CV operators warned as ‘cash for crash’ scams up by half

The Freight Transport Association has warned professional drivers to be on the lookout for ‘crash for cash’ fraud – in which accidents are deliberately caused in order to file compensation for whiplash – following recent press reports that incidents have increased by almost half over the past year.

FTA highlights motor insurer reports which suggested that 865 dishonest claims are being made every week, worth £10.4 million – but says the impact of ‘crash for cash’ is likely to be lessened by the proliferation of in-vehicle cameras.

Said FTA: “It appears the ‘crash for cash’ scammers are targeting commercial vehicles in particular. As van and HGV drivers account for a large proportion of road users they are considered as ‘easy prey’ by the crooks.”

Don Armour, manager of fleet information at FTA, added: “Regretfully it is becoming more essential for freight operators to rely on security equipment and devices to defend their position in court, and ensure security of their drivers.

“These ‘crash for cash’ incidents are yet another obstacle for professional drivers to contend with in their day to day work, but security equipment is another tool in their armoury to combat this sort of criminality.”

He added: “FTA is recommending to its members that they should be aware of the ‘crash for cash’ opportunists, and that they must take all measures possible to avoid being scammed.  They should inform their drivers of these sorts of crimes; take measures to avoid these type of incidents; and install security equipment including forward facing cameras where appropriate.”

A range of safety equipment is available from the association’s ShopFTA division – including ‘plug and play’ forward-facing cameras suitable for HGVs, vans and cars, and 360° camera systems suitable for all large vehicles, which also improve visibility of vulnerable road users including cyclists.

In June, insurer Aviva said it had detected over 6,000 motor injury claims “linked to organised fraud activity” and called for stronger legal deterrents.

“The fast growth of induced accidents on our roads is cause for serious concern,” said Tom Gardiner, head of claims fraud at Aviva.

“Fraudsters are prepared to put the safety of innocent motorists’ and their families and passengers at risk for their own personal gain. Fraudulent accidents also divert significant public resources such as police, ambulances, emergency services and court time away from real need.

“We believe that convictions for motor injury fraud resulting from induced accidents should result in more custodial sentences that recognise the unique physical harm that this form of insurance fraud poses to motorists, as well as the wider social costs. Stronger sentences will deter would-be fraudsters and help to keep roads safer and premiums lower for customers.”