AXA UK warns drivers to beware of ‘crash for cash’ motorcycle fraud

AXA UK is warning motorists to be on their guard after witnessing an alarming rise in the number of claims linked to deliberate motorcycle crashes, where drivers' personal details are also being stolen and used fraudulently.  

Since 2023, around 1,000 claims have been investigated by the insurer's fraud team, with more than 700 identified as 'crash for cash' scams. The schemes are often professionally operated by organised fraud rings and involve riders deliberately causing an accident with a car, enabling them to submit injury and vehicle damage claims as well as adding other expenses into the claim for compensation. Fraudsters are now changing their patterns to include obtaining personal details of the driver at the scene, which they then use for fraudulent activity such as taking out multiple insurance policies. 

Tactics to be alert to include motorcycles deliberately cutting in front of vehicles and braking sharply and aggressive or pushy behaviour from the riders in seeking an immediate admission of fault. Elements of the accident may also appear staged, such as the bike slowly falling to the ground or motorcycles positioning themselves behind a parked vehicle trying to create a collision when the car driver reverses.  

Other things to look out for include bike riders who refuse to remove their helmets, claim they can’t speak English or request personal details such as a driving licence. Anyone involved in a collision is advised to gather as much evidence as possible by taking photos at the scene, especially of the vehicle and the rider. Getting contact details for any witnesses who can corroborate their version of events is also essential – although some fraudsters may have accomplices nearby ready to act as their own witnesses.  Drivers should also be wary of post-accident fraud tactics that may involve fraudsters or accident management companies getting in contact within hours of the incident claiming to be from the insurance company or offering a courtesy vehicle.

Criminals behind fraudulent motorcycle activity are preying on innocent drivers, causing not only financial harm but also emotional distress. They often target the elderly or lone women drivers because they are seen as softer targets.  

Insurance fraud, especially crimes like ‘crash for cash’, has far-reaching consequences that affect every member of society beyond trauma of those involved. When fraudsters exploit the system, the financial burden is passed on to customers through higher premiums. 

By staying vigilant and working together, we can help protect everyone from falling victim to these malicious scams.

AXA customer Phil Allcock soon realised he’d fallen prey to a scam after he was involved in a minor road accident that appeared legitimate at the time. He discovered that his details had been illegally used to set up fraudulent insurance policies. This case highlights the serious consequences of these scams, which can extend far beyond the initial incident and cause lasting damage to victims.

A moped appeared out of nowhere and hit the front of my car. The rider then dramatically fell off before scrambling to his feet and immediately started taking photos. I was shaken up and when he asked to photograph my driving licence, I let him. 

Within two or three weeks, I started receiving letters from insurance companies. To date, I have been told that eleven vehicles have been insured using my driving licence details. I’ve also had notices of intended prosecution from the Metropolitan Police as a result of two of these vehicles breaking the speed limit. 

All of this has caused considerable stress to both me and my wife and I have spent hours on the phone and on emails trying to address this situation. 

Thankfully, AXA has been extremely helpful and understanding throughout.