Accident history covers collisions that were reported to an insurer, to the police, or to a repair network that shares data. Severity is usually described in broad categories rather than in detail.
The significant limitation is that only reported accidents appear. A driver who pays for repairs rather than claiming, precisely to protect a no-claims discount, leaves no record at all. Minor damage repaired privately is effectively invisible.
Absence of accident history is therefore weak evidence. Presence of it is strong evidence, and worth taking seriously.
Why it matters
Structural repair affects safety and value permanently. Cosmetic repair usually does not. The records rarely distinguish, so an inspection is what closes the gap.
How to check it
Look for panel gaps that differ side to side, paint that does not match under daylight, overspray on rubber seals, and replacement fasteners with disturbed paint.
Does this apply to the car you are looking at?
Run the VIN or plate and see what is actually on record.
Related terms
Definitions are general guidance, not legal advice. Title rules, total loss thresholds and inspection requirements are set by each state and change over time, so confirm the position with the motor vehicle agency for the state the vehicle is titled in before relying on it.