asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has noted a recent proposal by companies providing motor insurance cover to introduce special forms for completion at the scene of an accident; and, if so, if he will make a statement on the proposal.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Insurance Companies Proposal.
19.
What is involved here is the introduction to Ireland of the European Accident Statement by the Irish motor insurers. The statement is a motor accident report form which is completed at the scene of the accident by the parties involved. Completion of the form is voluntary.
The statement which is in use in 11 European countries has distinct advantages for drivers in that standard insurance questions are listed and for insurance companies, acurate information is confirmed at the scene of the accident.
I understand that Irish motor insurance companies have begun circulating copies of the statement to new policy holders and will enclose copies of the statement with renewal notices over the next 12 months. Copies of the statement will be sent by the companies to policy holders on request.
I have certainly taken note of this development in the motor insurance market and have already publicly welcomed it as an initiative to speed up the settlement of motor accident claims and to help contain the increasing cost of settling these claims.