Leeds highlighted as crash for cash hotspot

Leeds is one of the worst areas in the country for so called “Crash for Cash'' scams.

That’s when fraudsters deliberately target innocent motorists to claim whiplash compensation, as well as staged accidents, when two damaged cars are brought together to make it look like an accident.

Insurance company Aviva detected more than 3,000 claimants last year - or one every three hours.

Tom Gardiner is their head of fraud:

Induced accidents now account for nearly half of all organised motor fraud we detect.

Crash for cash does not just push up premiums for genuine customers, it puts innocent motorists at risk. It is also a significant drain on scarce public resources such as ambulance, police and A&E time, all of which are wasted on these entirely bogus claims.''

Induced accidents remain a serious concern for all road users. However, as our figures show, we are getting better at detecting, declining and prosecuting these claims - but urgent reform is needed to remove the root cause of the problem, which is easy access to compensation and profits.

We urge motorists to remain alert to induced accidents, especially in those areas where we know this is a problem.''

Here are some tips from Aviva to minimise the risk of becoming a crash for cash victim:

:: Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front.

:: Fraudsters target roundabouts and slip roads to induce accidents. Be especially vigilant in these areas, allowing plenty of space.

:: There are frequently two cars involved in inducing an accident - the car directly in front and the car in front of that car as well. Both may drive erratically.

:: Check the brake lights. A common trait in many vehicles involved in crash for cash is the failure of the vehicle's brake lights. If you notice the car in front brakes and their lights do not work, remain cautious, allow extra space between you and the vehicle, and perhaps distance your car from theirs.

:: Is the car in front moving particularly slowly or is it slowing down and speeding up for no apparent reason? If the driver in front is focusing on the back of the vehicle, that could be a sign they are looking for an opportunity to induce an accident. If the passengers in the vehicle in front are turning around and looking at you for no reason, they may be looking for a chance to induce an accident.

Here are the top 10 crash for cash locations in 2015, according to Aviva:

1. Birmingham

2. North London

3. East London

4. Leeds

5. Harrow

6. North West London

7. Bradford

8. Luton

9. Coventry

10. Oldham

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