A warning about video surveillance and activity checks while on workers’ comp.
We sometimes have clients that get caught performing activities that are inconsistent with work restrictions set by their doctors. This can result in a cut-off of medical and wage loss benefits. Insurance companies do not believe people who say they cannot work but also maintain an active lifestyle. One question we frequently get from potential clients is what are you allowed to do while on workers’ comp in Michigan. Here is a warning about insurance companies who spy on people.
Insurance companies routinely hire private investigators to follow people and perform video and photo surveillance. They want to find some proof that a workers’ comp claim is not valid. Evidence obtained is often taken out-of-context and used as a justification for stopping payment. It is common to catch people at the grocery store, gym, or family gathering.
It is also common for claims adjusters to make snap decisions just because something was posted on social media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube. We have seen claims get denied because someone is smiling in a picture on the Internet. So, what are you allowed to do while on workers’ comp in Michigan? Anything that is not inconsistent with a claim of disability.
What are you allowed to do while on workers’ comp in Michigan?
Individuals on workers’ comp in Michigan are allowed to do anything they want. This includes social and recreational activities. Problems occur when the insurance company believes a person is no longer disabled and uses these activities as a justification for a cut-off. Watch out for video surveillance and activity checks.
We tell our clients to go on with their lives but remain cautious. Though you are allowed to do anything while on workers’ comp in Michigan it is important to know that you must refrain from participating in activities that are inconsistent with work restrictions or claimed disability. Be careful when out in public or around the home.
Private investigators 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. Private investigators follow people to medical appointments and watch them for hours before and after.
Though you are allowed to do anything while on workers’ comp in Michigan, we recommend not doing anything that is inconsistent with a claimed disability. Watch out for strange vehicles sitting outside your home. Never accept friend requests or messages from people you do not know on the Internet. It is a good idea to temporarily shut down social media accounts.
Insurance companies are getting bolder with their surveillance techniques. We have even seen news reports of drones being flown over people’s houses. It is a good idea to hire a workers’ comp lawyer if benefits have been disputed based upon an investigation. There is no fee to evaluate a case and many of these cut-offs can be defeated in court.
Injured while on-the-job in Michigan? Contact our lawyers now
If you were injured while on the job in Michigan and have questions about what you are allowed to do on workers’ comp or have any other questions about your claim, call now or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. Our attorneys are here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand Michigan work injury laws and what happens after someone 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:
