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TWFG CALIFORNIA BLOG

Staged Auto Accidents

4/13/2016

 

Staged Auto Accidents:

How to spot them & How to avoid them

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What is a Staged Auto Accident?
A staged auto accident is when a person, or persons plan a car crash for insurance money. This often means involving an unsuspecting driver whose insurance company ends up paying out large sums.  According to the FBI, these kinds of accidents cost the insurance industry up to $20 billion per year. 

Some Common Staged Accidents:
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The Drive Down:
You’re attempting to merge when another driver waves you  forward. Instead of letting you in, he slams into your car. The driver will deny ever motioning you. 

The Swoop and Squat: The first car “swoops” in while another “squats” in front of you. After the “accident,” passengers will file bogus injury claims with your insurance company.

The T-Bone: You’re crossing an intersection when a car coming from a side street accelerates and hits your car. When the police arrive, the driver and several planted “witnesses” claim that you ran a red light or stop sign.
Some Tips to Keep You Safe:
  • If you’re in an accident, call the police immediately. 
  • Report accident claims immediately. ​
  • Don’t settle on-site with cash. 
  • Be careful with your personal information—be mindful of identity theft. 
  • If you can, photograph the car and passengers and write down names, addresses and phone numbers. 
  • Use medical, car repair and legal professionals you know and trust. ​
  •  Drive defensively...don’t tailgate!

Did You Know?
Our office has a 24/7 "warm" line?  You can call our office number at any time to be forwarded to the after hours cell-phone. If someone doesn't answer right away, we will get back to you as soon as possible. 

When an Accident Happens, Document Everything!
The best way to protect yourself after an accident occurs is to take detailed notes.The more you have, the more equipped you are to fight a fraudulent claim. Your notes should include (when possible): the driver’s license number, the VIN, the car insurance information, the name, address and phone number of the driver and the number of passengers (and their general height and weight). Additionally, be sure to take pictures of the involved vehicles from every angle that you can.

If you're in an accident, remember that we are here for you.
​510-573-4745

What you want to know about Auto Insurance, A few FAQ’s:

12/3/2015

 
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Q: What do I need to do if I get into an accident?
A: Get to a safe location, exchange information with the other parties, take pictures, obtain license plate information of other vehicle and then report the claim to your insurance company.

Q: What do i need to know about my deductible?
A: your deductible applies to YOUR car in the event of a covered loss, and it applies mainly to collision and comprehensive coverages and does not apply to liability or medical coverages.

Q: What are the different insurance options?
A: There are several insurance options, starting from the basic state required coverage and several additional coverages. Some of these coverages are briefly outlined here:

  • Liability (required in California) – Liability pays for damage caused to others if you are at fault in a covered accident. No deductible applies
  • Property Damage (required in California) – Property damage pays for damages that you are liable for in a covered accident. For example: other vehicles, house, poles, fences, etc.
  • Collision – Collision covers damage to your vehicle incurred as a result of a covered accident, regardless of fault. Deductible does apply
  • Comprehensive – Comprehensive covers everything other than Collision. some examples of comprehensive are: fire, theft, vandalism, rock hits the windshield. Deductible does apply
  • Medical – Medical covers medical expenses resulting from injuries sustained in an auto accident, covering you, your passengers, and other authorized drivers of your insured vehicle. No deductible applies
  • Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist – Pays for damages caused by a driver with inadequate or no insurance.
Q: How much coverage do I really need?
A: The answer to this question is always “it depends”. On one hand, there is a certain level of coverage that is required to satisfy state regulations, however if you do not carry enough coverage, your assets will be at risk. Talk to your agent about the best options for protecting your assets.

Q: What if i get locked out of my car? Does my insurance cover that?
A: Yes! if you have towing coverage, then you should be covered for all towing and labor charges including those pesky times when you lock your keys in your car. Check with your agent to see if your policy covers this.

Q:Am I still covered if I make modifications to my vehicle?
A: As always, it depends. Most policies only cover factory parts, or you are only covered up to $1,000 for any after market parts on your vehicle. Ask your agent how this affects your vehicle and how you can get additional coverages to protect your vehicle.



Auto Insurance

1/1/2015

 
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What you need to know about Auto Insurance .

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