Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud is an intentional act aimed at obtaining illegitimate benefits from insurance processes. It occurs when a claimant tries to acquire perks they are not entitled to or when an insurer knowingly denies rightful benefits. Common schemes include workers compensation fraud, asset diversion, fee churning, and premium diversion. If you have been charged with any of these offenses, a Pittsburgh insurance fraud lawyer can provide valuable assistance.

Broad Categorization

Insurance fraud can broadly be categorized into two types: hard fraud and soft fraud.

• Hard Fraud: This type of fraud involves a deliberate attempt to fabricate accidents, arson, theft, injury, or other losses in order to unlawfully collect money from an insurance company.

• Soft Fraud: Honest individuals often resort to small deceptions when dealing with insurance companies. While some may view these actions as harmless exaggerations, soft fraud is indeed a crime that ultimately raises insurance costs for everyone.

It is vital to consider the consequences of collecting insurance payments you are not entitled to, as insurance companies will actively pursue and prosecute such cases, often resulting in federal indictments. In such circumstances, timely consultation with a Pittsburgh DUI attorney in Pittsburgh is essential to protect your rights and navigate the legal process effectively.

What is Federal Insurance Fraud?

Federal Insurance Fraud refers to the intentional and misleading actions taken to deceive insurance companies for personal gain. While there is no specific statute addressing insurance fraud alone, prosecutors in Pittsburgh can charge individuals under the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Act, as well as statutes related to wire and mail fraud.

Engaging in insurance fraud includes:

• Providing an insurer with intentionally false or misleading statements regarding a specific claim, with the aim of defrauding the company.
• Presenting misleading or falsified documents to an insurance company to manipulate motor vehicle insurance actions or rates.
• Conspiring or assisting others in defrauding insurance companies by providing false or misleading information.
• Submitting false insurance claims using another person’s insurance identification card.
• Hiring individuals to commit fraud against an insurer.

For instance, claiming to have lost valuable items during a house incident, such as a fallen tree, when no such loss occurred can lead to charges and convictions of insurance fraud.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigates various types of insurance fraud, including:

• Asset diversion, which involves stealing assets during acquisitions or mergers of insurance companies.
• Fee churning, where intermediaries collect excessive commissions through reinsurance agreements.
• Premium diversion, which refers to embezzling insurance premiums.
• Fraud related to disaster relief, such as filing inflated or false insurance claims following a hurricane.

In addition to facing federal charges for insurance fraud, individuals may also be subject to civil action by the insurance company.

Insurance fraud charges are typically classified as third-degree felonies and carry substantial fines and long periods of incarceration.

Ways in Which a Pittsburgh Insurance Fraud Attorney Can Help

Facing an insurance fraud charge can be daunting, with determined federal prosecutors and inflexible laws working against you. However, at Logue Law Group, we have the best Pittsburgh criminal lawyers ready to advocate for you. Our goal is to ensure that you understand all your options and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

With our experienced Pittsburgh DUI attorney by your side, you can rely on us to provide comprehensive representation for insurance fraud and scams. We will fight to uphold your rights under the various consumer protection laws and vigorously pursue recovery of any losses you may have suffered.

We understand the seriousness of insurance fraud, given the substantial financial implications involved. Whether you or a loved one is facing such charges, our dedicated Pittsburgh criminal lawyer is here to guide you through the legal process. From explaining your defenses to exercising your rights, we will be there for you every step of the way.

Don’t hesitate to take advantage of our complimentary initial consultation. Discover how our experienced insurance fraud lawyer in Pittsburgh can make a difference in your case. Contact us online or call 844.PITT.DUI today.