Ageas, one of the UK’s largest motor insurers, has identified a worrying increase in so-called ‘Crash for Cash’ scams involving cars and mopeds, with a significant rise in suspected incidents in the Bristol area, specifically Bishopston.  

This type of fraud sees moped riders deliberately manoeuvring their vehicles into the path of reversing vehicles, often vans, to induce an impact and then claim for damage and injuries. 

These induced accidents were first reported in London in Summer 2023, when mopeds were being deliberately driven into vehicles pulling from out from side roads. However, Ageas is now seeing a rise in this scam in Bristol, with a 190% increase in accidents involving reversing vehicles and mopeds. 

Katie Davies, Director of Underwriting Services and Fraud at Ageas, said: “Our fraud intelligence team has seen a significant rise in this crash for cash scam in Bristol and other large urban centres. We would like to warn drivers to be aware of the tell-tale signs of faked accidents as this can help them avoid falling victim to this continuing scam. We urge everyone to stay vigilant on the roads and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.” 

What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident 

  • Capture Details: If you are involved in an accident, do not accept liability and try to capture as many details as possible. This should include full details of the other driver, including their phone number and registration number, make and model of the vehicle and any distinguishing features of the driver/rider. You are required to provide details of your insurance, however, do not hand over or provide copies of your insurance certificate, or driving licence. 
  • CCTV and Witnesses: Take a good look at your surroundings to see if there are any doorbell cameras or CCTV that have captured the crash. If other drivers or pedestrians stop to offer assistance, ask if they saw the accident and are willing to act as a witness. However, do be mindful that any witnesses could be part of the scam. 
  • Take Images of the Vehicles: Capture images of the vehicles, their positions, as well as any damage caused. 
  • Report the Incident: Report the incident to your insurer as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details you have captured.  
  • Contact the Authorities: If you suspect that you have been a victim of a ‘Crash for cash’ scam, report it to the police and the Insurance Fraud Bureau’s Cheatline.