Being involved in a car accident can be frightening, but when the accident is staged, you may also feel duped. Many law-abiding citizens have never heard of a staged car accident until it happens to them. Yet these types of scams occur every day all across the country. It is important to understand what staged car accidents are so you can defend against them and prevent them from happening in the first place.
Staged Car Accidents
There are several different ways that a car accident can be staged. In general, a staged accident occurs when another driver forces you into an accident that will ultimately make you appear at fault. One of the most common types of staged car accidents happens when the car in front of you stops suddenly, giving you no other option than to hit the vehicle from behind. Other scammers may choose to slam into you in an intersection, and then use false witnesses to say that you ran a red light.
Still another scenario arises when a driver signals you to allow you to change lanes and then instead lets you hit them. The driver will later deny that they signaled you to proceed. These and other situations are dangerous and can cause you plenty of misery and money. Any time you are involved in any accident, be sure to request a copy of the other party’s driver’s license and proof of insurance.
Preventing Staged Accidents
Prevention is the best way to avoid being blamed for an accident you did not cause. Defensive driving is essential in the prevention of all accidents. When you see a driver who is driving erratically, remain as far away from the other vehicle as possible. Do not tailgate – allow enough room between you and the car in front so that you can stop when they do. Be prepared in case an accident happens so you can take photos and make notes at the scene. Some people are more susceptible to scams than others. For example, those who drive an expensive car may be targeted more often, and those who are older may also be at higher risk.
Defending Against a Staged Car Accident
Staged accidents can be difficult to defend, especially when the drivers use accomplices as witnesses. Drivers may want to get money to repair other damage to their vehicles or collect for injuries that are falsified. As soon as the accident occurs, call the police and file a police report (here’s how long after an accident can you file a police report in Philadelphia). Be sure to let the police know that you believe you were not at fault, and provide a clear account of what happened. At the scene of the accident, get the names of witnesses besides those who are possibly associated with the other driver. There may be some surveillance cameras in place nearby that could help you prove how the incident happened.
It is often necessary to seek help from a qualified auto accident attorney. Your lawyer will be able to review all aspects of your case and assist in resolving it favorably. If you are the victim of a staged accident, contact the experienced Philadelphia car accident attorneys at The Pearce Law Firm, P.C. for a consultation.
