Cornelius Garrison of New Orleans was active in a “crash-for-cash” scheme in 2020. He staged fake car accidents, funneling passengers from choreographed wrecks to billboard attorney Vanessa Motta’s law firm. The U.S. Department of Justice indicted 63 people—including the law firm and Garrison—for interstate fraud and fraudulent lawsuits. Garrison was later murdered.

In Spring 2025, the U.S. Attorney General, along with key members of Congress, created a Federal Task Force. Their mission: investigate, prosecute, and push legislation to shut down these crime rings. The initial focus is on major urban areas including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas.

Particularly targeted are corporate big rigs and Uber vehicles, both of which carry large insurance policies. Liability insurance costs have surged—Uber reports that in Los Angeles, one-third of rider fees now go toward liability coverage, with costs for big rigs increasing 50% in the past three years.

A new law—the Staged Accident Fraud Prevention Act (SAFPA)—is working its way through Congress. If passed, it will federalize fake accident claims and override state laws.

PI guru Gary Lewkovich makes practicing PI simple. He lays out 12 rules for showing you’re a top-notch doctor—one who knows the case, can prove injuries, and demonstrate reasonable care.

Remember: once you testify, there’s a permanent record that future defense attorneys and adjusters can review.

A few of Lewkovich’s 12 Rules:

• No one is perfect. But you are expected to be realistic, honest, and authentic.
• Do not volunteer information that wasn’t asked.
• Anticipate the weak areas of the case and prepare with your attorney.
• Review and update your CV for errors.

For your free copy of this essential tool, email John Tawlian.