As a business owner, you have a lot on your plate. Between having to look out for your employees and overseeing all operations, it may not always be easy to recognize when something is not right. Consequently, you may not be able to recognize when an employee is taking advantage of the company. Are you aware of Massachusetts workers compensation fraud? This type of scam happens every day; and if you are not on guard, it could happen to you!
As your workers comp experts, we have put together a quick list of tips to recognize workers compensation fraud:

• If an employee claims they were injured but there were no witnesses, this is the first sign to investigate further.

• Workers compensation fraud occurs most during times such as: prior to a strike, immediately prior to job termination, retirement, layoff, ending of seasonal work, probationary periods or even after a workers return from a leave of absence.

• Be alert if a disgruntled, uncooperative or poor performing employee is claiming an injury.

• Ask yourself: Does the specific employee have a string of unexplained absences or frequent injuries?

• If an injured employee refuses a diagnostic procedure to confirm injury, consider it a red flag.

• Pay close attention to attorney/doctor combinations. Check on the date of the attorney representation letter. Also, if an attorney pushes for a quick settlement or lump-sum early during the claims process, you should be suspicious!

Recognizing these signs may end up saving you from a costly scam. If not, you may end up being taken advantage of and as a result, you may face an increase in your premium. We hope that you will take our advice, for the sake of your Massachusetts workers compensation premium! If you have any other questions or concerns about fraud or simply need a free quote, contact our agency today.