Warning for individuals on workers’ comp and how surveillance video can be used against them in court.
Did you know that cutting your lawn is a crime? We didn’t either. Here is the true story of one of our clients who had the misfortune of turning on his lawnmower.
We represent a man who has collected workers’ comp benefits for several years. His hand was crushed resulting in a medical condition known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Symptoms of this condition include throbbing pain, swelling, weakness, skin changes, muscle spasms, joint stiffness, and sensitivity to touch or cold.
The insurance company got tired of paying workers’ comp benefits so they hired a private investigator to follow him. He was caught on video doing some yard work and now his benefits are in jeopardy of getting cut-off.
It does not matter that his doctor suggested increasing physical activity. It also does not matter that doing yard work for a short period of time is much different than working 40+ hours each week.
Private investigators are routinely hired to perform video surveillance. Insurance companies want to find some proof that a workers’ comp claim might not be legitimate. Video is often taken out of context and used to stop benefits.
We tell our clients to be mindful of their activities and not give the insurance company any excuse to stop benefits. Social media accounts should also be closed or made private.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
The insurance company followed you into where?
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by Rubbermaid Products. 