Injured? Someone Might Be Watching You

If you are injured in an accident or at work and have a significant financial claim, chances are you may be under surveillance at some point during your recovery.

According to Steinberg Law Firm attorney Adam Greene, insurance companies are looking for any information to use to deny benefits and reduce the amount they must pay out. They regularly hire private investigators to surveil injury victims to verify the severity of their injuries.

With the advent of smartphones, it does not take heavy video equipment to capture footage covertly of injury victims in their yard or in public places.

Unfortunately, sometimes the investigators find that claimants are not as severely injured as they say.

“We have had several cases where the clients were not truthful about their injuries, and this was discovered by investigators. Lying about an injury is never a good idea,” says Greene. “It is important to be truthful. If you are caught lying, this can lead to serious criminal charges for insurance fraud.”

Misrepresenting the facts, or lying, can also call into question your case overall and limit the compensation you are entitled to by undermining your case. It is difficult to go before a jury or judge if you have been shown to be untrustworthy.

To ensure your injuries are compensated and your case is not questioned, attorney Greene suggests the following:

1. Always be truthful about your injuries. If you say you cannot drive and are videotaped driving, that is a problem for your case.
2. Document your injuries with your medical providers and be sure their records are accurate. Many healthcare providers do not keep accurate records.
3. Do not post on social media. We have seen clients say they have a terrible back injury and then post pictures of themselves rock climbing, riding dune buggies, or carrying six overloaded grocery bags.
4. Do not try to handle a severe injury case on your own. Innocent comments you make to an insurance company or employer can be turned against you to show you are not as seriously injured as you reported.
5. Do not overdo your activity. Be cognizant of your pain level. Being more active than your pain would suggest can be used against you.

If you are injured and are tempted to exaggerate your injuries to secure greater compensation, be aware of the consequences. Having the advice of an experienced injury or workers’ compensation lawyer can help you secure the compensation you are entitled to. Call the Steinberg Law Firm at 843-720-2800 for a free consultation and no fee to work on your case until we collect compensation for you.