NICB Warns of Flood Cars

By Staff Writer September 29, 2019

In the wake of Hurricane Dorian and Tropical Storm Imelda thousands of damaged and flooded vehicles are emerging, presenting the potential for fraudsters to prey on used-car buyers and dealers. In Southeast Texas alone, more than 17,000 vehicle flood claims have been reported, according to the Insurance Council of Texas.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) offers a free tool called VINCheck that allows consumers to check a vehicle for “red flags”.

“This tool is designed to help (buyers) determine if a car has been reported as stolen, but not recovered, or has been reported as a salvage or total loss vehicle by working with cooperating NICB member insurance companies,” said Brooke Kelley, vice president of communications for NICB.

“Following any major hurricane or storm we unfortunately see fraudsters try and scam consumers by selling cars that have been impacted by flooding, and this tool is a clear and easy way to protect consumers and one of the most utilized resources on our website.”

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Last modified on Saturday, 05 October 2019 16:28