Pictured: Launching the new scheme at Furrows of Shrewsbury
are, from left, Alan Clavin, John Evans, Russ Smith and Paul
McDermott
Shropshire's leading Ford motor dealership is making it easier
for customers to get their cars back on the road with the launch of
a new "accident management" programme.
Furrows, which sells Ford models from its Telford, Shrewsbury
and Oswestry dealerships, is backing the new nationwide scheme
which simplifies communication between drivers, insurance companies
and the Ford repair network.
Keith Lloyd, from Furrows of Shrewsbury, explains: "Ford
Accident Management is a free service for all new and used Ford
vehicle drivers in the UK, regardless of their insurance
company.
"Ford drivers simply contact the special hotline - 0800 587 3673
- which will arrange for repairs to be conveniently carried out at
their nearest Ford accident repair centre, using genuine Ford
trained technicians, following Ford repair methods. One call sorts
out everything."
The launch of the service follows recommendations by the House
of Commons transport committee, which wanted to see a more
transparent and efficient way of driving down the cost of claims,
with regard to referral fees, car hire charges and personal injury
claims.
Mr Lloyd added: "This programme will not induce customers to
make a personal injury claim. Customers retain their legal right to
make a valid claim, but neither Ford nor any of its partners will
benefit from this.
"The team at Furrows dealerships will not be asking drivers to
sign credit agreements underwriting the cost of repairs, or hire
car provision.
"This is great news for Ford drivers across Shropshire. It takes
over many complex parts of the repair process, such as contacting
the insurance company, organising vehicle recovery, and providing a
courtesy car, with a single phone call or even at the touch of a
button on your Iphone."
Ageas Insurance Limited is the first insurer to endorse Ford
Accident Management. Spokesman Rob Smale said: "I have been
impressed by Ford's determination to do something different within
accident management.
"We look forward to assessing the success of this new programme
and working with Ford, handling calls to benefit
customers."