Protect Yourself From Attempted Insurance Fraud
There’s a new, dangerous trend sweeping the nation’s driving scene. Drivers are purposefully swerving in front of truck drivers and slamming on their brakes.
There’s a new, dangerous trend sweeping the nation’s driving scene. Drivers are purposefully swerving in front of truck drivers and slamming on their brakes. Dozens of dash cam videos from truck drivers show that these drivers are purposefully endangering themselves, and brake checking when there are others on the road. Why are they doing this? Insurance fraud. These drivers hope to blame truck drivers for a fender bender, and make the truckers pay for monetary damages. Here’s how you can protect yourself from this damaging phenomenon.
1. Get a Dashcam
You should already have a dashcam, but if you don’t, it’s a must-have for any truck driver in this situation. A dashcam can ensure that you have proof someone is trying to scam you. You can take the video to the police and prove your innocence, and the offending driver will get slapped with a hefty fine and perhaps a charge.
2. Call a Cop
ALWAYS call the police when this happens. It’s possible you’ll pull over and the driver will say, “No harm, no foul.” Don’t drive away. Later on, the driver may charge you with a hit and run. On top of exchanging information, call the police so they can mediate the situation and ensure that you are being seen as the victim, not the perpetrator.
3. Write Down All Names
Sometimes, these scammers will ride with unsuspecting passengers so their claim seems more convincing. The passengers will agree that they were rear ended, and you will have no one fighting for your side if you don’t have a dashcam. Get down the names of all the occupants. Trust is a virtue, but in this case, you must be cautious.
Were you in a trucking accident? Call Middleton & Meads for post-accident damage control.
Middleton & Meads. provides quality truck and bus repair, service, and fleet management for the Baltimore, MD area. We have over 90 years of experience in the trucking industry and will provide you with customer service like you have never experienced before! If you are interested in seeing how we can help your business, give us a call at (410) 752-5588 or visit us online today! For more articles and trucking tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and LinkedIn.
