Staged collisions

Being involved in a car crash is stressful no matter where, when, or how it happens. The "why," however, may matter if the crash isn't an accident.

It's estimated that thousands of collisions in the U.S. each year are the work of criminals who prey on unsuspecting drivers, and many purposefully instigate crashes so they can file fraudulent claims. Staged collisions can be just as dangerous as an everyday crash.

Luckier victims may escape with minor vehicle damage and higher premiums. Those less fortunate may be sued, traumatized, or even injured or killed. Drivers can protect themselves by recognizing potentially staged situations while driving, and taking smart steps after being involved in any crash.

Swoop & squat

Staged collisions take three basic forms. The first of these is the "swoop and squat," in which another car cuts in front of you without warning and then suddenly stops, leading you to rear-end it before you can react

Sometimes the scammers will have a second car driving alongside yours, preventing you from swerving out of danger.
After the crash, the driver or passengers in the scam vehicle claim fake injuries, usually difficult-to-disprove neck and back problems, and seek money from you or your insurance company.

Drive down

Also known as the "wave-on," this scheme involves the scam driver gesturing you to take the right of way, then deliberately running into you when you do.

Common scenarios include when you're merging into traffic, driving through a 4-way stop sign, or exiting a parking spot.

After the crash, the scammer will claim they never waved you through, or pretend they misunderstood your intentions.

A variation of this is the "T-bone," in which the scammer intentionally rams your car as you cross an intersection. Phony "witnesses" working with the scammer will then tell investigators that you ran a stop sign or red light.

Sideswipe

This maneuver occurs when you're making a turn from the inside lane of a dual-lane right or left turn and are then intentionally struck.

If you unwittingly drift into the outside lane, an opportunistic scammer may ram you before you can correct your course.

This can take place near the beginning, middle, or end of the turn, so it’s important to stay in your lane for the entire turn.

How to avoid staged collisions

Be alert

As an alert driver, you should always be aware of the vehicles in front of and around you. Even if you’re not changing lanes, keep track of cars that may be in your blind spots. If you feel you’re “boxed in” by other drivers, slow down and back out.

Don't tailgate

Tailgating is unsafe for plenty of reasons unrelated to staged collisions, but it also makes you an easy target for a swoop-and-squat scammer. The more space you leave, the more room you’ll have to stop if the car in front of you suddenly brakes.

Know if you're at risk

Since they’re seeking a payout, scammers may target you if you’re driving a luxury or commercial vehicle, which may have more insurance coverage.

Solo drivers are also more at risk, since they lack passengers who could be witnesses.

Consider getting a dash cam

Dashboard cameras, more commonly known as dash cams, can provide an objective account of what occurred in a collision. It's difficult to defend yourself against a fraud claim if it’s your word against that of multiple scammers, but having video of the scam in progress can help expose it.

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What to do after a crash

Get to safety: Even if you suspect the crash may be fraudulent, the first steps are the same for any collision. Remove your vehicle from traffic, if possible. Let the other driver know you’re not fleeing. If the crash is more than a fender-bender, call 911.
Collect information: Get the other driver's name, address, driver’s license number, VIN, insurance policy number, and license plate number. Take pictures of all vehicles involved, as well as the other driver. If possible, obtain statements from nearby witnesses.
Beware of "helpers" who suddenly appear: Tow trucks that you didn't request may charge inflated rates or hold your vehicle hostage. Similarly, avoid strangers who tell you to see a particular auto body shop, doctor, or lawyer, as it could be a setup.
If you suspect fraud, call the police: An objective police report signed by an officer could be invaluable later if scammers try to change or embellish their account of what happened.

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