When you suffer an injury while on the job, taking the necessary steps to protect yourself and your ability to pursue compensation is vital. It’s important to understand that insurance adjusters and claims departments can surveil the plaintiffs in cases to ensure they are not faking the severity of their injury. Railroads will collect evidence that disproves the claims of the injured party. If you’ve suffered a railroad injury you sustained at work, it’s in your best interest to contact a FELA lawyer to help you through the FELA process and provide advice on how to avoid harming your claim. Keep reading to learn what you should avoid after suffering an injury.
Will I Be Surveilled Following an Injury?
There are levels of surveillance claims departments and insurance adjusters will go to when collecting information about an injured party. Though you may be wary of every person in a baseball hat and sunglasses, it is rare they will hire a private investigator. However, this is not unheard of. In reality, it’s more common that your social media will be used against you.
It’s important to understand that the railroad company may be watching you, even if you have not yet spoken to an attorney. As such, taking the necessary precautions is crucial.
What Do I Need to Avoid After a Railroad Injury?
Understanding what you can do to help your FELA claim is vital to protecting yourself.
The most important thing you can do is to watch what you post on your social media profiles. Unfortunately, anything you post or like can be used against you. For example, if you are out of work with a broken leg, posting a photo enjoying a barbeque with your friends can be used to show that your pain must not be as bad as you claim. In fact, it’s best to avoid social media altogether until the claim is finalized.
It is also possible that a private investigator has been employed by the railroad. As such, you should follow your doctor’s orders strictly. If your doctor says not to lift more than five pounds, do not pick up any heavy bags like dog food or groceries. Unfortunately, this one action can be used to dispel the claims you are making about the state of your injuries if there is a private investigator on your case.
How Can a FELA Attorney Help Me?
Unfortunately, a FELA claim can be challenging to navigate. As such, enlisting the assistance of an attorney with the necessary experience and knowledge can help you through this process.
At Doran & Murphy, we understand that putting your life on hold to make it through the claims process can be frustrating. However, it is essential to protect yourself and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can help you through this challenging time.
