Surveillance continues to be an effective way to combat a questionable claim.  Obtaining surveillance video of the subject engaging in activities outside of their restrictions can be a great way to dispute a questionable claim.

Recently, a Cleveland bait shop owner was under investigation for workers’ comp fraud. According to the BWC, the owner collected temporary disability benefits however, continued working at his shop for over 8 months. “Video shows he was involved in the store’s daily operation, which is not permitted while receiving benefits. The owner of Stink’s Bait and Tackle on West 25th Street, was sentenced to 180 days of jail and must pay more than $4,000 in restitution to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.” -Jen Steer, FOX 8 Cleveland

Matrix Investigators proved another example of the importance of surveillance when they worked a case where the subject was off work for over a year with a foot injury.  There were several red flags associated with the claim which included: no witnesses to the accident, doctor shopping, prolonged treatment, etc.  Matrix investigators obtained video of the subject engaging in “normal activities” such as doing yard work and attending a Reds game.  The video showed the injured worker walking and standing for prolonged periods of time, which was a direct conflict to his restrictions.

Providing this simple amount of evidence to the injured workers physician, got the physician to declare the injured worker MMI and released the injured worker back to work, cutting off his benefits from the BWC.

If you have suspicious claim and would like to conduct surveillance contact Brian Sweeney, President, Matrix Investigations & Consulting, Inc. at 513.351.1222 or by email at bsweeney@matrixinv.com