As we approach the summer months, there were already some scorching hot days – so we are offering tips to help keep you safe and healthy in the inevitable heat coming our way. We added tips for avoiding staged accidents, since it has become evident that they are a major contributor to rising insurance rates.
Extreme Heat Alert
Drink plenty of water (at least two liters a day during a heat wave).
Check your vehicle fluids and belts prior to every shift.
Keep your vehicle cool for passengers.
Remember: Not all drivers have air conditioning. The extreme heat can cause road rage, so try to be extra patient.
Beware of pedestrians that may be dehydrated or light-headed, causing them to act in an unsafe manner.
Help senior citizens in and out of your vehicle and ask them if they are okay or need any assistance.
Remember: Children may be playing in the street at open fire hydrants. Do not lose your temper if your vehicle is sprayed with water from one.
Be patient with Con Edison workers disrupting traffic. They are providing an essential and often life-saving service to all of us during a heat wave.
Protect Yourself from Staged Accidents
Staged accidents are very common in New York. The best way to partner with your insurance company to fight fraud is to take immediate action after any accident or incident, no matter how seemingly minor. Fraudsters often stage what seem like very minor accidents, so they don’t make you suspicious. They have another car tap your car, usually a minor rear-end or side-swipe. Your passengers may not report any injuries to you, but they may soon begin getting treatment for their non-existent injuries from the ring’s fraudulent medical providers – for an average $50,000 or more! No matter how minor the impact, follow these steps:
Pull over to a safe place.
Take a photo (or preferably video) of the other car and its license plate.
If the other driver attempts to flee, act quickly. If you can’t get a photo (or video), write down their license plate number and state immediately, along with as many details as possible – type of car, color, make, etc.
Take photos (or video) of the other vehicle’s damage, no matter how minor.
If possible, take a photo (or video) of the other car’s vehicle identification number (VIN), found on driver’s door or windshield.
Take a photo (or video) of their driver’s license, insurance and registration. Get the same from any other drivers involved.
Take photos (or video) of your vehicle’s damage, even if it’s seemingly minor.
Call 911 if anyone claims to be injured.
Take basic notes, so you don’t forget details later: What you were doing when hit, how long the other car may have been following you and any suspicious actions by the other driver or your passengers. Also: Draw a basic diagram of how the accident happened.
Report the incident to your insurance broker as soon as possible!
Quick Tip of the Month
Never leave your vehicle’s keys where children (especially teenagers) have access to them. There have been instances recently in which teenagers have taken commercial vehicles for joy rides, resulting in accidents and serious injuries.
