How to Handle a Staged Car Crash
Not all collisions are caused accidentally. In some cases, the collisions are carefully staged by individuals seeking to make money from fraudulent claims. If you own a luxury vehicle, new car, or work vehicle, you’re more likely to be a target for this scam. Learn more about the different types of staged crashes as well as what to do if you’re involved in one.
Types of staged crashes
Manipulated accidents can take a variety of forms. However, these are a few types of commonly-staged crashes.
Swoop and stop
In this scenario, another vehicle will suddenly pull out in front of your car and stop. At the same time, another vehicle pull will pull up on the other side of your vehicle to keep you from swerving to avoid the collision.
The wave
This situation involves a driver signaling you to merge in front of their vehicle. When you start to move into their lane, that driver will then accelerate to crash into your auto. They’ll deny that they waved you ahead when the police arrive to investigate the cause of the impact.
T-bone
Another driver will wait for you to travel through an intersection, then immediately gas their car to T-bone your vehicle.
What to do if you’re involved in a staged crash
Your best defense to avoid a fraudulent accident is to keep a safe distance from other vehicles. However, if you do find yourself the victim of a staged collision, keep calm. First, record as many of the following details as you can:
- Car insurance information
- Vehicle registration information
- Driver license number
- Contact information of the other driver (name, address, phone number)
- The general height, weight, and appearance of the other car’s driver and passengers
Next, call the police to report the staged accident. Additionally, report the accident to your car insurance company.
News Source: DMV
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