A message from the SNT regarding Crash for Cash

Please see the below information following an increase in community concern regarding reports of ‘Crash for Cash’ incidents along the A41 and A518 near Newport in Shropshire.

Some people have asked us if we can consider installing CCTV cameras along these routes. West Mercia Police do not operate CCTV cameras, but consideration has been made to requesting Telford & Wrekin Council install cameras. The challenge with this would be the size of the area that is reportedly affected. Telford & Wrekin Council would not have enough CCTV cameras to cover every roundabout on the A41 and A518 near to Newport. Each roundabout would also likely need several cameras to effectively cover the whole roundabout.

We have also been asked about signs warning drivers. Again, West Mercia Police are not responsible for the signage on our highways, this would also fall to Telford & Wrekin Council. It is very unlikely that signage warning drivers could be placed as all signs placed on the highway, particular ones such as the A41 and A518, must meet government guidance. There are currently no signs that meets this criteria.

Whilst I understand that this issue is being discussed on a variety of social media platforms, this is not way to report incidents to police. If you have information that relates to ‘Crash for Cash’ then please report these on our website here:

Report a crime | West Mercia Police

You can also upload dash cam footage to our Operation Snap portal here:

Operation Snap | West Mercia Police

It should also be noted that if an insurance claim is made following a collision, the relevant insurance company themselves must also pay due diligence to that claim, especially if the other party has made representation that it is a fraudulent claim. .

It is important to recognise that we are all responsible for our own actions while driving and that we ensure that we maintain a suitable speed and distance from the vehicle in front. The second thing you can do is consider investing in a dash-cam. There is some information to suggest that those involved in ‘Crash for Cash’ collisions avoid targeting vehicles with dashcams fitted.

 Avoid accusations.

 Swap insurance details.

 Call for support.

 Count the passengers.

 Collect essential information. Take a note of the registration number, road markings, and condition of the other vehicle (cars frequently used for scams have existing rear damage). Note if there is any CCTV in the surrounding area. And ask any independent witnesses for their details too.

What should you do if you're victim of a ‘Crash for Cash’? |

The most effective way for the police to target drivers involved in this type of offence is through targeted enforcement, by regular and sustained patrols on these routes. I hope this message reassures you that we are taking these reports seriously and are working hard to address your concerns and help keep our community safe.

It is only by the community and the police working together that we can fully address these concerns. If you are aware of any information that can assist us, then please report this to us in the manner outlined in this message.

Rich Edward.

PC 3988 Edward

Newport Safer Neighbourhood Officer