Do Insurance Companies Use Private Investigators?

If you’ve been injured in an accident and are pursuing a personal injury claim, you may be wondering if insurance companies are allowed to use private investigators to gather information about you. The short answer is yes, they can if they feel it is appropriate and sometimes they do.
To learn more about when private investigators are used in personal injury disputes and how you can connect with discovery tools in order to secure financial compensation after an injurious event in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, connect with a Bucks County personal injury attorney.
Understand When Personal Injury Disputes Include Private Investigators
While insurance company marketing materials often share their commitment to their customers, it is also important to remember that insurance companies are businesses that have to prioritize making money in order to meet the objectives of the organization. Because of this, when you file a personal injury claim, the insurance company will work to provide you with the coverage that they are contractually required to provide, but while also doing everything they can to minimize the amount they have to pay out.
One path insurance companies may employ in order to save the business money is to hire private investigators to gather information. Private investigators can be used at any stage of a personal injury claim, from the initial investigation to the trial.
Here are some examples of when private investigators may be used:
- After you file a claim, the insurance company may hire a private investigator to investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury. The investigator may take photographs or video of the accident scene, interview witnesses, and gather any other evidence that could be used to dispute your claim.
- If the insurance company suspects that you are exaggerating your injuries or that you are not as injured as you claim, they may hire a private investigator to conduct surveillance on you. The investigator may follow you, take photographs or video of you, and gather other evidence that could be used to dispute your claim.
- If your case goes to court, the insurance company may hire a private investigator to investigate you or any witnesses who will be testifying against them. This can include background checks, interviews, and other forms of investigation.
Work with an Experienced Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s important to hire a Bucks County personal injury attorney to protect you from a low offer. Insurance companies are likely doing everything they can to minimize the amount they have to pay, which could include hiring private investigators to gather data. To shield yourself from loss, seek medical treatment, keep detailed records, be honest, and work with an experienced injury lawyer to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Do you suspect a private investigator is collecting information about you as you move to secure financial damages following an accident injury? Insurance companies have their own attorneys, connect with your own legal counsel. Talk to the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Call 215-968-6602 to learn more.