Something is growing at an alarming rate in Georgia and we're not referring to the peaches and peanuts. The incidence of insurance fraud has been climbing steadily in recent years. In fact, the number of questionable claims (QCs) in the state has grown from about 2,100 claims in 2007 to more than 2,700 in 2009.

In response to the trend, insurers and state authorities are launching what some call "an ambitious" effort to crack down on fraud. Incoming Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens, who assumes office this month, told members of the press that he intends to ramp up the department's fraud unit and hire a former prosecutor to help build criminal cases against fraudsters.

The Georgia chapter of the International Association of Special Investigation Units (IASIU) and the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) both announced a initiative to encourage residents to turn in people who stage fake car accidents or file other false claims. Part of the campaign entails installing ten billboards across the state. A toll-free number and the verbiage, "Insurance Fraud Costs Everyone," will appear on each billboard to encourage residents to dial in with tips regarding potential fraud.