Overwhelming support from drivers for fraud cutting DVLA scheme

Research by AA insurance shows that drivers are overwhelmingly supportive of moves to give insurers acccess to DVLA data as a method of cutting fraudulent insurance applications.

According to the AA/Populus study of 17,883 AA members, an overwhelming 92% of respondents supported the move “if it cuts down fraud”, with 72% strongly agreeing. 

At the recent ABI motor conference, the secretary of state for transport Patrick McLoughlin MP confirmed that from 2014, motor insurers will be able to access driver details to confirm basic information about their customers against the DVLA database.

McLoughlin said the move would cut out fraudulent car insurance applications by cross-referencing driver data, saving up to £100 per policy.

AA Insurance director Simon Douglas said: “This shows that drivers are fed up with a fraudulent minority trying to get cheaper insurance by telling lies at their expense.”

“We know that an astounding quarter of motorists wrongly declare their driving history to insurers, either not declaring convictions or disqualifications, or declaring something less significant.

“Many more provide other false information such as age, driving experience or even address in order to obtain a cheaper insurance premium. This is unfair to safer, honest motorists.”

“It’s hard to think of a change to the insurance process that has been given such resounding support from the public,” Douglass added.

Key findings from the research: