Member Article

How to make your employees aware of ‘Crash for Cash’ scammers on UK roads

Driving can often be stressful enough without the added worry of the sinister motives of other motorists. Navigating rush hour and dealing with the daily expenses of operating a vehicle are just two examples. So the last thing conscientious drivers need to be dealing with is the underlying threat of so-called ‘Crash for Cash’ bandits operating across the country. Equally, as a business, you don’t want your staff to fall foul of such an incident. By guiding and training them through the possible perils, you could be saving them, and you, time, money, and stress induced after-effects.

What is ’Crash for Cash’?

A worryingly increasing number of motorists are staging accidents on the roads in order to claim on insurance. There is a sinister and dangerous element to this of course, and it is all motivated by financial gain. There are three common types of ‘crash for cash’ scams.

1. Staged crashes. This is when two or more drivers stage a crash in order to claim on multiple policies.
2. Contrived accidents. This is when drivers claim on accidents which never even took place!
3. Induced accidents. An induced accident is where a driver deliberately crashes into an unwitting motorist in order to claim on the insurance. This is the most reckless and dangerous of the three.

How can I help my staff avoid these scammers?

Gentle education and advice can enlighten your drivers to the dangers they could face. The scammers are out there, and there are a few steps you can take to minimise the risk of bumping into one of these people. You should encourage your staff to follow some simple steps:

-Firstly, basic sensible driving will stand you in good stead. Keep a safe distance away from vehicles in front of you and be vigilant at all times. You are more likely to be targeted by fraudsters if your driving is erratic and crossing the boundaries of good driving. Be aware of hazards, anybody driving strangely around you, and make sure you follow the laws accordingly.

-Secondly, if you are unlucky enough to be caught up in an accident, DO NOT admit liability for any bumps. The matter will need to be investigated, and if you are lured into admitting fault your hands are tied and the fraudster could get what he came for. Make notes and document the incident as it happened. It is possible that the guilty party will dream up a few extra passengers or a fantasy situation which stacks the odds in their favour. Make sure you are 100% clear on the facts at the time of the accident.

-Finally, make sure yourself and your staff are au fait with your insurance policies. Insurance firms such as C-Amackie, or whoever your provider is, will be able to put your mind at rest if you are not sure of the terms of your policy. You are covered if you drive carefully and ensure you are not breaking any rules.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by C&A Mackie .