A new car insurance scam tactic, dubbed "flash for
cash" has been devised by organised gangs of criminals, again targeting
innocent motorists.
The gangs lie in wait near exits for fuel stations, shops
and car parks. The innocent motorist is given the impression they are being
offered a way back on to the main road, only for the driver of the other
vehicle to accelerate into the side of it and claim no such signal was given,
which is very difficult to prove in a court of law. This shifts the blame to
the victim for seemingly cutting off the other motorist's right of way.
The Asset Protection Unit (APU), a specialist anti-fraud
firm that work closely with the police and insurance companies warned those
most at risk are the more vulnerable such as mothers on the school run and
elderly motorists. Others targeted have included those driving new, expensive
vehicles.
The Highway Code says: "Flashing headlights. Only flash your headlights to let other road
users know that you are there. Do not flash your headlights to convey any other
message or intimidate other road users. Never assume that flashing headlights
is a signal inviting you to proceed. Use your own judgement and proceed
carefully."
Unfortunately, what was once seen as a rare, friendly
gesture, is now being abused by
criminals and will now be viewed with scepticism and caution.
The Metropolitan Police's Traffic Command Detective
Inspector David Hindmarsh told Sky News: "Organised
criminal groups can set up claim management companies with the sole purpose of
defrauding the industry. Insurance costs would then be claimed for recovery of
the damaged vehicle, storage while awaiting repairs and car rental during the
period. The advice would be if someone flashes you, make sure they are either
stopped or don't risk pulling out. Always make sure it is safe to move before
you do so."
According to recent research from Allianz Your Cover Insurance, two in five cars fail their MOT test every year in the UK. Motorists are then reported to pay
more than £2 billion in repairs and the cost of a second MOT to get
their vehicle back on the road. 
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