How insurance companies use surveillance and activity checks to dispute payment work injury insurance benefits.
We recently had a client who was caught on video surveillance doing things that were not consistent with his work restrictions. The insurance company is now taking the position that his workers’ comp case has little settlement value because he has not been truthful. Unfortunately, this is a problem in many work injury cases, and it can result in less money being paid. We are frequently asked: Can workers’ comp spy on you in Michigan? The answer is ‘yes,’ and it can mean the difference between winning or losing at trial.
Private investigators are routinely hired to perform video surveillance and activity checks. Insurance companies want to find some proof that a case is not legitimate. Video surveillance is often taken out of context and played in court. It is also common for claims adjusters to make snap decisions about payment just because something was posted on social media. Here are some ways to protect yourself.
Can workers’ comp spy on you in Michigan?
Michigan law permits workers’ comp insurance companies to hire private investigators to spy on disabled employees with a pending case. This so-called “evidence” can be used to dispute a work injury claim. It is important to be aware of surroundings and remain cautious. Do not volunteer personal information and shut down social media accounts.
Watch out for strange vehicles sitting outside your home. Never accept friend requests or messages from people you do not know. Never give the insurance company a bogus excuse to stop payment of insurance benefits.
Does workers’ comp spy on you?
Employees who are hurt on-the-job are routinely followed by private investigators hired by workers’ comp insurance companies to spy on them. The sole reason is to discredit people and stop payment of benefits. Video surveillance is used to record daily activities. Social media will be examined for incriminating comments, videos, and photos.
Be cautious if you have a pending work injury claim
We recommend always being cautious when you have a pending work injury claim. This includes when out in public or around your own home. Private investigators hired by workers’ comp are known to spy on disabled employees and watch people cut the lawn or take out the trash. They will try to peer into open garages and windows. It is also possible that they will talk to neighbors attempting to get personal information. Do not perform any activity that can be used to discredit your work injury claim.
Go on with your life but just be careful
Can workers’ comp spy on you in Michigan? Sure, but we tell our clients to go on with their lives and just be careful. Do not perform activities that are inconsistent with work restrictions. It is also a good idea to stop using social media accounts. Make sure all privacy settings are locked down. Never accept friend requests or messages from people you do not know. If work injury benefits are suddenly disputed, make sure to call an experienced lawyer for help.
Injured while on the job in Michigan? Contact our lawyers for a free consultation
To speak with an experienced attorney about your Michigan work injury claim, call us now, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years and can help you better understand Michigan work injury laws and explain what happens if you or a loved one has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
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 (844) 201-9497 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
How Does A Workers’ Comp Settlement Work?
