Tampa, FL March 4, 2010 -
WHO: The Tampa Police Department, Allstate and CFO Alex Sink
WHAT: Tampa Police officers will demonstrate a common staged auto accident called the “swoop and squat.” In this crime, criminals attract a driver’s attention from one car, while an accomplice in a second car in front of the victim slams on the breaks causing a rear-end collision.
WHEN: Friday, March 5, 9:30 a.m.
WHERE: Tampa Police Academy, 116 South 34th Street, Tampa
DETAILS:
The Tampa Police Department, Allstate and the Florida Division of Insurance Fraud are working together to educate consumers on auto insurance fraud, how to avoid becoming a victim and what to look for at the scene of an accident. Tampa is experiencing an upsurge in staged auto accidents. Criminals use this tactic to target unsuspecting motorists and file inflated claims all in an effort to bilk insurance companies out of money. According to a recent study by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), Tampa ranked number one in Florida and ranked number two in the country for staged auto collisions.
According to the NICB, Florida led the nation in staged accident questionable claims for the first half of 2009. Tampa ranks second in the country for staged accident questionable claims slightly behind Brooklyn, NY.
Consumers can help protect themselves by giving plenty of distance between their car and the one in front of them and by paying close attention to their surroundings and changing traffic conditions. If an accident does occur:
• Call the police and file a report
• Exchange information with the motorist involved and write down license numbers
• Be aware of potential witnesses, get their contact information
• Carry a notepad and record information about the accident as soon as possible
• Use your cell phone camera or carry a disposable camera and take pictures at the scene
• Be wary of unsolicited tow truck operators
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