Accident claims phone calls are common, especially after you’ve been in an accident. But not all these calls are from honest companies. Some could be scams trying to trick you. In this article, we’ll explain what to do when you get these calls, how to tell if they are real, and how to protect yourself.
What Are Accident Claims Phone Calls?
Accident claims phone calls are calls from companies that offer to help you make a claim after an accident. They might say they can help you get money for injuries, damages to your car, or medical bills. Some calls are helpful, but others could be from scammers who want to take your money or personal details.
Why Do Companies Call About Accident Claims?
These companies might call because they think you’ve been in an accident. They could get your phone number from public records, online forms, or other sources. If you didn’t ask for help, the call could be unwanted. And if you didn’t give permission, it might even be a scam.
How to Recognize a Real Accident Claims Call
If you get a phone call about accident claims, here’s how to tell if it’s real:
1. They Should Tell You Who They Are
A real company will give you their name, website, and phone number. You should be able to easily find information about the company online. If they refuse to give you any details or seem evasive, it could be a scam.
2. Did You Ask for Help?
Ask yourself if you ever signed up to receive calls from this company. Did you give them your contact details through a website or form? If not, the call might be suspicious.
3. Don’t Feel Pressured to Act Fast
Scammers often try to rush you into making a decision quickly. They might say things like, “You have to act now to get your compensation!” If someone is pushing you to act fast, it could be a scam.
What to Do If You Think It’s a Scam
If you think the call might be a scam, here’s what you should do:
1. Hang Up
If you feel uncomfortable, just hang up. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
2. Block the Number
If you get repeated calls from the same number, block it on your phone. Many smartphones have an option to block unwanted numbers.
3. Report the Call
You can report suspicious calls to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). They will investigate the company and stop them from calling other people. You can also report it to Action Fraud, which helps protect people from scams.
How to Protect Yourself from Accident Claims Scams
There are steps you can take to protect yourself from scams:
1. Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
TPS is a free service that stops companies from calling you unless you’ve agreed to it. By registering with TPS, you can reduce the number of cold calls you get, including unwanted accident claims calls.
2. Be Careful What You Share Online
Some websites ask for your phone number or email, and they may share your details with other companies. Always read the privacy policy before submitting your information. If you don’t want to get calls, make sure you don’t agree to share your details with third-party companies.
3. Use Call-Blocking Services
Many mobile phone providers offer services that block scam calls. You can also download apps to help block unwanted calls automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I know if an accident claims call is real?
A real company will tell you who they are, offer clear contact details, and won’t rush you into making decisions. If they refuse to give information or push you to act quickly, it’s likely a scam.
Q2: Can I stop all these calls from coming in?
You can reduce the number of calls by signing up for the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). You can also block numbers on your phone or use call-blocking apps.
Q3: What should I do if I get a scam call about an accident?
If you think the call is a scam, hang up, block the number, and report it to ICO or Action Fraud.
Q4: What’s the best way to avoid these calls?
Sign up for TPS to block unwanted calls. Be careful about where you enter your personal information online, and consider using call-blocking apps or services.
Conclusion
Accident claims phone calls can sometimes be helpful, but they can also be scams. By following these tips, you can protect yourself. Always ask for details about the company, don’t share personal information too quickly, and report suspicious calls. By staying aware and cautious, you can handle these calls safely and avoid scams.
