An auto mechanic in Montevideo, Minnesota recently died during an accident that occurred while on the job. The accident occurred when the owner of the auto shop stepped on a truck’s accelerator causing a worker to be pinned between the pickup truck and a tool chest that was located against a concrete wall. The mechanic was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. It has been reported that the shop owner is unlikely to be charged because the of the accidental nature of the death. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that mechanics incur over 15,000 injuries each year, which makes being a mechanic the 14th most dangerous profession in terms of the number of injuries.
Reasons Why Mechanics Face an Increased Number of Accidents
Some of the various reasons that mechanics face an increased number of injuries while on the job include the following:
- Automobiles that fall off lifts
- Being struck by or against equipment and objects
- Bending for long periods of time
- Collisions with motor vehicles
- Coming into contact with hot engines and exhaust systems
- Defective equipment or equipment that is not properly maintained
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals
- Exposure to noise that is over 90 decibels
- Lifting heavy objects
- Overexertion from excessive periods of straining
- Slip and fall accidents
Common Types of Work Injuries
There are some common types of work injuries experienced by auto mechanics, which include the following:
- Cumulative Trauma Disorders: These injuries include overexertion, strains, and sprains. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that one in five mechanics experiences these types of injuries.
- Cuts and Burns: Auto mechanics experience a large number of equipment difficulties that can leave cuts and burns. The Industrial Health Journal reports that cuts are the most common type of injury faced by mechanics.
- Toxic Injuries: Mechanics are at risk of various long-term illnesses due to exposure to various industrial chemicals. This chemical exposure can result in various cancers and neurological disorders.
Safety Advice for Mechanics
There are some important safety precautions that mechanics should follow to avoid being injured while on the job. These precautions include:
- Following all applicable safety instructions and warning signs.
- Keeping a fire extinguisher close at hand while working.
- Never smoking while working on a vehicle.
- Never working under a motor vehicle unless the vehicle’s engine is off.
- Staying away from chemicals while one’s body is unprotected.
- Taking precautions that clothing or jewelry do not become stuck in a vehicle.
- Using another worker as a “spotter” while working under a vehicle.
- Using insulated tools while working on a motor vehicle.
- Wearing the appropriate safety gear while working on a vehicle.
Obtain the Services of a Minnesota Accident Attorney
Accidents that occur at auto mechanic shops can be serious and often result in many severe injuries and even fatalities. If you or a loved one is harmed in this type of accident, it is essential to contact a seasoned accident attorney. Attorneys Tim O’Keeffe, Tatum O’Brien and Sara Monson at O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss understand just how serious these accidents are and will fight for the compensation that you deserve. Call 701-235-8000 or 877-235-8002 today.
