Crash for Cash scams escalating, warn Fraud Bureau

‘Crash for Cash’ scams can range from paper-based fabrications, or vehicles being damaged behind closed doors, through to the most dangerous where collisions are being caused by fraudsters with innocent road users.

IFB investigations have found single gangs can be behind thousands of orchestrated collisions in some areas, with the combined value of their fraudulent claims running into the millions.

In the top hotspot area of Birmingham, the IFB recently worked with City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) to convict a serial ‘Crash for Cash’ fraudster who had spent over two years luring innocent people into car crashes.

Ben Fletcher, Director at the IFB, said, “ ‘Crash for Cash’ fraudsters bring devastation to countless victims and increase motor insurance costs for us all.

“The IFB’s hotspots analysis is a stark reminder that although great strides have been taken in tackling the problem, these car crash scams are all too common.”

“As traffic levels return to normal following the national lockdown, ‘Crash for Cash’ fraudsters may look to make up for lost time.

“It is hoped that by shining a spotlight on the issue we will encourage road users to be alert and report any suspicious activity to the IFB’s Cheatline on 0800 422 0421.”

It is hoped that the announcement of the UK’s top ‘Crash for Cash’ hotspots will encourage communities to be vigilant as more drivers start to take to the roads.

Crash for cash concerns

Keep a good distance

Always keep a good distance from the vehicle in front. According to the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) the time required to safely stop is:

• 2 seconds in dry conditions.
• 4 seconds in wet conditions.
• 20 seconds in icy or snowy conditions.

Stay alert

• Drive safe and stick to the highway code.
• Look ahead to spot any potential hazards including unusual driving behaviour.
• Focus on vehicles and not just their lights, as fraudsters often disable brake lights.
• Be cautious when pulling out of a side road, especially if encouraged by another driver.
• If other drivers or their passengers are behaving suspiciously, or the condition of their vehicle is poor (such as rear dents), stay calm and keep back.

Know the signs of a ‘Crash for Cash’

• The driver or their passengers appear to be unphased after the collision.
• The driver or their passengers appear to exaggerate injuries.
• Pre-written insurance information is handed over.