What is the main reason a motor insurer will often ask an insured for details of past accidents when handling a new claim?

The main reason a motor insurer asks for details of past accidents when handling a new claim is to ensure that the information provided on the claim form is consistent with what has been previously disclosed on the proposal form. This consistency is critical because discrepancies can indicate potential inaccuracies or fraud. Insurers rely on accurate and truthful disclosure to assess risk accurately and determine the validity of a claim. When a policyholder completes a proposal form, they must provide a complete record of their driving history, including any past accidents. By cross-referencing this information with the current claim, the insurer can uphold the integrity of the underwriting process and maintain proper risk assessment for future coverage.

Factors such as eligibility for a lower premium or the calculation of the likelihood of future claims are generally related to underwriting rather than the immediate handling of claims. While brand assessment of the insured's driving record is important, the primary focus in this context is to confirm consistency between documents.