Insurers in Utrecht focus intensively on combating fraud in personal injury claims. This impacts all involved parties, including honest claimants. Know your rights and how fraud investigations are conducted in Utrecht.
What constitutes personal injury fraud?
Personal injury fraud can manifest in various ways.
Types of fraud
| Type | Example | Seriousness |
|---|---|---|
| Fully fabricated claims | Claiming a non-existent accident | Very serious |
| Exaggerating damage | Presenting complaints as more severe than they are | Moderate to severe |
| Incorrect information | Concealing prior medical issues | Moderate |
| Submitting multiple claims | Claiming the same damage with multiple insurers | Severe |
| Manipulated documents | Submitting false doctor's statements | Extremely serious |
Fraud investigation in Utrecht
If an insurer suspects fraud, an investigation can be initiated in Utrecht.
Methods of investigation
Analysis of documents
Checking submitted documents, comparing with previous claims, and looking for inconsistencies in statements.
Social media check
Reviewing public accounts on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook to search for contradictions with the claimed limitations.
External investigation
Observation by a private detective, only permitted with clear indications of fraud.
Medical examination
Additional medical examination to confirm or refute the reported complaints.
Your rights during a fraud investigation
Even in Utrecht, you have rights, even if a fraud investigation is ongoing.
Essential rights
- Right to information about the investigation upon completion
- Proportionality: the investigation must be proportionate to the suspicion
- Privacy protection: there are limits to what may be investigated
- Right to respond: you may respond to the findings
Consequences of fraud
Committing fraud in personal injury claims has serious consequences in Utrecht.
Possible sanctions
| Consequence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Claim rejected | The entire application is denied |
| Repayment | Paid amounts must be returned |
| Fraud registration | Entry in a fraud database |
| Insurance termination | All insurances may be terminated |
| Criminal proceedings | In cases of serious fraud, prosecution may follow |
| Investigation costs | Costs of the investigation are recovered from you |
Fraud registers in Utrecht
Insurers in Utrecht use central databases to register fraudsters.
Types of registers
- Internal Incident Register: registration within the insurance company
- External Referral Register (EVR): shared with other insurers
- FISH: Fraud Information System Holland
Impact of registration
- Taking out new insurance becomes difficult
- Registration can remain in place for up to 8 years
- Right to access and possibility to object
Unjust suspicion of fraud
In some cases, fraud is suspected unjustly in Utrecht.
What can you do?
- Contact a specialized lawyer in Utrecht immediately
- Cooperate with the investigation to avoid suspicion
- Provide evidence supporting your claim
- File a complaint for unjust accusations
- Demand compensation for unlawful suspicion
Preventing misunderstandings
Many alleged fraud cases in Utrecht arise from miscommunication or lack of clarity.
Advice
- Always be honest about your situation and limitations
- Mention positive developments or better days as well
- Do not conceal prior medical history
- Provide requested information quickly and completely
- Have a representative in Utrecht handle your communication
Frequently asked questions about fraud in personal injury claims in Utrecht
How do I find out if my insurer suspects me of fraud?
Insurers must inform you about a fraud investigation upon completion. You will receive a written explanation of the results. During the process, you may notice delays, receive additional questions, or a request for a medical examination.
May an insurer check my social media in Utrecht?
Yes, insurers may view public information on social media, but only with concrete indications of fraud and if the investigation is proportionate.
Legal support in Utrecht
For legal assistance, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht