Mechanics fill a much-needed role in society. They make sure cars, trucks, motorcycles, and any other vehicle is working properly and safely. Mechanics require extensive training and hands-on experience.
If you are a mechanic, you are entitled to a non-hostile, comfortable work environment where you can stay focused and be productive. You are protected by state and federal employment laws. If you are a mechanic who has been subjected to workplace discrimination, you can pursue a claim against your employer to recover compensation for your damages.
How a Mechanic May Experience Workplace Discrimination
Workplace discrimination takes many forms and can occur for various reasons. Federal laws prohibit discrimination based on race, religion, gender, color, or age (if 40 or older).
Many states have added laws to prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation. Sometimes discrimination is more discreet than others, so if you think you have suffered workplace discrimination, you should act against the situation.
For example, you are a woman who is the only female mechanic employed by a large trucking company. Remarks are often made about “the woman mechanic” or “can the woman handle the job?” You The male employees often make cat calls and ask you to “fix their problems.” In another scenario, the only black mechanic at a company is often referred to as “that guy” and in small talk coworkers and managers refer to “your people.”
Regardless of how you were discriminated against, you should maintain evidence to support your claim. Document every comment and remark, keep any memos, emails, or texts. Also, digital evidence such as photos, videos, or recordings are beneficial.
Statements from witnesses can also make your claim successful. If you have been subject to workplace discrimination as a mechanic, you have limited time to pursue a claim, so you should speak with an employment law attorney as soon as you can.
Filing a Discrimination Claim as a Mechanic
If you are a mechanic who has suffered discrimination in the workplace, you may want to need to file a claim against your employer. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the state and federal laws that apply to your situation.
Check your employee handbook to familiarize yourself with the proper protocol for your company. Usually, such claims start within the company. You will want to file a complaint with your employer by speaking with a manager, supervisor, or human resources.
Provide copies of all supporting evidence. Take note of the response, and document everything that is said regarding your claim.
If you cannot successfully resolve the matter with your employer and come up with a satisfactory resolution, you should take the claim to the next level. You should file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). You can file the claim online or you can schedule an appointment at your nearest EEOC office.
You will be interviewed by an EEOC representative and your evidence will be reviewed. The representative will then contact your employer and try to resolve the issue. If EEOC finds that the behavior was intended and that there is an ongoing problem or pattern of discrimination, they will most likely suggest that you take the claim to the final level and file a lawsuit against your employer.
An employment law attorney will help you with the claims process. Your lawyer will investigate your claim and gather the supporting evidence and documentation your claim needs to succeed. An attorney will work to try to resolve the matter and reach a settlement out of court if possible. Documentation, such as video footage, emails, memos. Witness statements and other evidence can also help your case.
Help With a Discrimination Claim
If you have suffered workplace discrimination as a mechanic, you should enlist the help of an employment law attorney who handles workplace discrimination claims in your area. With the help of a lawyer, you are much more likely to succeed with your claim and recover compensation for your damages.
Different attorneys have different payment plans, so be sure to ask your lawyer about his or her requirements. Some lawyers require a retainer to be paid but others will take the case on a contingency basis.
To ensure your claim is underway before time runs out, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form. You will be contacted by an employment law attorney’s office who represents clients who have suffered workplace discrimination in your state. Do not put off getting your claim underway.
