We like to think that we are too smart to fall for an insurance scam, but thousands of people fall victim to fraudulent drivers, agents, and mechanics each day. These are some of the most common insurance scams to watch out for so that you can avoid becoming a victim.
Staged Rear-Ending
A staged rear-ending accident occurs when the person committing fraud slows down or comes to a stop in busy traffic, at an intersection, or as they enter a highway. This can lead to you striking their vehicle from behind.
In most states, if you strike another vehicle from behind, you are found at fault as it appears you were following too closely. Not only could you be liable for the repairs to the other vehicle, but the other driver and their passengers may also claim neck or back pain, which could lead to a personal injury claim. Whenever possible, remain at a safe distance from the car in front of you so that you can stop quickly if necessary.
Helpful Bystander
In this scam, someone approaches you after an accident or a breakdown and pretends to be an insurance official. They convince you to use the services of a particular repair shop or healthcare clinic. They may also claim to have the name of a good lawyer who will help you with your case.
The scammer will then ask for your information to give to the lawyer, repair shop, or healthcare clinic, none of which exist. However, they will now have your information, which can be used to file false insurance claims.
In most cases, an insurance adjuster will not come to the accident scene unless you have called them and asked them to do so. Never give any information to someone who was not involved in your accident.
False Medical Claims
After an accident, the driver or passengers in the other vehicle may appear to be injured far worse than they actually were. In some cases, they may be working with a crooked physician who agrees to make exaggerated medical claims in order to increase the amount they will receive in a settlement. They may forge medical statements or charge for unnecessary treatments.
Scammers may also file lawsuits for additional pain and suffering. This is a difficult scam to identify. If you believe someone is filing false medical claims after an accident, you can report your suspicions to the insurance company or talk to an attorney to see what you can do to prove they are filing false claims.
Drive-Down Accident
The drive-down accident occurs when you are at an intersection and another car appears to have the right-of-way. The driver of the other car gives you a friendly wave, indicating that you can go ahead into the intersection or make your turn. As soon as you do, the other car rams into yours. The driver then claims they never gave you permission to go and, since they had the right-of-way, you will be found at fault.
A similar scam can occur in parking lots as two cars try to get to a parking space. Always be alert and vigilant when driving. If another driver waves you into an intersection, proceed slowly so you can stop quickly should they begin moving.
If any of these situations sounds like something that has happened to you, it is critical that you speak to an attorney immediately. You can schedule a
free consultation with a personal injury lawyer by following this link. An attorney will fight to protect your rights and help you avoid being the victim of these common scams.