'Crash for cash' warning to Telford drivers - watch the video
Drivers are being warned to be on their guard after a spate of "crash for cash" incidents in Telford.
Officers are investigating after two near-misses at the Red House roundabout on the A518 at Lilleshall, between Telford and Newport in the last three days.
There have also been reports of similar incidents in Dawley and Madeley in recent weeks
West Mercia Police has released a short video of dashcam footage of an attempted crash for cash scam which took place last year at the same roundabout.
The vehicle involved in that incident was found to be fitted with false number plates to mask its true identity.
PC Lee Thomas from the Newport Safer Neighbourhood Team said: "We hope by releasing this video, people will see how easy it is to become a victim of one of these scams.
"False and exaggerated insurance claims by those involved in crash for cash incidents are costing the motor industry an estimated £340 million a year and they are crimes of fraud.
"As genuine motorists we are all picking up the cost of these scams through increased premiums year on year.
"For the victims of these crimes, it can also mean loss of their no claims bonus or further premium increases when they next come to renew their insurance through no fault of their own."
PC Thomas said he was keen to emphasise how important dashcams have proved in the fight against car insurance criminals.
He said: "I can't stress enough the advantage and worth of investing in a dashcam for your car.
"They can be purchased now from as little as £20 in High Street stores and online, and could provide you with undeniable proof of who was really at fault in the event you fall victim to a crash for cash gang.
PC Thomas also said that anyone involved in a collision who thinks it may be a crash for cash incident should call the police straight away.
He added: "Under normal circumstances, if the collision is damage only, no one is injured and the road is not blocked, there is no need for police attendance but if you tell the operator you've been victim of a crash for cash scam then officers can be deployed to investigate.
"The telltale signs are the other driver getting out of their vehicle and already having their details written down, moving their car 'round the corner' so you cannot see it, how many people are in it or what the extent of any supposed damage is or a claim that they do not wish to involve the police or go through their insurance company."
