How Fast Reporting Can Reduce the Cost of Fleet Claims

Accidents happen. Whether it’s a minor bump on the road, or something more serious, the way you handle the aftermath can have a huge impact on your business. One of the most important things you can do is to report any claim within 24 hours. If a driver delays, that delay can lead to bigger headaches, a larger claims bill and higher risks in the future for your fleet. According to fleet insurer, Flock, reporting an accident early could cut claims by up to 40%, so let’s take a look at how speed is of the essence when it comes to reporting an accident.

Why speed matters – the cost of delayed reporting

Think of an accident like a small leak. If you fix it quickly, it’s a minor issue. If you ignore it, you could find yourself in knee-deep water! Here’s how not reporting an accident within 24 hours can cause your business and fleet unnecessary cost and stress:

• Increased claim costs:

The longer you wait, the more a claim can spiral. Damage assessments, medical costs and even third-party claims can escalate if not handled promptly. If you report early, an insurer can step in, assess the costs involved and control the risk of third-party liabilities. Research by Flock reveals that third-party repair and hire costs cost on average £4000 more per claim, when an accident is not reported early.

• Higher insurance premiums:

Insurance companies track your claims history. Late reporting can be seen as poor risk management, leading to higher renewal costs. If you consistently report early, your business will be rewarded with a strong claims experience and, therefore, more affordable insurance going forward.

• Disputes and false claims:

The longer a delay, the harder it is to prove what really happened in an accident. Witnesses forget details, CCTV footage gets erased and third parties might exaggerate their claims. If things drag on, it gets harder to defend the claim.  

Reasons for delayed reporting

Why might a driver delay in reporting an accident?

  Drivers might delay telling a fleet manager, believing an accident to be insignificant, or not worth the trouble. And drivers might be put off by the cumbersome and lengthy process of a claim, involving a slow exchange of emails or no clear instructions on what to do and when. According to Flock, the average time to report a claim by email is 18 days – certainly not advantageous!  

What details should be reported?

When a driver reports an accident, accuracy and detail are everything. The more precise the report, the easier and quicker the claim is processed. Here’s what should be included:

• Location, date and time: where did it happen? When?
• Photos and videos: damage, road signs, other vehicles – visual proof is key.
• Witness details: names, numbers and statements from anyone who saw what happened.
• Vehicle and driver info: both your fleet vehicle and any third-party vehicles involved.
• A clear account of events: what happened, in your driver’s own words.

 

Fast reporting should be part of fleet culture

In the chaos of an accident, drivers don’t always think about paperwork first, but if your business takes steps to make fast reporting part of its company culture, it could reap huge benefits. If you want to keep premiums low and to make claims faster and less stress-free, then training your drivers to make quick reporting second nature, and embedding swift reporting processes, is the key.  

Ascend’s tool to help you report FAST

Accidents are stressful, but reporting them quickly makes all the difference. Delays lead to higher costs, disputed claims and potential increases in insurance premiums. By building a culture where reporting within 24 hours is the norm, you’re protecting your fleet, your drivers and your bottom line.

  So, next time there’s an incident, remember: the clock starts ticking the second it happens – act fast, report smart and keep your fleet moving!

Ascend’s Instant Claims Notification App lets drivers report incidents instantly from the scene, as well as add photos, GPS data and all necessary details, captured on the spot. It also runs a driver incentive programme to encourage immediate reporting. Find out more by calling Ascend Broking Group on 01245 449060 or by emailing info@ascendbroking.co.uk. We’ll guide you through everything you need to know.

  With thanks to Flock Fleet Insurance and Commercial Motor Cover.

If you’d like guidance on any claims queries, our team at Ascend Broking is happy to help. Get in touch with our experts today. Call us on 01245 449060 or email matthew.collins@ascendbroking.co.uk.