What is a common characteristic of staged auto accidents?

A common characteristic of staged auto accidents is the involvement of multiple vehicles. This is often done to create a more complex scenario that may confuse witnesses and insurance companies, making it seem like a legitimate accident rather than a fraudulent act. By including several vehicles, perpetrators can inflate claims and make it appear more credible, as they can present multiple parties with perceived injuries or damages.

The other options, while they may occur in different contexts, do not necessarily define staged auto accidents. For instance, while some staged accidents may occur in high traffic areas to maximize visibility and confuse the situation, it's not a defining trait. Similarly, staged accidents can also involve single vehicle collisions, especially in cases where one person causes an accident with the intent of claiming damages. Lastly, while they may involve minimal injuries, it’s not a universal feature, as perpetrators sometimes fake more serious injuries to boost their claims further. Thus, the key characteristic remains the involvement of multiple vehicles to create a complex and believable situation.