Michigan Court Rules Oil Pit Hazards Open and Obvious

The Michigan appeals court says hazards usually are open and obvious at oil change shops.

In a 3-0 decision, the court agreed with a Lake County judge who dismissed a lawsuit filed by a man who fell into a pit while taking his car for an oil change.

The incident happened five years ago at Pat’s Pit Stop in Baldwin. Robert Thomas got out of the car to say hello to the owner when he fell into the pit under his vehicle. He suffered several injuries, including nerve damage to his left shoulder.

The appeals court says Thomas knew about the pit and would have noticed it was uncovered if he hadn’t waved at the owner.