Our fraud message is clear – employers must pursue any and all workers’ comp claims where there is even a hint fraud is taking place. Be bold – investigate. Lately, video-taping seems to be working well. Make sure to check state law though, because in some states, like OH and CO are more restrictive.
Videotape showing a Buffalo man repairing a BMW led to his arrest for collecting $3,850 in workers' compensation benefits he accepted after testifying he was physically unable to walk without assistance or even go grocery shopping.
The New York State Insurance Department reported the individual was arrested following a joint investigation by the Department's Frauds Bureau and Travelers Insurance Company investigators.
The individual, who was released pending a future court hearing, started collecting workers' comp benefits after suffering a back injury while working at a salt factory. Last year, he testified at a workers' comp hearing that the injury prevented him from working or engaging in normal activities, like going to the grocery store.
However, surveillance investigators captured videotapes of the individual demonstrating him working on a car and moving about without assistance. (workersxzcompxzkit)
The man was arrested by Buffalo police and charged with grand larceny and workers' comp fraud.
He could be sentenced to up to seven years in prison if he is convicted.
Author Robert Elliott, executive vice president, Amaxx Risks Solutions, Inc. has worked successfully for 20 years with many industries to reduce Workers' Compensation costs, including airlines, health care, manufacturing, printing/publishing, pharmaceuticals, retail, hospitality and manufacturing. He can be contacted at: Robert_Elliott@ReduceYourWorkersComp.com or 860-553-6604.
Podcast/Webcast: Claim Handling Strategies
Click Here:
http://www.workerscompkit.com/gallagher/podcast/ Claim_Handling_Strategies/index.php
Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws vary. You should consult with your insurance broker or agent about workers' comp issues.
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