What Can I Do if I Was a Victim of a Staged Car Accident?

Do you think you were in a crash that was not an accident? Do you think the other driver might have caused the collision on purpose?

If something felt off at the scene, you are not wrong to question it. Car accident scams happen fast, and the people behind them know how to make it look like you are the one at fault.

Fortunately, you do not have to deal with the other driver or the insurance company alone. A lawyer can help you dig into the details of the fraudulent insurance claim and push back.

What Is a Staged Car Accident and How Does the Scam Work?

A staged car accident happens when someone causes a crash on purpose in the hopes of filing a false insurance claim against you. Common setups include brake-slamming in front of your car, waving you forward and then hitting you, or blocking you in so a third car can cause the crash.

After the accident, the perpetrator may fake injuries or pressure you to admit fault. Their ultimate goal is to collect money from your insurance company by lying and claiming made-up losses.

What Evidence Can Prove a Car Accident Was Intentionally Caused?

An attorney can use several types of evidence to show the crash was not really an accident, such as:

• Videos of the accident scene from dashboard, traffic, or security cameras
• Witness statements about the other driver’s odd behavior
• Car damage patterns that do not match the other driver’s story
• Links between the other driver and fake passengers, doctors, or body shops
• Past claims showing a pattern of fraud

Can You Be Held Liable for a Staged Accident You Didn’t Cause?

Possibly, but only if the scammer makes it seem like you were at fault and you do not push back with facts. That is why it is important to stay calm after a staged crash, avoid saying anything that sounds like an apology, and start gathering your own evidence right away. If you admit blame or fail to report the crash properly, insurers might try to hold you responsible.

What Should You Do Immediately If You Suspect a Staged Accident?

Call the police and ask them to come to the scene. Do not argue with the other driver or discuss blame, and do not refuse to report the accident just because you think it was a scam.

Take photos of everything and get contact information from any witnesses. If anyone seems pushy or overly dramatic, make a note of it.

Do not give statements to any insurers until you speak with a lawyer. The more details you gather after a staged accident for insurance fraud, the easier it will be to prove what happened.

How Can a Lawyer Help If You Were a Victim of a Staged Car Accident?

A lawyer can guide you through each step of your auto accident claim and fight to protect your name and your money.

An experienced car accident attorney can independently investigate the crash, gather proof, and respond to any false claims. If the scammer sues or files a fake injury report, your lawyer can challenge it with solid evidence.

Your attorney will also deal with the auto insurance company to reduce the chance of a payout based on lies. Most importantly, a knowledgeable personal injury attorney knows how to spot red flags and trace hidden connections among anyone involved in the setup.

Hurt in a Fake Car Accident Scam? Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Now

If you suspect you were involved in an intentional car crash for insurance fraud, Sumner Law Group, LLC, can help you move forward. Contact us now for a free consultation to discuss what really happened and start planning your next steps.