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In most situations, a car accident is just that - an accident. However, there are certain situations when a car accident is anything but that. Unfortunately, too many drivers don't realize that there are predators out there who will stage an event that results in what seems like an accident in the hopes that they can convince you that you're the one to blame. Here's a look at what you need to know about staged car accident scams and how to determine if you were part of one.
What Exactly Is A Staged Car Accident?
If you've been involved in a car accident of any kind, your car accident lawyer will want to be sure that you understand staged car accidents just in case that's what happened to you. A staged car accident is a situation where you've been targeted by one or more individuals who seek to make you feel responsible for the ensuing accident that they cause.
The actual event can vary widely, including everything from brake-checks to pretending to be struck in a crosswalk. No matter what the actual accident may be, a staged accident is not your fault but is instead organized and executed deliberately by the other party.
How Can You Tell If You Were Part Of A Staged Car Accident?
The truth is that it can be difficult to determine whether or not the accident you were involved in was staged. Especially when you're dealing with someone who is experienced in this type of scam, you'll find that you may question even your best recollections.
However, there are a few key indications that may alert you to the possibility of a staged car accident. For example, if you don't recall seeing any witnesses at all in the area, but then suddenly find several witnesses immediately following the incident who all support the other party's recollection of the events, that's a key indication that you were part of a staged car accident.
Also, many staged car accidents include a vehicle with several passengers so that they can claim maximum personal injuries. They'll seek to max out the per-person limitations on medical insurance payments. Finally, another common indication of a staged accident is a situation where the other driver encourages you to settle the situation without calling the police. Many times, smaller staged accidents are settled directly between the drivers so that the scammer can hide the settlement.
What Are The Types Of Staged Car Accidents?
There are many types of staged car accidents, but understanding what some of those are can help you to recognize them if you find yourself in such a situation.
For example, you may find that you're targeted by two vehicles, where one pulls in front of you, then the second pulls in front of them and slams on their brakes. This creates a pile-up where you'll then be blamed for rear-ending the car in front of you and causing the chain reaction.
Sometimes, you'll find that a car stages just alongside the road awaiting an opportunity to pull out in front of you, or runs a red light and then blames you for striking them, arranging witnesses to say that your light was the one that was red.
What Should You Do In The Face Of A Staged Accident?
If you have any reason to believe that the accident you were involved in was staged, you'll want to start by taking as many photos of the scene as you can. Immediately record your recollection of the accident on your smartphone or digital recorder. Then, call the police immediately so that you can get a report filed of the incident.
Once the police have been dispatched, call a car accident attorney in your area. That way, they can give you any other direct advice at the scene. The better prepared you are, the safer you will be in the aftermath of the accident.
Staged car accidents can cost unsuspecting victims tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. That's why it's important for you to understand what staged accidents are and how to recognize them. Don't try to navigate something like this by yourself. Instead, reach out to a local car accident attorney as soon as you can to get the legal guidance and support that you need to protect your interests.
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