When you drop your car off at the repair shop, you trust it will be returned in better condition than when you left it. Yet, what happens when the unthinkable occurs, and your vehicle suffers further damage while under the mechanic’s care?
When your car is at a repair shop, various property damage can occur. This could range from minor scratches and dents to major structural damage.
Scratches and small dents are the most common types of damage. While these may seem insignificant, they can still cost quite a bit to fix. Depending on the depth and length of the scratch, you could be looking at anywhere from $50 to $500 per scratch. Depending on their size and location, dents can cost between $50 and $150 per dent for paintless dent repair.
Significant damage, such as structural or mechanical damage, is less common but far more costly. For instance, if the mechanic accidentally damages the engine or transmission, the repair costs could cost thousands of dollars, depending on your car’s make and model.
Rarely, your car could be vandalized or items stolen while in the repair shop. The cost of these damages varies significantly depending on what was stolen or the extent of the vandalism.
When your car is damaged at a repair shop, liability arises. In most cases, the repair shop is generally responsible for any damage that occurs while your car is in their care, custody, and control.
The repair shop can be liable for damages resulting from their negligence, for instance, if a mechanic dropped a tool on your car, causing a dent, or if the vehicle was left unlocked and items were stolen.
However, determining liability can be complex. If the damage is due to factors beyond the shop’s control, such as a natural disaster or a third-party criminal act, they might not be held responsible.
In terms of recovery, you may be able to claim the cost of repairs for the additional damage. In some cases, you might also be eligible for diminished value damages. This is compensation for reducing your car’s resale value due to the damage.
If your personal belongings were stolen from the car while it was in the shop, you could claim their replacement value. However, this usually requires proof of ownership and the item’s value.
A Media Car Accident Lawyer at Eckell Sparks Can Help You Recover
You never expect your car to be in worse shape after visiting a repair shop, but it can happen. Property damages like these can also be costly. Discuss your legal options with a Media car accident lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. Call us at 610-565-3701 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.