Sorry to send another eBlast so soon, but this is important and timely.
Be Aware – It’s Happening in Here in Mar Vista
I’ve read of this scam many times over the years, and several neighbors have recently experienced this scam. Fortunately, none of them fell for it. Don’t you fall for it either! LAPD advises the following:
***SCAM ALERT***
We have received recent reports in the area of a local scam being perpetrated. The targets are usually the elderly. Scammers will follow or chase a vehicle down and try to get their attention. They will ask to pull over because they believe you hit them or side swiped them. They will then try to settle for cash right there at scene. Tips: -If you are in an accident, it is the law that you must pull over and exchange information. Exchange information, **TAKE PICTURES** of all the information especially their Drivers License, License Plate, and vehicle make/model, and damage. -Do not settle for cash!!!! Go through your insurance company, you pay for it, make them do the work for you! Call them and report it, if there is anything suspicious, such as you do not believe you were in an accident, let them know and submit your photographs.
NOTE: I’ve also heard of young drivers who may also be perceived as naive, getting pulled over.
Here’s the post on NextDoor, where several people comment that it’s happened to them.
One more tip – If this is happening to you and you’re afraid, drive to the nearest police station. If it’s valid, they’ll follow you. If they’re scammers, they’ll hightail it outta there!
