When you file a personal injury claim, you may assume the insurance company will fairly evaluate your case based on medical records, police reports, and witness statements. However, what many claimants don’t realize is that insurance companies often use surveillance tactics to try and discredit their claims, looking for any evidence that suggests you are not as injured as you claim to be. Understanding how insurers conduct surveillance can help you protect your rights and avoid common pitfalls that could hurt your case. Led by Preston Rezaee, Esq., The Firm is a premier personal injury law practice in Las Vegas, dedicated to delivering justice for accident victims. With a reputation for relentless advocacy and client-focused representation, The Firm helps clients navigate the complexities of personal injury claims, ensuring they are prepared for any tactics insurance companies may use against them.
Why Do Insurance Companies Use Surveillance?
Insurance providers are businesses focused on minimizing payouts. If they can find evidence to reduce or deny your claim, they will. Surveillance is commonly used to:
- Catch Claimants in Contradictions – If you claim to have severe mobility issues but are recorded engaging in physical activities, they may argue that you are exaggerating your injuries.
- Discredit Pain and Suffering Claims – Even a simple activity like carrying groceries or playing with children can be used against you.
- Minimize Settlement Amounts – By suggesting that you are healthier than you claim, insurers justify offering lower compensation.
Common Surveillance Methods Used by Insurance Companies
Insurance companies use several tactics to observe and document claimants’ daily activities, including:
1. Video and Photo Surveillance
Insurance adjusters may hire private investigators to follow you and capture photos or videos of your activities. This often includes:
- Watching your home and tracking when you leave or return.
- Recording you at work, shopping, or social events.
- Checking for inconsistencies between your reported injuries and your observed actions.
2. Social Media Monitoring
Your social media activity can provide insurance companies with valuable information, including:
- Posts or pictures showing you engaging in activities that contradict your claims.
- Location tags that reveal where you’ve been and what you’ve been doing.
- Comments from friends or family suggesting you’re feeling better than reported.
3. Online Activity Tracking
Insurance companies may also monitor your online footprint to gather evidence. This includes:
- Reviewing professional networking sites like LinkedIn to see if you’ve returned to work.
- Checking fitness apps or public race results if you participate in physical activities.
4. Direct Interaction Surveillance
Insurers might go beyond distant observation and engage in:
- Calling you and recording conversations in which they try to get you to downplay your injuries.
- Sending investigators posing as survey takers or other professionals to gather information.
How to Protect Yourself from Insurance Surveillance
Since surveillance can be used against you, it’s essential to take precautions. Here’s how:
- Be Mindful of Public Activities
- Avoid strenuous physical activities in public, especially if your claim involves mobility issues.
- If necessary, ask friends and family to assist with daily tasks.
- Limit Social Media Activity
- Avoid posting updates, photos, or check-ins that could misrepresent your condition.
- Ask friends and family not to tag you in posts.
- Adjust privacy settings to restrict who can view your content.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations
- If your doctor prescribes rest, adhere to it strictly.
- Keep records of medical visits and follow-up care to counteract any claims of exaggeration.
- Be Cautious with Insurance Representatives
- Do not discuss your injuries or activities with insurance adjusters without legal counsel.
- Be mindful that even casual conversations can be recorded and used against you.
What to Do If You Suspect Surveillance
If you believe an insurance company is monitoring you, take the following steps:
- Document Suspicious Activity – If you notice someone following you or see unusual vehicles near your home, make a note of dates, times, and descriptions.
- Inform Your Attorney – Your lawyer can take steps to ensure you are protected from unfair surveillance practices.
- Remain Consistent with Your Claims – Never exaggerate or downplay your injuries; always be truthful about your limitations.
Insurance companies use surveillance to reduce or deny personal injury claims, but being aware of their tactics can help you protect yourself. By staying cautious in public, limiting social media activity, and following medical advice, you can safeguard your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
When it comes to choosing an attorney, experience matters. You need aggressive, competent, and personalized legal representation and that is what you’ll get with Preston Rezaee, Esq. and The Firm. Retaining the right firm to assist you with your case will affect the outcome and the amount of money you will receive. At The Firm, we strive to distinguish ourselves from commercialized law firms handing hundreds of cases per month. For cases relating to personal injury, we have developed personal relationships with highly qualified medical professionals in Clark County to ensure that our clients not only receive the best legal representation, but also the best medical treatment available. If you’ve been injured in Southern Nevada, give us a call at 702-222-FIRM (3476).
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. The content is based on the author’s understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing and is not tailored to the specific circumstances of any individual or entity.
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