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‘Crash for Cash’ is a form of insurance fraud in which drivers and moped riders stage road traffic collisions to gain compensation. There has been a rise in ‘crash for cash’ fraud involving mopeds across the UK with over 4,500 people targeted since June 2021. Fraudulent insurance claims total an estimated £70 million. Criminal gangs are behind these incidents and will make exaggerated insurance claims for injury and/or replacement moped costs. What to look out for: Beware of single parked vans near junctions. ‘Crash for cash’ moped riders often use them as hiding spots.Be wary of moped riders loitering or acting suspiciously in residential areas. Often, they will hang around in small roads off busy high streets before staging a collision. Please report any suspcious activity including registration numbers to us.‘Crash for cash’ fraudsters overreact and fake injuries after crashes.Moped riders will often keep their helmets on after a collision to avoid identification.How to protect yourself against ‘crash for cash’ fraud Be cautious when on the road and give all drivers adequate distance in front and behind. They want you to get close so they can slam on their brakes, so let them know you won't be fooled by stopping if need. They'll soon realise you're aware of their plan and drive off.Fitting a dashcam to the front and rear of your vehicle can help deter offenders. If you become victim to, or witness, a ‘crash for cash’ incident, dashcam footage may help prove that an insurance claim is fraudulent. It could also help us prosecute offenders.If you see a suspicious crash, offer to be a witness to the driver. Gather as much information as possible. This could be the make and model of the moped, its number plate or the clothing the moped rider is wearing.‘Crash for cash’ moped riders may try to pressure you into presenting your driving licence and insurance certificate after a collision, which they will photograph on their mobile phone. In some instances, the information on these documents has been used to fraudulently take out insurance policies. Protect your ID from being compromised by only providing the other driver with the insurance information that is legally required.Local officers area always on the look out for drivers who may be involved in this activity and follow up on all intelligence. Please be aware but not alarmed at this activity. |
