How to Report Insurance Fraud - and Why

Todays press release from the SC Insurance News Service reports on a guilty plea by a Lexington man charged with insurance fraud.  His claim was "only" a little over $2000.  Why report on this?  Because it is the accumulation of "small" claims like his that cost insurers, and therefore us, their customers, millions of dollars every year.  According to the SC Attorney General's office, in 2009 nearly $7 million in fraudulent claims were reported just here in South Carolina.  False or exaggerated medical, automobile collision and property/casualty claims raise insurance rates for everyone.  What can you do?   Report suspected insurance fraud!   Not only is it the right thing to do, it is required by law.  Did you know that in SC, it is illegal NOT to report insurance fraud?  According to the SC Attorney General, you "must report insurance fraud if you have reason to believe someone has committed this crime."  Their Insurance Fraud Brochure provides additional information on fraud, including their 24-hour fraud hotline.  Call 1-888-95-fraud or get an Insurance Fraud Complaint Form online to make a report - you can remain anonymous if you choose. Every claim, like every vote, really counts. 

 Byrd, Stillinger & Associates Private Investigators

www.investigatesc.com