Insurance Companies, Private Investigators, and Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
Under Missouri law, people who are injured in workplace accidents or who develop illnesses related to their work environments are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits on a no-fault basis. As an injured worker, it is important to remember that workers’ compensation insurers are for-profit companies that make money by paying out as little as possible on the claims they receive. As a result, they will do everything they can to avoid paying out on your claim, including hiring a private investigator to observe you and find out if your injuries are as serious as you claim them to be.Here are some of the things you can do to ensure that you get the benefits you deserve. For more information, call our office today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Missouri workers’ compensation lawyer.
Do Not Push Yourself During Your Recovery
After an injury, you may be anxious to return to your regular activities as soon as possible. Having injury-related limitations can keep you from exercising, playing sports, playing with your kids, or even completing household chores. As your condition starts to improve, you might be tempted to try to get back in the gym or coach your child’s soccer game. However, engaging in these activities before you should may result in serious complications, as well as problems with your claim. If an insurer’s investigator sees you heading into a fitness center, the insurer can use this as evidence that you should be able to work. Be sure not to push yourself past the limits set by your doctor.
Attend All of Your Doctor’s Appointments and Follow Your Treatment Plan
It’s also extremely important that you attend all of your doctor’s appointments and actively participate in your treatment plan. This means going for follow-up visits even if you think your injuries are getting better, and following all recommendations regarding physical therapy, bed rest, or medications. While your medical records are private, the insurance company could likely request them, and a private investigator could very well be observing you to see whether you are attending your appointments and engaging in follow-up care.
Watch What You Post on Social Media
Investigators may also check your social media profiles for signs that you are not as injured as you claim to be. They will check photos, posts, tags, check-ins, and more to see if you have been traveling, playing sports, partying, or engaging in other activities that would be inappropriate given your injuries. It is often wise to stay off social media altogether during your recovery and the workers’ compensation claim process.
Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with a Missouri Workers’ Compensation Attorney
At The Law Firm of Webster & Carlton, we’re committed to helping people who have been hurt in workplace accidents obtain the benefits to which they are entitled under Missouri law. We maintain offices in Springfield and Joplin and offer completely free, no-obligation consultations. To schedule an appointment with a lawyer, call our office today at (417) 545-3775 in Springfield and (417) 545-3775 in Joplin or contact us online.