January 3, 2025 | Miles Brucker

Common Road Scams To Watch Out For—And How To Avoid Them


Be Alert, Travel Smart

It's not just potholes you need to dodge these days. Roadside scammers have an eye for turning quick stops into long regrets. So, while traveling, being street-smart can go a long way.

Annoyed Driver

Fake Accident Insurance Fraud

A driver suddenly slams on the brakes, and before you know it, you're in a fender bender. However, this might not be an accident. These schemers aim to pin the blame on you and cash in on inflated insurance claims. Some even work with fake witnesses to strengthen their case.

Fake AccidentHow to Pivot Your Foot between the Brake and Accelerator by Ashley Neal

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Phony Emergency Stop Requests

Someone's frantically waving at you from the roadside, pointing at your car like it's on fire, and your instincts tell you to pull over. Here's the catch: your car is perfectly fine. Tricksters often use this trick to get drivers to stop, then either rob them or sell overpriced services. 

Phony EmergencyJESHOOTS.com, Pexels

False Ticket Payments

Returning to your car, you find a ticket on the windshield with payment instructions directing you to a suspicious link or phone number. They are crooks who count on people to pay quickly without questioning the ticket's legitimacy. Confirm tickets through official channels before opening the link.

False TicketErik Mclean, Pexels

Dummy Cops

Flashing lights in your rearview mirror doesn't always mean law enforcement. Some con artists dress like police officers, complete with badges and fake patrol cars, to intimidate drivers into paying bogus fines. These imposters prey on fear and confusion, targeting out-of-town travelers.

 Dummy CopsKindel Media, Pexels

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Shady Tow Truck Services

Imagine breaking down on the highway and a tow truck conveniently shows up minutes later. Seems helpful, right? Not always. These can be tow truck operators who exploit stranded drivers by towing them to overpriced repair shops or demanding sky-high fees for their "help".

Tow TruckRuben de Rijcke, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Overpriced Roadside Snack Vendors

A roadside snack stall can be a lifesaver on a long trip, but some vendors see travelers as easy targets. Prices for simple snacks or bottled water can suddenly skyrocket, especially in remote areas. They count on you not wanting to haggle.

Roadside SnackEsmihel Muhammed, Pexels

Credit Card Skimming

Gas stations are prime spots for thieves to install card-skimming devices on payment terminals. The sneaky gadgets steal your card details while you think you're just refueling. So, look closely before swiping. Loose or tampered card readers are red flags. 

Credit CardKaboompics.com, Pexels

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Fake Road Construction Collectors

Road construction zones can feel chaotic, and people can take full advantage. They'll pose as workers collecting "fees" to let you pass or to speed up your wait time. Legitimate road crews never handle cash on the spot. If someone asks for payment, refuse and report the incident.

Road ConstructionTranmautritam, Pexels

Distraction Thefts At Rest Stops

At rest stops, a simple distraction can cost you dearly. A stranger might spill something near you or strike up an overly friendly chat while their accomplice swipes your belongings. These thieves thrive on chaos and split-second opportunities. Keep your valuables close and stay mindful of your surroundings.

DistractionsRDNE Stock project, Pexels

Bogus Vehicle Breakdown Helpers

If you see a stranded driver waving you down for assistance, what would you do? While it may seem noble to help, some of these "stranded" individuals are setting you up for theft or worse. In this case, offer to call for help instead of pulling over yourself.

Vehicle BreakdownTayssir Kadamany, Pexels

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Gas Pump Tampering 

Gas stations are another risky spot. Have you ever felt that a pump fuel price climbed too quickly? Tampered pumps can overcharge you by dispensing less gas than displayed. Stick to well-lit, busy stations with regular inspections, and check for signs of tampering.

Gas Pump TamperingEngin Akyurt, Pexels

Unsolicited Car Wash Offers

You pull into a rest area, and someone insists your windshield is filthy. Before you can say no, they're scrubbing away and demanding payment. Such impromptu "car washes" often come with steep fees. A firm "No, thanks" and keeping your doors locked is your best defense.

Car WashKaboompics.com, Pexels

Rigged Scenic Parking 

Driving through a stunning spot, a person waves you into what looks like a makeshift parking lot. They charge you a "small fee," and you think it's legit—until you return to find your car towed or ticketed. Stick to official parking areas and verify signs before handing over cash.

Scenic ParkingErik Mclean, Pexels

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Tailgating Theft Setup

Some people aggressively tailgate other drivers, forcing them to pull over. While the driver stops and confronts the aggressive one, their accomplice may steal items or tamper with your vehicle. If you feel unsafe, drive to a populated, well-lit area instead of stopping immediately.

TailgatingSamuel Peter, Pexels

Duplicate Toll Collection Booths

If you see a standard toll booth, don't hand over your cash instantly. They might not be official. People can set up fake booths on less-traveled routes. Electronic toll passes or staying on major highways can help you avoid these setups entirely.

Toll CollectionOtto Yamamoto, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Unethical Mechanic Repair Shops

The nearest shop can feel like a godsend when your car's sputtering. But some repair shops have mastered the art of overcharging stranded drivers by adding fake problems to your bill. Research reputable repair services before your trip and check reviews if you're in a bind.

Mechanic Repair Malte Luk, Pexels

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Unauthorized Tire Repairs

Flat tires can feel like an emergency, and some roadside helpers make it worse. They "fix" the problem by claiming it needs a tire change rather than a patch job. So, carry a spare tire and basic tools, or call a trusted service to avoid unnecessary tire changes.

 Tire RepairsRon Lach, Pexels

Forced Charity Contributions

Have you seen those people at the lights who knock on your window with a clipboard and a smile? They claim to represent a cause, but their high-pressure tactics and refusal to leave say otherwise. Real charities don't work this way. Politely decline, and if they persist, just drive away.

Forced CharityTimur Weber, Pexels

Fake Engine Trouble Setup

A strange sound is coming from your car after a pit stop. What could it be, you wonder. Shady mechanics sometimes tamper with parked vehicles, creating problems they offer to "fix" for a fee. A quick pre-trip inspection and avoiding secluded stops can keep you out of their crosshairs.

Fake Engine TroubleSergey Meshkov, Pexels

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Overpriced Local Taxi Meters

When you're exploring a new city, hopping into a taxi might be convenient. However, certain drivers manipulate meters or quote very high rates for tourists. Agree on a price beforehand or use ride-hailing apps with transparent pricing to avoid getting ripped off.

Taxi MetersJosh Baumgartner, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Fraudulent Shortcut Directions

Always rely on GPS navigation or verified maps, and be wary of unsolicited guidance from strangers. They say they know a "quicker route" to your destination, but if you blindly follow, these directions can lead you into a shady detour or even a dead-end robbery trap. 

GPSMike Bird, Pexels

Organized Pickpocketing At Stops

Before you step out of your vehicle, always keep valuables secured. Avoid leaving items visible in your vehicle because some rest stops are hotbeds for skilled pickpocket teams. While you're distracted by a vendor or restroom, someone else could be rifling through your car or bag. 

Secure ItemsJens Mahnke, Pexels

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Prearranged Fender Bender 

It starts with a slight bump to your car—harmless, right? Not for tricksters who stage these crashes. They'll demand immediate cash for damages or file a false insurance claim. Document everything when this happens: photos, videos, and police reports can keep their lies from costing you.

InsuranceVlad Deep, Pexels

Unlicensed Tour Guides

Charming "local guides" offer to show hidden gems. However, by the end of the trip, they can hit you with outrageous fees. Or worse, you're led into a setup. That's why verified guides or online recommendations are better—planned, enjoyable, and safer.

Tour GuideRaphael Loquellano, Pexels

Parking Spot Reservation Tricks

You must look for official signs or parking apps that direct you to legitimate spaces. In busy areas, people might claim to "reserve" a parking spot, charging you a fee for what's actually public parking. They're gone long before you realize the scam. 

Parking Spot ReservationXnatedawgx, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Overcharging Shuttle Services

Confirm shuttle services through your hotel or airport and avoid unofficial vehicles offering "special deals" on the spot. Airport or hotel shuttles often seem convenient, but con artists may pose as official drivers and charge exorbitant fees once you're already en route.

Shuttle ServicesLiamdavies, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Fake Traffic Violation Demands

A supposed "traffic officer" stops you, claiming you've violated a local law and demanding immediate payment. Genuine officers won't take cash fines on the roadside. Request proper identification or a written ticket, and never hand over money without verifying their credentials.

Traffic OfficerPeter Griffin, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

Counterfeit Gas Coupons 

At gas stations, you might find a person offering a "discount" coupon for cash upfront. Instead of buying, stick to established fuel rewards programs or trusted promotions. Otherwise, you'd be dealing with fake coupons. These sellers make money by tricking you into thinking that you'll save some.

CouponsProjectManhattan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Phony Currency Exchange Deals

In unfamiliar areas, unofficial currency exchange booths might offer tempting rates to travelers. But it's possible that you could end up with counterfeit bills or missing cash. Use verified exchange counters or bank ATMs to ensure your money remains safe and legitimate.

ATMRoberto Hund, Pexels

Rigged Coin Toss Parking Spots

What if you approach a parking lot and another person proposes a coin toss to decide who gets it? It sounds fun until they rig the toss and guilt you into giving up cash for the space. No parking space is worth falling for this petty hustle.

Coin TossCocaKolaLips, Pexels

Suspicious Spill Cleanup Charges

You pull over, and suddenly, someone points out a mysterious spill under your car. They insist it needs immediate cleaning (for a fee, of course). Check your car yourself before agreeing to anything, and politely decline their "help" unless you're sure it's genuine.

Checking CarKevin Bidwell, Pexels

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GPS Signal Jamming Devices

What to do when GPS suddenly goes haywire, leaving you lost in unfamiliar territory? Rely on offline maps by keeping them as a backup. Crooks use signal jammers to confuse drivers and steer them toward their traps. Don't drive cluelessly if your GPS fails during a ride.

Offline MapDziana Hasanbekava, Pexels

Staged Roadside Pet Rescues

Who can resist helping a scared puppy on the roadside? Many people can't. Sadly, the robbers use this heartstring-tugging tactic to lure you out of your car, only to snatch your belongings. If something feels off, report it to animal control instead of coming out of your car.

Pet RescuesEmre Ateşoğlu, Pexels

Photo Selling Schemes

There are people at scenic spots that just snap your picture and offer a printout, however, at an outrageous price. Worse, they may refuse to delete the photo if you don't pay. It's time to either decline and drive away or report such incidents.

Photo SellingAndrea Piacquadio, Pexels

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Highway Restroom Entry Fees

At a quick pit stop, someone at the restroom door demands a fee. Is it legitimate? No, because pit stop restrooms don't charge surprise fees, especially on highways. Head to an official service area or inquire at nearby shops to avoid paying these bogus charges.

Highway Restroom사랑, Wikimedia Commons

Shady Street Performers Near Cars

Street performers can be entertaining, but some use their act to distract you while their accomplices pilfer your belongings. If performers get unusually close to your car or seem overly pushy, just keep your doors locked, watch, and move on.

Street PerformersJimmy Liao, Pexels

Fraudulent Engine Oil Changes

Stopping for an oil top-up? Beware of shady mechanics who may claim you need an urgent oil change. They might use scare tactics to charge exorbitant rates. Think it over, and then pick a trusted service center. Keep up with your car's maintenance schedule to avoid being tricked.

Oil ChangeDaniel Andraski, Pexels

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Misdirection For Organized Theft

Ever had someone drop something at your feet or ask for directions just as you're loading your car? That's not always coincidence—it's also a distraction tactic. Stay aware of your surroundings, and never let strangers pull your focus away from your belongings.

BelongingsKaboompics.com, Pexels

Overpriced Battery Jumpstart Services

A dead car battery can feel like the worst luck—until someone offers help at a price that could buy a new battery altogether. People like to exploit travelers who are stuck. That's why you must invest in a reliable portable jumper kit to ensure you're never at their mercy.

Battery JumpstartJulia Avamotive, Pexels

Unnecessary Roadside Safety Gear Sales

Familiarize yourself with traffic laws before your trip. Certain people try to stop drivers to convey that their car isn't "compliant" with safety rules—like missing cones or reflective vests. Scammers make these items sound legally mandatory and charge outrageous prices. 

Safety Gear SalesMathias Reding, Pexels

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Overpriced Scenic Route Access

While you soak up the countryside, a self-proclaimed guide says, "Hi". Then, they promise a breathtaking route by demanding a steep "entry fee". This trick banks on your love for adventure. Public maps and park guidelines can steer you clear of such people.

Scenic Route Access Kaboompics.com, Pexels

Parking Lot "Damage" Setup

After parking, someone accuses you of damaging their car, complete with fake, pre-existing damage, and even a witness. They demand on-the-spot cash to "avoid insurance trouble". Document the scene with photos and involve the authorities instead of handing over money.

 Damage SetupUiliam Nörnberg, Pexels

Bulk Discount Offers

Some roadside sellers offer products at a "bulk discount," only to slip in broken or worthless items mixed with the good ones. You might end up paying for junk you didn't need. Before buying anything, inspect items closely and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

DiscountKaboompics.com, Pexels

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Fake Rental Car Damage

Vehicle rental companies may exploit travelers who skip inspecting or photographing the vehicle before renting. People return the vehicle after a smooth trip but hear that it has "mystery damage," and they need to pay. But a quick pre- and post-rental photo session can save you.

Rental CarOfravim, Pixabay


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