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Insurance fraud, including staged accidents and collision scams, is a growing problem in the U.S. An auto accident is highly stressful; to learn that your accident was set up as an insurance scam only makes it worse. Often perpetuated by gangs or organized crime syndicates, staged collisions are elaborate schemes designed to place you at fault, generating large personal injury insurance claims. The most effective way to avoid becoming the victim of a staged accident is to understand how these scams work and learn what to look out for when you’re on the road. How to Recognize a Collision Scam The two most common accident schemes are known as the “swoop and swat” (sometimes called “swoop and squat”) and the “drive down” or “wave on.” The swoop and swat involves two vehicles. One pulls in front of your car and slows down, decreasing the gap between your vehicle and theirs. The other vehicle suddenly cuts in front of them, they slam on the brakes and you collide with the car in front of you. In the wave-on scam, the perpetrator waves you clear to back out of a parking space or to proceed through a stop sign then intentionally drive into your path. Although there are other types of staged collision scams, these are the two most common. Staged wrecks typically occur at low speed, resulting in little or no damage to the scammer’s vehicle. Look for a full car with each passenger claiming to have soft tissue damage and for potential inconsistencies in their stories. Preventing Staged Accidents It may be hard to prove a deliberate accident as scammers typically target an individual alone in a nice, late model car, leaving them without a corroborating witness. Be vigilant at all times behind the wheel, keeping an eye out for anyone driving suspiciously. Maintain a safe distance between your car and others and slow down if you see any cars slowing ahead of you. Don’t wait for the car in front of you to slow down before applying your own brakes. Be especially wary if someone waves you on. Watch for situations where vehicles are able to simultaneously turn from two lanes, as this is another favorite among fraudsters. If You Believe You’re the Victim of a Collision Scam Experts recommend that you always contact local authorities if you’ve been involved in an accident, but especially if you suspect fraud. Take as many photos as possible and make careful notes of any statements made by the other driver or passengers. Identify how many passengers there were and get names and contact information, if possible. Often in these scams, people who weren’t even in the car will file injury claims. Look around for any potential witnesses that can corroborate the true facts of the accident. Refuse medical treatment or legal advice at a location recommended by a strangely convenient bystander. Report any suspicious activity to your state’s insurance fraud bureau and to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Finally, if a tow truck driver conveniently appears on-scene, decline the service. Instead, contact your own insurance company and find a reputable local body shop. Most offer free towing and estimates and will work with you and your insurance company to ensure your vehicle’s safe repair. Beware of staged accidents and collision scams as they can cost you dearly, potentially causing serious injury and damage to your vehicle.
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