Smile, You’re on Camera! The Impact of Video Surveillance on Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

It seems like cameras are everywhere these days and that includes in many workplace environments. According to the results of one study, upwards of a billion surveillance cameras are expected to be watching around the world in 2021. In some cases, video footage can help an injured worker successfully obtain benefits that he or she may be entitled to under Florida’s workers’ compensation statute. However, in other situations, video surveillance can actually be used by an employer to disprove a worker’s assertions and prevent him or her from obtaining the compensation that might otherwise have been afforded. As video surveillance footage can literally make or break your claim, every worker should understand the impact it can have on a claim for benefits in the event of a workplace injury.

Types of Video Surveillance

As stated above, there may be cameras in your workplace. However, this is far from the only place they may be located and the footage that can become a factor in the outcome of your claim may actually be recorded weeks or even months after the incident that led to you being injured. It is important to understand the types of surveillance that might be used which include:

• Workplace security cameras. Many employers have video surveillance systems for security purposes. These can also record the circumstances of a workplace injury.
• Cell phone cameras. Most people carry smartphones these days. In addition to any footage recorded by the injured worker, others present such as coworkers or customers may also document the incident on their phones.
• Videos posted on social media. Even what you think is a post about an innocent activity can be fatal to your claim depending upon your reported injuries. For this reason, it is best to limit or even avoid social media altogether until your claim is resolved.
• Footage recorded by private investigators. In some cases, adverse parties will hire a private investigator to follow you in an attempt to prove that you are exaggerating your injuries or don’t really have one. Be especially mindful of the potential for surveillance video when doing outdoor activities that are easily visible.

How Can Injured Workers Avoid a Claim Being Affected By Surveillance Video?

Because injured workers are finding themselves being recorded more often than ever before, it is more important than ever to fully understand that the insurance company’s primary goal – which is shared by your employer who is concurrently paying premiums to that company – is to pay you as little as possible and instead ensure that you return to work quickly. One of the ways that the insurance company will attempt to do this is with surveillance video that demonstrates that an injured worker is better off than he or she claimed. Therefore, it is imperative that you:

• Are always as truthful as possible about the nature and extent of your injuries;
• Communicate with your workers’ compensation doctor and keep him or her updated on the status of your injuries;
  And
• Don’t stop your medical treatment until your doctor tells you to and comply with your treatment plan.

Reach Out For Help Today.

As the experienced Miami workers’ compensation attorneys at Payer & Associates, we can help you understand your legal options and ensure that you take the right steps to help you maximize your entitlement to workers’ compensation benefits. Begin by contacting us today to schedule a free consultation.

Resource:

cnbc.com/2019/12/06/one-billion-surveillance-cameras-will-be-watching-globally-in-2021.html

https://www.payerandassociates.com/factory-workers-and-workers-compensation/