Insurers are strongly committed to countering fraud in personal injury claims. This affects both honest and dishonest claimants. Discover your rights and how fraud investigations work in Leiden.
What does personal injury fraud entail?
Personal injury fraud can occur in multiple ways.
Types of fraud
| Type | Example | Seriousness |
|---|---|---|
| Fabricated claims | Claiming a fake accident | Very serious |
| Exaggeration of damage | Presenting complaints as more severe | Moderate to severe |
| Incorrect information | Concealing prior conditions | Moderate |
| Submitting multiple claims | Claiming the same damage twice | Serious |
| Manipulated evidence | Forged medical documents | Extremely serious |
How does a fraud investigation work?
If an insurer suspects fraud, an investigation may be initiated.
Types of investigation
Analysis of file
Review of submitted documents, comparison with previous claims, and checking consistency in statements.
Online investigation via social media
Reviewing public accounts on platforms such as Instagram and LinkedIn to find discrepancies with claimed limitations.
Investigation by detectives
Observation by an external agency, only permitted in cases of clear fraud indicators.
Medical examination
Additional medical examination to confirm the validity of complaints.
Your rights during an investigation
Even in cases of suspected fraud, you retain certain rights.
Essential rights
- Receive information about the investigation afterwards
- Proportionality: the investigation must be appropriate to the suspicion
- Privacy protection: limitations on investigation boundaries
- Right to respond: opportunity to reply to conclusions
What are the consequences of fraud?
Committing fraud can have serious consequences.
Potential consequences
| Consequence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Claim rejection | The entire claim is rejected |
| Repayment | Paid amounts must be repaid |
| Fraud registration | Entry in a fraud database |
| Policy termination | All insurances may be terminated |
| Criminal proceedings | Prosecution in cases of serious fraud |
| Investigation costs | Costs of the investigation are recovered |
Fraud registration systems
Insurers keep track of fraudsters in central databases.
Types of registers
- Internal Incident Register: registration within the insurance company
- EVR: External Referral Register (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 object to the registration
Unjust suspicion of fraud
Sometimes someone is unjustly accused of fraud.
What can you do?
- Contact an experienced lawyer immediately
- Cooperate with the investigation to avoid suspicion
- Provide evidence to prove your innocence
- File a complaint in case of unjust accusations
- Claim compensation for unlawful suspicion
Preventing misunderstandings
Many alleged fraud cases arise from miscommunication or lack of knowledge.
Practical tips
- Be honest about your complaints and limitations
- Mention positive developments or good days as well
- Do not conceal prior medical history
- Provide requested information quickly and completely
- Have a representative manage your communication
Help in Leiden
For legal support in Leiden, you can go to:
- District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location
- Juridisch Loket Leiden: Stationsweg 46, Leiden