Abbotsford Police are warning drivers to be on the lookout for a cyclist believed to be faking collisions with cars in order to bilk them of cash.

Const. Ian MacDonald said police are concerned after attending three alleged collisions involving the same man who says he's been hit by a car.

"But the drivers dispute it, and one actually claims the individual laid his bike in front of the car," said MacDonald.

Typically after an incident of some sort occurs, the suspect suggests the drivers - who all seem to be older women - pay him cash on the spot to avoid having to deal with ICBC.

What's more, the same individual has another nine outstanding claims with ICBC, all of which involve the suspect being hit by a vehicle while on his bike.

All 12 alleged incidents have occurred inside an 18-month period, with the last taking place April 3, said MacDonald.

"From a mathematical standpoint it's impossible [it's legitimate]," he said.

"What's concerning is the actual number of incidents could be many more than what is documented."

The APD is advising that drivers involved in an apparent collision with a cyclist should call police.

"If a person on a bike is alleging they've been struck, they need to be checked out by an ambulance," said MacDonald.

"This guy's prepared to leave the area with cash in hand and is not thrilled when the suggestion of calling police is raised."

Any incidents between a bike and vehicle should also be reported to ICBC immediately by drivers to prevent any bogus follow up claims, he said.

The man involved in the suspect collisions is described as a Caucasian male with a full beard, five feet 11 inches in height and weighing 220 pounds.

RBaker@abbotsfordtimes.com

http://twitter.com/RochelleBaker1

http://twitter.com/abbytimes