What is Slip & Fall Fraud?
Slip and fall accidents are common occurrences that can result in genuine injuries for the people involved. These injuries can be quite serious at times and require significant medical treatment. Unfortunately, slip and fall cases have also become the target for fraudulent claims. Slip and fall fraud cases involve individuals who intentionally stage or exaggerate a slip and fall incident to try to seek financial gain through false injury claims. There are a number of common schemes that fraudsters will attempt which can negatively impact businesses or property owners, but there are things that people can do to try to prevent a fraudulent slip and fall case from being brought against them.
The Rise of Slip and Fall Scams
Because legitimate slip and fall cases are common and because slip and fall settlement amounts can be quite significant in some circumstances, these cases have garnered attention by people looking to exploit the legal system. People looking to make some fairly quick and easy money may intentionally create hazardous situations, such as spilling liquids or placing obstacles, to orchestrate accidents and make false claims. It’s important as a business owner to be aware of this type of behavior and to do all that you can to mitigate your vulnerability for slip and fall claims altogether.
Common Slip and Fall Fraud Schemes
Fraudulent slip and fall accidents can be created in a number of different ways.
Staged Accidents – People looking to submit a false slip and fall injury claim may stage their slip and fall accident by purposefully creating slippery surfaces or other dangerous conditions. These incidents are meticulously planned to give the appearance of a genuine accident.
Exaggerated Injuries – In some cases, individuals may have been involved in a legitimate slip and fall accident but then exaggerate the extent of their injuries, claiming severe pain and disability that goes beyond the actual impact of the accident in an effort to increase the settlement amount they receive.
False Witnesses – Fraudsters may even involve accomplices who act as false witnesses to support their claims, providing fabricated details about the incident. In some cases, they will even employ the services of shady medical professionals to corroborate their medical diagnosis.
How Do False Slip & Fall Cases Impact Businesses?
Slip and fall fraud can significantly impact not only the businesses for which the person has submitted the claim against, but also for the insurance industry as they are responsible for paying out such claims. As businesses face more fraudulent claims, their insurance company may raise premiums to try to compensate for the additional financial risk the business has incurred. Businesses also face the tough decision of paying legal fees to try to defend against fraudulent claims which can end up being substantial, or simply giving in and paying out for the settlement. If too many claims are submitted against a business, it can also hurt their reputation as it paints the picture that they are negligent, potentially leading to a loss of customers and revenue. Even if a fraudulent claim is disproven the accusation can be enough to cause damage.
How To Prevent Slip and Fall Fraud
It is best to be proactive when it comes to these sorts of cases and create processes that will minimize the risk of facing a slip and fall accident, whether it be false or legitimate.
- Surveillance Systems – By installing surveillance cameras in high-risk areas, property owners can deter fraudsters and provide valuable evidence in case of a claim.
- Regular Maintenance – Regular inspections and maintenance of your property, particularly areas prone to slip and fall incidents, can minimize the occurrence of genuine accidents and discourage fraudulent activities.
- Employee Training – Training staff to address spills immediately, keep walkways clear, and report potential hazards can contribute to a safer environment and help prevent intentional accidents.
- Record Keeping – When an incident does happen, it is important to thoroughly document everything, including photographs and witness statements, as these can serve as crucial evidence in case of a claim.
- Hire A Legal Professional – Seeking legal advice after a slip and fall incident can ensure that businesses are well-prepared to defend against fraudulent claims and protect their interests.
What Are The Legal Consequences for Fraudulent Slip & Fall Claims?
People who are caught engaging in slip and fall fraud can face serious legal consequences, including criminal charges that result in fines and even imprisonment for those found guilty. They may also be required to pay restitution and damages to the businesses affected by their fraudulent activities. And a false slip and fall claim ultimately hurts an individual’s credibility, which could negatively impact any legitimate future legal claims they may try to bring forward.
Speak With A Slip and Fall Lawyer Near You
It is important that slip and fall cases are taken seriously and investigated properly to make sure that real cases are not dismissed improperly. Fake slip and fall cases hurt the position of those involved in real cases, as it can cast doubt on the claims of someone who has been legitimately hurt in a slip and fall. If you have been involved in a slip and fall accident in Colorado Springs or the surrounding area or have any more questions, please contact the Law Offices of Rodemer | Kane online or call 719-635-7886 to book a no obligation free case consultation. We are happy to work with you and answer any questions you might have.