What is the primary purpose of an accidental death benefit rider in a life insurance policy?

The primary purpose of an accidental death benefit rider in a life insurance policy is to provide additional coverage specifically for deaths that occur as a result of an accident. This rider acts as an enhancement to the standard life insurance policy, offering beneficiaries a higher payout in the event that the insured passes away due to accidental causes.

This additional coverage is particularly advantageous because it underscores the severity and unique nature of accidental deaths, which, while not the most common cause of death, often entail severe and sudden impacts on the insured's family financially. The benefits from this rider can relieve additional financial burdens that may arise unexpectedly.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of this rider. Increasing the policy cash value pertains to permanent policies, waiving premiums due to disability is a separate feature often found in disability riders, and covering funeral expenses generally falls under the purview of the base life insurance benefit rather than an accidental death policy feature.