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Birmingham is the worst offender for ‘crash for cash’ scams

26 May 2021

Figures from the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) show that in a list of crash for cash’ hotspots, Birmingham and Bradford are the worst offenders.

Postcodes B25, B34 and B8 in Birmingham are the three worst offending areas for this scam, and the IFB says that single gangs can be behind thousands of orchestrated collisions. Interestingly, the IBF said that it had recently worked with City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) to convict a ‘serial’ crash for cash scammer in Birmingham.

Throughout the UK, 170,000 out of 2.7 million motor insurance claims made between October 2019 and December 2020 were potentially linked to 'crash for cash' networks.

IFB director Ben Fletcher said, “'Crash for cash' fraudsters bring devastation to countless victims and increase motor insurance costs for us all.

“The IFB’s hotspot analysis is a stark reminder that although great strides have been taken in tackling the problem, these car crash scams are all too common.

“As traffic levels return to normal following the national lockdown, 'crash for cash' fraudsters may look to make up for lost time. It is hoped that by shining a spotlight on the issue we will encourage road users to be alert and report any suspicious activity to the IFB’s Cheatline.”

The IFB advises drivers to remain vigilant for suspicious driving behaviour. For example, if another motorist brakes harshly at a junction or roundabout. Remember, stay safe, stay back. 

You can report suspicious activity to the IFB’s Cheatline on 0800 422 0421 or at www.insurancefraudbureau.org/cheatline.

We at Marshall Leasing are always pleased to share information about road safety, and trust that you find this useful. If you would like to find out more about how we can help you to keep your drivers safe, please get in touch with us at info@marshall-leasing.co.uk or by calling 01480 414541. Alternatively, please complete our contact form. 

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