Auto accident cases are one of the most common type of personal injury cases. Unfortunately, insurance fraud is sometimes associated with these auto accidents. If you have been involved in an auto accident and are concerned about fraud, it is a good idea to talk with your attorney or insurance carrier to discuss your case.
What Is Insurance Fraud?
Insurance fraud is any fraudulent action taken with the intent of getting an insurer to pay money. Examples of insurance fraud include, but are not limited to:
- Claims that the extent of damages includes damage previously done on a vehicle;
- Claims that the extent of injuries is more severe than they are;
- Filing more than one claim for an injury;
- Filing claims for injuries not actually related to an automobile accident;
- Reporting a higher cost of repairs than were actually paid;
- Reporting wage loss that did not occur or exaggerating income loss;
- Submitting claims for medical treatments that were not received; and
- Registering a car in an area where you don't actually live to get cheaper rates.
The incidents of automobile insurance fraud is suspected to be as high as 30 percent of all claims. Some forms of fraud are more seriously prosecuted than others; however, all of the above activities constitute fraud.
Common Auto Insurance Schemes
In addition to fraud directly imposed on the insurance agency, there are a number of schemes individuals may use to commence a fraudulent claim and impose liability on you and your insurer. The following common schemes should put you on notice of other drivers actions:
- Driver in front of you suddenly slams on breaks for no reason, causing you to rear-end him; and
- A driver waves you to go ahead and then abruptly crashes into your vehicle; later the driver denies having given you the go ahead.
Unfortunately, people sometimes get involved in these questionable schemes to collect money from you and your insurance. If you suspect fraud may be involved in your auto accident case, discuss the possibility with your insurance and get an attorney to advise you.
Getting Legal Advice
If you were involved in an auto accident and are concerned about avoiding auto insurance fraud, you can discuss your situation confidentially with an experienced lawyer. An attorney will be able to advise you of the law and how it effects your situation. Because your discussion will be confidential, you do not need to be concerned about your attorney discussing your case with anyone else.
