17 Common Road Scams To Be Aware Of
Last summer, my cross-country road trip took an unexpected turn when a stranger frantically waved me down, claiming my tire was smoking.
Turns out, my tires were perfectly fine—but my wallet nearly wasn’t! Road scams happen everywhere, targeting unsuspecting travelers with clever tricks that can cost you money, time, and peace of mind.
Being able to spot these cons before they happen can save you from becoming another statistic on the highway hustle.
1. The Fake Accident Setup
Scammers deliberately cause minor fender benders, then exaggerate injuries or vehicle damage. They’ll often have accomplices pose as witnesses or even fake medical professionals to back up their claims.
Always call police to document any accident, no matter how minor. Take photos of everything and avoid agreeing to cash settlements on the spot. Some crafty con artists even carry pre-damaged car parts to swap out after a collision!
2. The Good Samaritan Tire Scam
Picture this: someone flags you down claiming your tire looks dangerously low. Once you pull over, they offer to help—then either damage your perfectly good tire or charge outrageous fees for unnecessary repairs.
Trust your vehicle’s warning systems over strangers’ warnings. If someone points out a problem, thank them politely but drive to a reputable service station for verification.
3. Windshield Repair Ruse
Smooth-talking scammers approach in parking lots claiming they noticed a crack in your windshield. They offer immediate repairs at “discount prices” using substandard materials that often make things worse.
Legitimate glass repair companies don’t solicit business in parking lots. Some fraudsters even create damage themselves when you’re not looking! Always verify with your insurance first—many policies cover windshield repairs with zero deductible.
4. The White Van Speaker Hustle
Approached by friendly guys in a van offering “professional” audio equipment at unbelievable prices? Run! They’ll claim these are extra inventory from a big installation job or “fell off a truck.”
The speakers look impressive with fancy packaging and brand names that closely mimic premium manufacturers.
Reality check: they’re worthless knockoffs worth a fraction of what you’ll pay. The scammers create artificial urgency, claiming they need to unload them immediately.
5. Fake Police Officers
Heart-stopping moment: flashing lights behind you, and someone in what looks like a police uniform approaches. Except they’re not real cops—they’re after your wallet or worse.
Genuine officers won’t object if you verify their identity. You can request identification, call dispatch to confirm the stop is legitimate, or drive slowly to a well-lit public area. Real police cars have official license plates and multiple lights, not just a single dashboard flasher.
6. The Flashing Headlight Trap
An oncoming car flashes its headlights repeatedly—seems like they’re warning you about something ahead, right? Nope! After you slow down or pull over, gang members swoop in to rob or carjack you.
This trick works because it plays on our helpful nature. If someone flashes lights at you, maintain speed and stay alert. Never pull over in isolated areas. Some variations include motioning that something’s wrong with your vehicle to get you to stop.
7. The Gas Station Distraction
While pumping gas, someone approaches asking for directions or change. Meanwhile, their accomplice slips into your car, grabbing purses, phones, or anything valuable within reach.
Never leave your car unlocked while refueling. Keep valuables out of sight and be wary of strangers who approach with questions that seem designed to turn you away from your vehicle. Modern thieves can empty a car in seconds while you’re distracted by a seemingly innocent conversation.
8. The Roadside Breakdown Scheme
Heartstrings get tugged when you see a stranded motorist—especially someone elderly, a woman alone, or someone with children. But sometimes it’s all an act to lure compassionate drivers into a robbery setup.
Instead of stopping directly, call highway patrol to report the breakdown. If you must help, stay in your locked car with windows barely cracked and engine running. Some legitimate motorists understand these precautions in today’s world and won’t be offended.
9. The Phony Parking Attendant
Sporting a vest and confident demeanor, these scammers direct you to “available” parking spots and collect fees—except they don’t actually work there! By the time you return, they’re long gone with your cash.
Legitimate parking facilities have payment machines, booths, or clearly marked official attendants. Look for posted rate signs and official receipts.
Some brazen fraudsters even set up fake parking lots on vacant land near major events, collecting fees for parking that will likely result in your vehicle being towed!
10. The Dropped Money Trick
Money on the ground catches anyone’s attention! The scammer “accidentally” drops cash near you, then claims you’ve picked up their money when you bend to help. An argument ensues while their partner lifts your wallet.
Keep your distance from strangers creating commotion in public places. If someone drops something near you, step back rather than immediately helping. Thieves rely on your good manners and social conditioning to create opportunities for theft.
11. The Forced Accident Ploy
Cunning crooks deliberately position their vehicle so you’ll hit them—like cutting you off and brake-checking or waving you forward then accelerating. Their goal? Insurance fraud or cash settlements.
Dash cams are your best defense against these schemes. Without video evidence, it’s your word against theirs. Keep a safe following distance and be wary of cars behaving erratically.
12. The Tourist Menu Swindle
Pulled over for a quick roadside meal? Watch out for those special “tourist menus” with inflated prices! Unscrupulous restaurants near highways often have two different price lists—one for locals and another for out-of-towners.
Always check if prices are clearly displayed before ordering. If the bill seems suspiciously high, politely ask to see a regular menu. Some places even add phantom items or mysterious “service charges” that weren’t mentioned when you ordered.
13. The Rental Car Damage Extortion
Returning your rental car should be simple, but some shady operators claim you caused damage that was already there. Without proof of the car’s prior condition, you’re stuck paying inflated repair costs.
Always thoroughly document any existing damage with photos or video before driving off the lot. Include date stamps if possible. Make sure the rental agent notes every scratch and dent on your paperwork, no matter how minor.
14. The Rigged Gas Pump Trick
Ever filled your tank only to run out of gas suspiciously quickly? Some dishonest station owners tamper with pumps to dispense less fuel than you pay for—a scam that’s hard to detect in the moment.
Look for inspection stickers on pumps and check that the meter starts at zero. Pay attention to your vehicle’s fuel gauge and mileage between fill-ups. If something seems off, report the station to your state’s weights and measures department.
15. The Toll Booth Impersonator
Fake toll collectors set up convincing-looking booths on less-traveled roads, complete with barriers and official-looking uniforms. They pocket every cent while drivers believe they’ve paid legitimate road fees.
Research toll roads before traveling in unfamiliar areas. Most legitimate tolls accept credit cards or electronic payments and provide receipts. Be suspicious of cash-only toll booths, especially on secondary roads.
16. The Hotel Front Desk Call
Ring, ring! “This is the front desk—we need to verify your credit card information.” Except it’s not the hotel staff calling—it’s scammers hoping you’re too tired from traveling to question them.
Hotels never call rooms requesting payment information they already have. If you receive such a call, hang up and visit the front desk in person. Scammers count on road-weary travelers being less alert and more trusting after a long day behind the wheel.
17. The Border Crossing “Fee”
Approaching state or international borders? Watch for unofficial “checkpoints” where uniformed scammers demand special crossing fees or documentation charges that don’t actually exist.
Legitimate border officials have proper identification and never request cash payments on the spot. Research border crossing procedures beforehand so you know what to expect.
Some scammers target foreign travelers specifically, counting on confusion about local laws to extract money.