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More from NICB about Insurance Scams    Similarly, if you ever need a tow truck and one miraculously appears without being summoned, then be very careful before signing any documents or allowing the tow operator to take your vehicle. Certainly, there are honest and reputable tow operators who may happen upon an incident and offer their services for a reasonable fee—they’re not the problem. Still, as a precaution, be wary and follow NICB’s tips for such an encounter. The tips can be downloaded here: https://www.nicb.org/theft_and_fraud_awareness/checklists.    In auto accident solicitations, the innocent people involved in the accident often receive a phone call from a representative of the attorney or medical provider encouraging them to seek representation or treatment to get the care and money they deserve. In some instances, the caller may falsely represent themselves as being from the person’s insurance company. In other situations the innocent people involved in the accident can even be approached at the scene.    Not everyone who makes unsolicited contacts with homeowners or people involved in an auto accident is looking to rip you off. But it is an unfortunate sign of the times that when we find examples of repair or auto accident solicitation scams, they began with an unsolicited visit or contact.    The best time to ask questions about your coverage is before you buy it. Make sure you understand how your policies will perform in the event you need to submit a claim.    When considering home repairs, NICB recommends that consumers consider these tips before hiring a contractor: Contact your insurance company first Get more than one estimate Get everything in writing. Cost, work to be done, time schedules, guarantees, payment schedules and other expectations should be detailed Demand references and check them out Ask to see the salesperson’s driver’s license and write down the license number and their vehicle’s license plate number Never sign a contract with blanks; unacceptable terms can be added later Never pay a contractor in full or sign a completion certificate until the work is finished and ensure reconstruction is up to current code Make sure you review and understand all documents sent to your insurance carrier Never let a contractor pressure you into hiring them Never let a contractor interpret the insurance policy language Never let a contractor discourage you from contacting your insurance company    When involved in an auto accident, NICB recommends working with your insurance company and if you do need legal representation or medical care, don’t select an attorney or medical provider based on the advice of a person unknown to you.    Anyone with information concerning vehicle theft and insurance fraud can report it anonymously by calling toll-free 1-800-TEL-NICB (1-800-835-6422), texting keyword “fraud” to TIP411 (847411) or by visiting our web site at www.nicb.org