Can Workers’ Comp Spy on Me in Tampa?

Yes, the workers’ compensation program may hire private investigators to conduct surveillance on you if you file a claim. It’s that simple. This might seem like a complete violation of your privacy – and in many ways, it is. However, there is nothing inherently illegal about this behavior, and it presents a serious risk for many people who need compensation after workplace accidents in Tampa. If you want to learn more about workers’ compensation surveillance, consider speaking with a Tampa workers’ compensation lawyer.

What Might Happen if Workers’ Comp Conducts Surveillance? 

The consequences of surveillance after a workers’ compensation claim can be tremendous. In 2024, a man from Clearwater faced multiple criminal charges after allegedly committing workers’ compensation fraud. The man was serving as a police officer when he reportedly suffered some kind of arm injury while removing someone from the back of a cruiser. Despite working throughout the rest of that workday, he eventually received two surgeries on his arm and filed a workers’ compensation claim. He claimed that his career as a police officer was no longer possible – mainly because he could only use one arm effectively.

However, the city’s “Risk Management Department” then started spying on the man and discovered that he easily used both hands to drive his personal vehicle. Investigators also saw the man working out and lifting weights with both arms at his local gym. This is a classic example of how surveillance can completely ruin not only a workers’ comp claim, but also your career and reputation. Workers’ comp fraud is a criminal offense that can lead to serious penalties.

Investigators May Also Check Your Social Media 

After filing a major workers’ comp claim, you should probably avoid going to the gym and engaging in certain public activities. But even if you stay behind closed doors, you might still cause issues for yourself if you post images and videos on social media. Investigators can easily access your account, and this is one of the easiest ways for them to conduct surveillance on you. For example, you might post a video of yourself playing video games or foosball with your friends at home. If your injury affected one of your hands or arms, these posts could cause serious issues.

Exercise May Be Part of Your Normal Recovery Plan 

With that said, going to the gym is not inherently problematic after a workplace injury. Your doctor might actually recommend that you exercise to strengthen muscles and speed up your recovery. You might also work with a personal trainer to recover effectively after an injury. If you’re facing a denied claim because you simply followed your doctor’s instructions, you should push back with help from an experienced workers’ comp lawyer.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help With Surveillance? 

If you feel like you’re being watched, you might be right. These fears are perfectly valid, and you should be aware that surveillance is a common practice among insurers and the workers’ compensation program in Florida. Once you become aware of the potential issues related to a major claim, you can avoid careless mistakes. This is why a simple consultation with an experienced Tampa workers’ compensation lawyer can be so helpful. Avoid needless errors by contacting The Franco Law Firm today.

Sources 

abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/clearwater-police-officer-arrested-after-allegedly-faking-a-disability-for-workers-comp

floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/occupational-health-surveillance/index.html