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Red Flags of Fraud

Learn to spot signs of workers' compensation fraud and abuse.

Our goal is to find the truth—either validating an injured workers' claim or developing evidence to submit to the state fraud division and prosecutors for criminal charges.

While most workers' compensation claims are legitimate, some are inflated or fraudulent.  By spotting signs of possible fraud, you can help Zenith identify claims that merit closer scrutiny.


A red flag does not prove fraud, and even the presence of several indicators does not mean fraud has occurred. But by knowing what to look for, you can begin to see troubling patterns and notify Zenith investigators, so that they may conduct a thorough investigation.


Red Flags Of Possible Workers' Compensation Fraud or Abuse:

 

If the injured employee:

Has injuries that are inconsistent with facts of the accident.
Provides multiple versions of how the accident occurred.
Refuses medical tests or examinations to confirm an injury.
Stays out of work longer than the doctor prescribed.
Protests excessively about a modified position or returning to work and never seems to improve.
Has a suspicious prior history of reporting subjective injuries.
Has a questionable identity, residence or contact information.
Was experiencing financial difficulties prior to submission of a claim and inquires about a quick claim settlement.
Is retiring, on probation, involved in a labor dispute, disgruntled, a poor job performer or subject to disciplinary action.
Is a new employee, nomadic, a seasonal worker or on short-term employment.
Is never at home, does not answer telephone or avoids the use of U.S. Mail.
Is unusually familiar with the workers' compensation system or terminology.
  
If the accident or illness:

Lacks witnesses.
Occurs late on a Friday afternoon (especially if not reported until Monday) or early on a Monday morning.
Is not associated with employee's job duties.
Occurred in an area not frequented by employee.
Is not reported to the employer in a timely way.
Leads to rumors at work that the accident was staged or illegitimate.
  





 

 






 
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