DLG helps jail two fraudsters that tried to fraudulently stage a collision

Direct Line Group (DLG) has helped jail two scammers who tried to fraudulently stage a collision after purchasing already damaged vehicles just weeks earlier.

The crash reportedly occurred on Long Marston Lane, Cheddington, in August 2019 – just two weeks after an insurance policy had been taken out with DLG.

The defendant and policyholder made a call claiming to have swerved off the road to avoid an animal, colliding with a third party as a result.

The second defendant, who was the apparent driver of the third-party vehicle, jointly colluded in the claims made.

Both defendants stated there were no connections between them, although a review of their social media accounts proved that not to be the case.

The initial claim also included inaccuracies submitted through a third-party management company and exaggerated costs for damages and injuries.

Investigation

DLG’s counter fraud team and the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (Ifed), carried out an investigation into the claim.

This revealed that extensive examination of the vehicles showed that the substantial front-end damage on both cars had occurred before the alleged incident took place and that injuries sustained were not consistent with the statements provided.

Associated costs for the claim amounted to almost £90,000, with the third-party vehicle write off at £40,000, hire costs of £18,000 and £28,000 for associated injuries. All of these can now be recovered or will not be paid out.

In a court hearing, the first defendant was handed a 10-month custodial sentence, while the second received 22 months in jail.

Martin Milliner, managing director of claims at DLG, said: “These sentences are proof that anyone looking to submit fraudulent insurance claims will be punished accordingly. We are committed to ensuring that all fraudulent claims are dealt with by the relevant authorities and are delighted that these individuals have been brought to justice.

“This case highlights the relentless work of our teams to protect the public and stop criminals. Fraudulent claims increase the cost of cover for innocent motorists, so it is vital the industry continues to work in partnership with law enforcement agencies to help protect the public.

“Thank you to Ifed for its continued support and collaboration on this ensure justice for these crimes.”