Auto Repair & Body Shops Workers' Comp
Workers' Comp That Fits Your Auto Shop
Competitive coverage for auto repair shops, body shops, tire centers, and specialty automotive services across 23 states.
Workers' Compensation for Auto Repair & Body Shops
Workers' compensation insurance for auto repair shops is a policy that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits for mechanics, body shop technicians, and automotive service employees injured on the job from lifts, chemicals, tools, and heavy parts. Auto repair workers' comp typically costs $3-$8 per $100 of payroll, with body shops paying slightly higher rates due to paint booth and chemical exposure risks. A 5-person shop with $250,000 in payroll might pay $7,500-$20,000 annually. Auto body repair (class code 8393) is classified separately from general auto repair (codes 8389/8397) because body work involves different risks including paint booths, chemical exposure, and panel work — correct classification matters for accurate pricing. We work with carriers familiar with automotive repair risks to get you the most competitive rates.
Why Auto Repair & Body Shops Need Workers' Comp
- ! Mechanics face daily risks from lifts, jacks, power tools, and heavy parts
- ! Chemical exposure from paints, solvents, brake fluid, and exhaust
- ! Required by law in most states for businesses with employees
- ! Franchise agreements and dealership contracts typically require coverage
- ! Protects your shop from employee injury lawsuits
Common Auto Repair & Body Shops Claims
- ⚠ Back and muscle injuries from lifting heavy parts and equipment
- ⚠ Burns from exhaust systems, welding, and hot surfaces
- ⚠ Chemical exposure and skin reactions from automotive fluids
- ⚠ Eye injuries from grinding, welding, and flying debris
- ⚠ Hand and finger injuries from tools and moving parts
- ⚠ Vehicle falling off lift or jack accidents
Workers' Comp Class Codes for Auto Repair & Body Shops
The correct class code determines your premium rate. We'll assign the right code for your state and operations.
| Code | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8389 | Auto or Truck Repair Shops or Garages — No Retail | — |
| 8393 | Automobile Body Repair | — |
| 8397 | Automobile Garage or Repair Shop | — |
| 8044 | Automobile Service Centers | — |
| 3303 | Automobile Bumper — Straightening & Repair | — |
| 3821 | Automobile Dismantling | — |
What Affects Your Auto Repair & Body Shops Workers' Comp Cost?
Type of shop — general repair vs. body shop vs. specialty
Total payroll for all employees
Number of lifts and type of equipment used
Claims history and safety practices
Whether employees do any towing or road service
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does workers' comp cost for an auto repair shop? +
Auto repair workers' comp typically costs $3-$8 per $100 of payroll. Body shops may be slightly higher due to paint and chemical exposure risks. A 5-person shop with $250,000 in payroll might pay $7,500-$20,000 annually.
Does workers' comp cover my mechanics if they test drive a customer car? +
Workers' comp covers injuries sustained during the course of employment, which includes test drives. However, damage to the customer's vehicle would be covered by your garage keepers liability policy, not workers' comp.
What if I'm an owner-mechanic working on cars myself? +
In most states, business owners can elect to include or exclude themselves from workers' comp. If you're working on cars alongside your employees, including yourself provides personal injury protection. We help you decide based on your situation.
Are auto body shops classified differently than general repair? +
Yes. Auto body repair (code 8393) is classified separately from general auto repair (8389/8397) because body work involves different risks like paint booths, chemical exposure, and panel work. Correct classification matters for accurate pricing.
Auto Repair & Body Shops Workers' Comp — Available in 23 States
We're licensed to provide workers' compensation quotes in the following states:
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