SEVEN areas of Bradford ranked among the worst 30 areas of the UK for ‘crash for cash’ incidents, with two areas ranked in the top five.

The BD7 area was fourth and BD3 the fifth worst-affected postcodes for ‘crash for cash’ scams, in which fraudsters invent or deliberately cause road traffic collisions, often involving innocent people, to try and get a compensation payout.

Also making the top 30 list for the UK were BD15 (13th position), BD2 (22nd), BD5 (23rd) and BD9 (30th), as well as Heckmondwike (WF16 - 19th).

The figures, compiled by the Insurance Fraud Bureau, found 170,000 claims which could be linked to suspected ‘crash for cash’ networks between October 2019 and December 2020.

‘Crash for cash’ scams take different forms, ranging from paper-based lies about incidents or vehicles being damaged behind closed doors, to the most dangerous incidents where fraudsters deliberately cause crashes targeting innocent motorists.

Investigations by the IFB found that some gangs have organised thousands of fake crashes in some areas, with the combined value of their frauds running into the millions.

The IFB hopes raising awareness of these crime hotspots will make drivers more vigilant to avoid being the victim of scams.

Stephen Dalton, Head of Intelligence and Investigations at the IFB, said: “Our hotspots analysis sadly shows people in West Yorkshire are much more likely be targeted in a reckless ‘Crash for Cash’ scam, so we urge community members to be vigilant.

“We’re committed to cracking down on these dangerous fraudsters and we’re calling on the public’s support.

“If anyone thinks they have evidence of a ‘Crash for Cash’ scam it can be reported to the IFB’s Cheatline on 0800 422 0421.”

Councillor Mohammed Shafiq (Labour, Bradford Moor) was shocked BD3 ranked so highly on the list.

He said: “Crash for cash is a serious crime having a big impact on law-abiding drivers in BD3.

“People committing these crimes have a significant impact, and I urge the police to take strong action and to prosecute the perpetrators.

“When premiums rise it has implications for families in my ward who work hard and follow the rules but see their premiums go up.

“Fraud is not a victimless crime and has a huge impact on innocent people, and I support the police to tackle all forms of crime to make our streets safer.”

Ramona Senior, head of West Yorkshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit, said: “West Yorkshire Police are working in partnership with City of London Police and the IFB to help the public recognise the warning signs associated with ‘crash for cash’ fraud.

“The actions of these fraudsters result in increased premiums for all drivers and are a risk to public safety. In addition they cause fear and inconvenience to those involved.

“Fraudsters have no regard for the consequences of their actions and are motivated purely and simply by greed. Information from the public is critical to tackling these criminal networks and bringing these offenders to justice.”

Tips have been shared for drivers to avoid falling victim to fraudsters, including keeping a good distance back from the vehicle in front, keeping alert for unusual driving, being cautious at junction, and keeping your distance from vehicles with dents and other damage.

Also, if you are in a collision ways to spot a scam are if: the driver and passengers seem unphased by the crash, they exaggerate injuries, and if pre-written insurance information is handed over.