Look at the item on the shelf next to you. Chances are it travelled by truck. Same for the items in your wardrobe, fridge and even your garage.
Our heavy freight network is instrumental in the supply of goods and services. Like other forms of transport, road haulage connects the UK on more than one level.
The road haulage industry is grappling with the issues of supply chain disruptions and ongoing restrictions. Compounding these supply challenges, the trucking industry seems to be facing another, arguably more serious, problem — a severe shortage of drivers.
Challenges and shortages in the road haulage industry open the door to increases in liability claims. Gallagher Bassett’s Motor arm is equipped to provide expertise and support for the unique challenges faced by the haulage industry.
Gallagher Bassett’s Andrew Sewell, Technical Director, shares his top tips for successfully managing transportation liability claims.
1. Mobilise rapid response
Immediately following an incident, the motor carrier and its TPA claims and risk partner are responsible for mobilising stakeholders to relay information to key decision makers. Getting boots on the ground as quickly as possible will help maintain the integrity of the evidence and the investigation, as well as the confidentiality of information to protect the reputation of the motor carrier.
2. Have a plan in place
While responding quickly to an incident is crucial, without a comprehensive plan in place prior to an incident, an organisation risks losing precious time and evidence that can make the difference in resolving a claim. Additionally, taking the time to create a detailed incident response plan can empower the team and provide necessary support in critical times of need.
3. Build the right support team
Every investigation requires the right experts to preserve evidence and protect information. Investing in the right multidisciplinary team, including experienced claims professionals, lawyers that understand the context of similar claims, independent adjusters, and public relations representatives, can prove the difference between resolution and a drawn-out, far more expensive settlement.
4. Be empathetic, respectful and transparent
Speed of response is essential, and a part of this response is the sincerity with which an organisation recognises and takes responsibility for any necessary fault. Whenever possible, communicate understanding of the situation and dedication to finding a fair resolution for all parties. This can go a long way towards improving negotiation during a difficult process.
Gallagher Bassett’s Motor arm is composed of specialised defence attorneys, claims leaders, and experienced transportation claims professionals who specialise in high-severity transportation claims.
The team works collaboratively with transport clients to drive savings for a motor insurer’s liability portfolio.
Out-of-the-box solutions to supply chain issues and driver shortages require out-of-the-box approaches to claims management. To find out how Gallagher Bassett’s Motor claims managers can support you in delivering superior outcomes, contact us today.
