A routine stop at the car wash should leave your vehicle clean and shining not result in serious injuries. Unfortunately, car wash accidents happen more often than many realize, and they can cause damage to vehicles as well as injuries to customers and workers. At Hillstone Law, we represent victims of car wash accidents in California and fight to hold negligent businesses accountable.
Common Causes of Car Wash Accidents
Car washes involve heavy machinery, powerful water pressure, and moving vehicles. When safety is overlooked, accidents can occur, including:
- Slip-and-fall accidents on wet, soapy floors
- Vehicle collisions caused by conveyor belt malfunctions
- Injuries from defective car wash equipment
- Workers struck by vehicles entering or exiting the wash
- Electrical hazards due to poor maintenance
- Property damage to vehicles caused by faulty brushes or dryers
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has documented numerous workplace hazards in car wash facilities, emphasizing the risks to both workers and customers.
Source: https://www.osha.gov/
Types of Injuries from Car Wash Accidents
Victims of car wash accidents may suffer:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Back and neck injuries from falls or collisions
- Electrical shock injuries
- Head trauma or concussions
- Lacerations and bruises from machinery malfunctions
- Whiplash or spinal cord injuries from vehicle impacts
Even minor accidents can lead to costly medical treatment, lost wages, and long-term complications.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Depending on the circumstances, several parties may be responsible for a car wash accident:
- Car wash owners and operators for unsafe conditions
- Equipment manufacturers if defective machinery caused injuries
- Property owners for failure to maintain safe premises
- Employers if workers were placed in unsafe conditions
Under California premises liability law, businesses must keep their property safe for customers. When they fail, they can be held financially responsible.
What to Do After a Car Wash Accident
If you are injured at a car wash:
- Seek medical treatment immediately.
- Report the incident to the car wash manager or owner.
- Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage.
- Collect witness information.
- Do not sign waivers or accept settlements before speaking with a lawyer.
- Contact a car wash accident attorney as soon as possible.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
At Hillstone Law, we aggressively represent victims of car wash accidents across California. Our legal team will:
- Investigate the accident and determine liability
- Work with experts to prove equipment defects or safety violations
- Negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation
- File lawsuits when businesses refuse to take responsibility
We pursue damages for:
- Medical expenses and future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car wash accident in California, Hillstone Law is here to fight for your recovery.
