Rise in Crash for cash Scams sees new crackdown from a united Insurance market

The industry has set up a new voluntary charter designed to identify loopholes in the insurance market, along with enhancing the collaboration between companies and bringing increased criminal outcomes to investigations.

Typically Crash for Cash incidents see criminals recklessly orchestrate accidents to put forward insurance claims, this could be as simple as braking suddenly for no reason, a pedestrian dramatically jumping on the bonnet of a slow-moving vehicle or even moped riders deliberately crashing their scooters into vehicles then threatening the drivers.

This can understandably be a traumatic and scary incident for the innocent people involved and can result in a significant financial impact should the fraudsters be successful, not only increasing their insurance premium but also requiring them to repair the damage to their own vehicle.

Upsettingly the scammers will often target more vulnerable road users, such as women driving alone or with their children, elderly drivers and even learners.

The Insurance Fraud Bureau is currently investigating over 6,000 suspected fraudulent motor insurance claims, which could be linked to crash for cash scams. In total, this is estimated to be worth over £70 million in potential fraud.

Many drivers have smartly resorted to installing dashboard mounted cameras to record their daily driving activities and potentially catch scammers in the act. This additional protection can provide valuable evidence that can be passed on to the police and insurance companies in the event of an accident or scam.

Detective chief inspector Tom Hill, of City of London Police’s IFED, said: “If you witness or are involved in a collision and suspect it is crash for cash fraud, gather as much information as possible. This could be the make and model of the moped, its number plate or the clothing that the driver is wearing. These details could be invaluable in disproving a fraudulent claim. Report the incident as soon as possible to the Insurance Fraud Bureau’s CheatLine.”

Those who have had their vehicles scuffed, scraped or damaged by scammers or fraudsters are encouraged to get in touch with Revive! UK to investigate the viability of a SMART repair to return their vehicle to the state it was in before it was impacted.

Revive! offers a mobile service for minor bodywork and alloy wheel damage. The company boasts the combination of expert knowledge and a pioneering spirit along with strong values that can bring a superior car repair service to customers nationwide.

If you are interested in our repair services, please get in touch with our team now!

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