
Upon inspection, you might notice clear signs of negligent workmanship, such as:
- Loose or missing bolts
- Worn or incorrect parts installed instead of new ones
- Fluids leaking from recently repaired areas
6. Recurring Problems
If the same issue reappears shortly after the repair, it could mean the mechanic failed to properly diagnose and fix the problem. For example:
- Repeated brake issues may indicate improper installation of brake pads or calipers.
- Electrical failures might result from careless wiring or overlooked damage.
7. Unexpected Expenses or “Band-Aid Fixes”
A mechanic who recommends additional repairs immediately after completing a job might not have fully resolved the initial problem. Temporary fixes instead of thorough repairs can also indicate negligence.
8. Lack of Communication or Documentation
If the mechanic cannot clearly explain what repairs were made or fails to provide proper documentation, such as invoices or itemized receipts, this could signal carelessness or dishonesty.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you experience any of these issues after having your vehicle repaired, it’s important to document the problems and seek a second opinion from a reputable mechanic. If you suspect that a mechanic’s negligence contributed to a crash, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and determine whether you have grounds for a claim.
Negligent mechanic work can have serious consequences, including vehicle damage, accidents, and injuries. Acting quickly to address red flags can protect your safety and strengthen your case if you decide to pursue legal action.
Considerations After Possible Auto Repair Negligence
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, and you suspect that a mechanic’s negligence is responsible, remember that preserving the evidence will be key to proving your case. Don’t attempt to fix your vehicle without first consulting an attorney, so they can document the condition of your vehicle at the time of the crash.
Make sure you seek medical treatment as soon as possible after your injury occurs. Personal injury lawsuits are only successful when clear damages have been suffered by the person filing the suit. If you don’t establish that you’ve suffered injuries, you’ll have no damages on which to base your claim.
Contacting an attorney as soon as possible after your crash will help ensure that you do what’s needed to build a solid case while also helping you avoid common pitfalls people encounter when filing lawsuits.
Need Legal Help for an Auto Repair Negligence Case? Get Berg!
At Berg Injury Lawyers, we have years of experience representing injury victims throughout Northern California. To schedule a free consultation, contact our car accident lawyers today.
Originally published March 8, 2021.
