Can I Sue a Mechanic or Auto Repair Shop for Negligence in Phoenix?

When you take your car to an auto repair shop or mechanic, you do so with the trust that they’ll fix the problem safely and properly. But what happens when a repair job makes things worse? If a mechanic’s mistake leads to an accident or additional damage to your vehicle, you might be curious as to whether you can sue them for negligence. The short answer? Yes, but proving negligence in an auto repair case can be complex. That’s where the experienced attorneys at Plattner Verderame Arizona Injury Lawyers come in.

What is mechanic or auto repair shop negligence?

Negligence happens when a mechanic or repair shop fails to perform their duties with reasonable care, resulting in harm to you and/or your vehicle. This could mean the following:

• Failing to properly fix a mechanical issue
• Installing the wrong parts or using defective parts
• Not tightening bolts or securing parts correctly
• Overlooking safety concerns, like faulty brakes
• Performing unnecessary repairs and overcharging you

If a mechanic’s mistake causes you to suffer injuries in a car accident, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

When can I sue a Phoenix mechanic or auto repair shop?

You may be eligible to file a lawsuit against a mechanic or repair shop if their negligence causes any of the following.

Property damage

If a repair shop’s mistakes cause additional damage to your car, you may be able to sue for the cost of repairs or replacement. For example, if a mechanic improperly installs a belt and it snaps while driving, leading to serious engine damage, they may be liable for the cost of a new engine or vehicle.

Personal injury

If a mechanic’s negligence leads to an accident that causes you injuries, you may be able to sue for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. For example, if a repair shop fails to properly fix your brakes and you get into an accident, they could be held responsible.

Breach of warranty or contract

Many auto repairs come with warranties or guarantees. If a repair shop promises a specific fix but fails to deliver or causes more damage, you may be able to sue for breach of contract or warranty.

What do I need to prove in a negligence lawsuit?

For a successful Phoenix mechanic or repair shop negligence case, our lawyers work to prove the following four elements:

1. Duty of care. We show that the mechanic or repair shop had a duty to provide competent and safe repairs.
2. Breach of duty. They failed to meet the standard of care expected from a professional mechanic.
3. Causation. Their mistake directly caused you to suffer damages, injuries, or losses.
4. Damages. You suffered harm, like medical bills or lost income.

For example, if a repair shop failed to replace your brakes correctly and you crashed because the brakes failed, our attorneys would demonstrate that their poor workmanship caused the accident and your resulting injuries.

What evidence can support my case?

To help prove your case, you’ll need strong evidence, including:

• Receipts, invoices, and written guarantees from the shop.
• A second mechanic’s opinion showing that the first repair was done incorrectly.
• Pictures and video of the faulty repairs, vehicle damage, or accident scene.
• Testimony from people who saw the accident or have knowledge of the repairs.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

Here in Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit for property damage or personal injury due to mechanic negligence is typically two years from the date of the incident. For liability based on a statute, the deadline can be as short as one year. If you wait too long, you can lose your right to file a claim. Talk to our Phoenix car accident lawyers as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.

How much is my mechanic negligence lawsuit worth?

The amount of compensation to which you may be entitled will depend on the extent of your damages. However, you may be able to recover the following:

• The costs to repair the damages caused by the mechanic’s negligence.
• If the accident caused injuries, you can recover compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and medications.
• If you missed work because of an accident caused by faulty repairs, you may be compensated for lost income or diminished earning capacity.
• Compensation for your pain and suffering, the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.

Can I sue a dealership for bad repairs?

Yes. Dealerships can also be held liable for negligent repair jobs. Many people assume that dealership service departments are more reliable, but they can make mistakes just like independent mechanics. If a dealership’s faulty repairs lead to damage or injury, you have the right to pursue a claim.

What should I do if I suspect mechanic negligence?

If you believe a mechanic or repair shop made a mistake that caused damage or harm, take the following steps.

• If you suspect a safety issue, don’t drive the vehicle.
• Get a second opinion. Have another mechanic inspect the repairs and document any mistakes.
• Keep all receipts, work orders, emails, and warranty information.
• Take photos and videos to document any visible damage or improper repairs.
• You can file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office or the Better Business Bureau.

Finally, contact the Phoenix car accident attorneys at Plattner Verderame Arizona Injury Lawyers to review your case and determine the best course of action.

How can your Phoenix car accident attorneys help with my case?

Proving negligence against a mechanic or repair shop isn’t easy. Auto repair shops often deny responsibility or claim that the damage was unrelated to their work. This is where our personal injury lawyers can help. Our attorneys can:

• Investigate your claim and gather evidence
• Work with auto repair experts to prove negligence
• Negotiate with the repair shop or their insurance company
• File a lawsuit if necessary

Our experienced attorneys understand the frustration of dealing with auto repair negligence. If a mechanic’s mistake has caused you harm, we’re here to help you fight for the compensation to which you’re entitled for your damages and losses.

If you suspect mechanic negligence, don’t wait. Contact Plattner Verderame Arizona Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. We can review your case, explain your rights, and help you take the next steps toward justice. And remember, we don’t get paid unless you win. Please call us or contact us now to schedule your consultation. We have offices in Phoenix and Tempe.