Evidence helps reduce the cost of auto insurance fraud



(NC ) — An auto accident is filled with confusion and mixed emotions. But if you are thorough with collecting evidence and information at the accident site, you not only help your insurance company process your claim, you also help to prevent fraud.

If your evidence is limited or non-existent, you unwittingly make it more difficult for your insurance company to review your claim, says the provincial regulator, the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO). This is because cases with incomplete information are more likely to be regarded as suspicious and take more time to assess.

Staged auto accidents with fake injuries or deliberate damage concern law enforcement, government and the insurance industry. They make our roads unsafe and drive up the cost of insurance premiums for everyone. Fraud is particularly a problem in the Greater Toronto Area.

The information you collect at the scene of an auto accident will make it easier for your insurance company to process your claim, but it will also help to reduce crime. From FSCO, here's a handy little checklist to assist you:

• Put safety first, especially on busy roadways.

• Take photos or videos of the accident scene. Use your cell phone to record:

- Damage to vehicles

- Contact information for other drivers

- Drivers' licence numbers

- Drivers' licence plates

- Insurance information from vehicle 'pink' cards

- Passenger information from each vehicle in the accident, like age, gender, and contact details.

• Avoid confrontation. If evidence-collecting provokes the other driver, wait for police.

• Take note of behaviour of those involved. Does anyone suddenly act injured when police arrive?

• Report your suspicions to your insurance company.

For more information on how you can help fight auto insurance fraud, visit FSCO's website at www.fsco.gov.on.ca/fraud.

www.newscanada.com






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