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Video uncovers false post-9/11 injury claims in New York

On Behalf of | May 2, 2014 | Workers' Compensation

Every New York resident is likely to remember where they were when they heard about the tragedies of September 11, 2001. In the wake of the terrorist attacks, thousands of emergency services personnel bravely ran into burning buildings to conduct rescue operations. Many of those individuals lost their lives and still more suffered injuries and contracted illnesses as a result of their actions.

Of course, those individuals and their loved ones should be commended for their service and bravery. Unfortunately, however, it seems as though some have exploited the situation by making false work injury claims and personally profiting.

According to reports, a New York man posted videos online about how he made thousands of dollars by submitting fraudulent work-related disability claims for psychological conditions developed as a result of his position as police officer during the 9/11 attacks. Of course, his online videos have created a stir.

The unfortunate reality is that this man isn’t alone in his efforts to make false insurance claims for workplace injuries. An ABC News report points to the case of a woman who made a workers’ compensation claim for severely debilitating injuries. However, she later appeared on an episode of “The Price is Right” and performed many of the physical activities she claimed that she couldn’t do.

One of the side effects of wrongful claims for workers’ compensation is an overall hike in premiums. Insurers lose money when they pay out on false claims. In order to meet these expenses, costs are passed along to others covered under the insurance policy.

In order for insurers to effectively resolve these types of injury claims, it might be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation to get all of the facts. Of course, this is a complex task that may require additional resources and assistance.

Source: ABC News, “Caught in the act: Workers collect thousands in false injury claims,” April 19, 2014

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