If this looks like your surveillance investigations team, we have some bad news….

We like to think that this picture is a dated, stereotypical stock photo of what a graphic artist thinks a typical insurance surveillance investigation looks like. Unfortunately, in many cases it is an accurate depiction of several SIU Investigators. A considerable number of large regional investigative services do not mandate the type of camera used by their investigators or do not require tinted windows for vehicles used in surveillance investigations.

Using hand held cameras or non-tinted windows is the quickest way a bystander, neighbor or claimant can identify an investigator performing surveillance. If an someone observes an individual sitting in a car for an extended amount of time while periodically putting a camera to their face is broadcasting to the public: SURVEILLANCE. If an investigator is identified it is the start of losing control of the investigation and any advantage the client or defendant might have had. News of an investigator identified in a neighborhood travels quickly, it can also be accelerated by social media. Information of possible surveillance could reach a friend, relative or the claimant, any hope of getting valuable evidence or future evidence most likely lost. Furthermore, if your investigator is using a hand-held camera the better the odds of them producing shaky video footage. We still have not met the investigator with such a steady hand that can the can produce consistent non-shaky video evidence. The more movement in the video the less chance to clearly identify contradictory evidence to their testimony. Surprisingly, several investigative services display pictures of investigators using hand-held cameras in cars without tinted windows as an example of their services, on their website and throughout their marketing material.

Asking your investigators, the following questions before surveillance can improve your success rate and return on investment.
 What type of camera is being used and what is the zoom capability?
 If in a vehicle are the windows tinted?
 How many vehicles will be used in the case?
 Is unmanned surveillance an option?

A significant amount of money is at risk for every insurance surveillance investigation attempted. Insurance defense professionals should take the time to ensure that the odds of success are not stacked against them before an investigator even gets on site.