Fleets Caught in Crash for Cash Scams
Fleet operators are being warned of an increase in “crash for cash” scams.
Following the newest updates to the Highway Code, experts predict a potential increase in false injury claims.
The Changes to the Highway Code saw a new hierarchy of road users. This gave pedestrians more priority on the roads. This change also means larger vehicles such as vans have more responsibility for road safety. For example in the case of a traffic accident, the vehicle would automatically be more liable than the pedestrian.
The new rules also state drivers must now give way to pedestrians waiting to cross the road, including at junctions.
What Do the Experts Think?
But some have criticized this move as it may create more issues. During a recent webinar, experts suggested the new system allowed exploitation.
They suggest installing vehicle safety techs to protect themselves from scammers.
These new rules allow “crash for cash” scammers to target branded fleet vehicles in the hope of a big injury claim payout.
Without proof such as dashcam footage, the fleet would be liable as they have less priority according to the new hierarchy rule.
Comment
Matt Hammond, Head of the fleet at M Group Services, highlighted his concern that this could be an issue with people walking out into the road without looking.
He commented:
“It means dashcams will become more relevant and crucial in defending potential claims”.
Lorna McAtear, National Grid Fleet Manager furthered this point. She suggested that this could become a recurring issue:
“until people realize that fleets do have cameras”.
How Will Telematics Help?
In-vehicle safety technology is becoming more important for fleets across the UK.
A study from Brigade Electronics earlier this year found safety technology reduced collisions or near-misses for 59% of fleets.
The study also found that 44% of fleet operators said they felt the cameras helped with insurance claims.
It’s likely that as we see the implications of the new Highway code more and more fleets will install some form of road safety technology. Those who do have safety cameras agree that the benefits are worth the investment.
73% of respondents rated vehicle cameras and recording technology as a 4/5 or higher.
The meeting ended with all parties agreeing that a priority for safety on the road is ultimately a good thing, as long as pedestrians and drivers both adhere to the rules sensibly.
How can we help?
Our telematics solutions can help keep your fleet out of trouble. The FORS camera solutions give a full 360 view of your vehicle inside and outside the cab. This shows exactly how your drivers and other road users are behaving. This can help your defence in the case of an insurance claim and even bring your insurance premiums down. All this data is accessible live via the monitoring solution.
Fleets Caught in Crash for Cash Scams