If you are involved in a serious automobile accident and don’t have insurance, you could pay severely. Because having car insurance is mandated by the government, it has pushed many car owners right into the hands of car insurance scammers. Most car owners don’t know they are caught in a scam until it’s too late–after they have paid hundreds or even thousands of dollars in costly premiums. It may not always be easy to know when you are being scammed, but there are things you can keep an eye out for.
Car insurance scams come in many forms. You can fall victim to an insurance scam that is run by a well-organized ring or by an individual. It is important to note that car insurance scams have been around for a long time, and most crime rings have adapted well to avoid the probing eyes of law enforcement. It may not always be easy to tell when you have been caught in a scam as most scammers come across as legitimate insurance firms. But, not all scams come from insurance firms; they also come from other drivers.
Some people may actually set up an accident so as to scam their insurance. Be careful that you are not victim to this type of scam. If you are ever involved in an accident with another driver and you believe it is not your fault, always document the situation with as many details as possible. If you have a camera, take photos of the accident scene. Exchange insurance information with the other driver quickly. If the driver attempts to leave, do not stop them, but write down or remember their license plate number so that you can provide it to the police.
Types of Car Insurance Scams
Common car accident scams involve rear-end accidents. Insurance scammers are known to get in front of unsuspecting drivers and slam their brakes. This causes the drivers to rear-end the scammers. Rear-end accidents look bad on the driver (you) who caused the accident and you may find it difficult to persuade a judge that you were not the one at fault.
Scammers may also inflict additional damage on their vehicles in an attempt to drive up rewards for damages. These damages can be done after the accident scene or may be from an existing accident the scammer did not report. Always remember the details of any accident precisely and always obtain a copy of the police report.
How to Protect Yourself
Although car insurance scams can happen to anyone, you should educate yourself so that you are not more likely to become a victim. When purchasing any car insurance plan, always read the fine print. This will inform you of your rights and what is considered a legitimate claim according to your firm. When involved in accidents involving other drivers, always remember to document the situation and gather relevant insurance information.
Lastly, the best way to avoid an insurance scam is to try avoiding accidents altogether. Drive safely and defensively so that you can make the roads better for all involved. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, contact experienced attorney W. Winston Briggs to help with your case.