Car insurance fraud is on the rise, with staged accidents becoming a dangerous and costly issue for unsuspecting drivers. The seriousness of this issue led to the passage of a 2019 law in New York making it a felony to stage car crashes for insurance payouts, with other states adopting similar measures. In recent years, dash cams have proven to be invaluable tools for catching these fraudulent activities in action, saving drivers from lengthy and expensive claims, and exposing the criminals behind them.
A recent article by The New York Times highlighted a striking example of this problem. A woman on Long Island became a victim of insurance fraud when a Honda Civic reversed into her Acura. To make matters worse, four individuals exited the Honda holding their heads and claiming injuries. Fortunately, her dash cam captured the entire incident. The footage went viral on TikTok, amassing over 74 million views, and brought national attention to this rising problem.
Common types of staged accidents
Fraudsters employ a variety of schemes to stage accidents, making it appear as though you are at fault. Some of the most common scenarios include:
- Swoop and Squat
- In this scenario, two drivers conspire to stage an accident. One car “swoops” in front of you, slams on the brakes, and forces you to collide with them, while their accomplice “squats” nearby to witness the staged accident and back up their story.
- Left or Right Turn Drive Down
- Here, a group of drivers waves you to make a turn but then blocks your way and intentionally crashes into the side of your vehicle.
- Curb Drive Down
- A driver waits for you to pull away from a curb and merge into traffic, only to deliberately crash into your car, making it appear as though you failed to yield.
How to protect yourself
Dash cams are among the best tools available to protect yourself against car insurance fraud. These devices provide real-time footage that can serve as crucial evidence in disputes, making it difficult for fraudsters to successfully execute their schemes. Here are some additional tips to protect yourself:
- Follow Safety Laws: Always drive defensively, leaving as much space around your vehicle as possible to avoid collisions.
- Pull Over Safely: After an accident, move to the shoulder lane or a safe area if possible.
- Avoid Tailgating: Keeping a safe distance can reduce the likelihood of being caught in a staged accident.
- Call the Police: Notify law enforcement immediately after an incident to document the situation officially.
If you don’t have a dash cam, consider using your smartphone to record the scene. Capture footage of any damage to your car, the other vehicles, and their occupants to safeguard yourself against false claims.
The power of dash cams
Dash cams are more than just recording devices; they are silent witnesses that can save you time, money, and stress in the face of fraudulent claims. As insurance fraud continues to rise, investing in a reliable dash cam can provide peace of mind and protect you from becoming another victim of this alarming trend. By equipping yourself with the right tools and knowledge, you can navigate the roads more safely and confidently.
Get help on Long Island
If you find yourself involved in a car crash, whether it’s due to negligence or a suspected case of insurance fraud, it’s crucial to protect your rights and navigate the complex legal process with confidence. With over 30 years of experience on Long Island, Mark T. Freeley is a personal injury lawyer you can trust. Contact Mark by phone/text at 631-495-9435 or by email at northshoreinjurylawyer@gmail.com, and he will take the time to listen and speak with you.