By MIKE WILLIAMS

This is one of those topics that we come back to from time to time … for several reasons.

1. It is an on-going problem.

2. It is something that we can do something about.

3. We need to be reminded about some things from time to time so that we do not become complacent, or worse, slip into the trap of becoming part of the problem.

Question: What are we talking about by “insurance crimes” or fraud?

Answer: Anytime claims are filed that are fake, exaggerated for profit, or the result of criminal activity.

How big is the problem? The National Insurance Crime Bureau estimates property casualty crimes and fraud amount to $20 billion a year. This includes intentional crime against an insurer that might range from arson for profit to automobile theft.

Vehicle theft alone (real and staged for profit) totals to about $8 billion annually.

Meanwhile, workers’ compensation fraud, staged automobile accidents, faked or exaggerated injuries, and healthcare fraud (ripping off health insurance and government programs, such as Medicare) amounts to billions more annually.

All in all, the NICB estimates that insurance crimes amount to upwards of $100 billion a year. That is $100 billion in illegitimate insurance claims. And that amounts to somewhere between $200-$300 in additional insurance premiums that each of us pays each year as insurers include the costs for these claims in their rates.

There is something we can do about it. You have heard the old sentiment, “What can I do, I’m only one person.”

Stop and think about it. The way most things are accomplished are by one step at a time.

Presidents are elected by tabulating one vote at a time. Teams reach championships by each player contributing his or her individual effort.

We can fight back against insurance fraud by each one of us being aware, and being willing, to get involved.

If you know about an insurance crime, call the NICB at 1-800-TEL-NICB.

Report fraud. It is a way of keeping your money in your pocket. Resist the temptation that “everybody’s doing it.”

Everybody is not doing it. However, surveys show there is an increasing number who feel it is OK to pad insurance claims in order to get back past premiums.

Deal honestly with your insurer and report fraud. It is the right thing to do.

MIKE WILLIAMS is a State Farm insurance agent with an office in LaPlace.