Total will manage everything from First Notification of Loss through to repair of the BBC fleet, all liaison with third-party suppliers and internal BBC departments, as well as Uninsured Loss Recovery services.

The firm was chosen for its value-for-money accident management offering. Total has developed an effective "damage evaluator process" to ensure the most suitable method of repair is adopted for the type and severity of the accident damage, at the same reducing vehicle off the road times and repair costs.

Each vehicle will be sent via the most efficient repair route. Minor body damage will be repaired via a network of mobile bodyshops enabling the minor damage repair work to be undertaken at a location convenient for the driver (home or office as an example). This ensures downtime is limited to one day only, and eliminates the need for a hire vehicle. Major damage repair work will however be sent via the more traditional bodyshop route.  

The nature of the BBC fleet sees the company utilising a high volume of short-term rental vehicles, which is why Total’s services encompass a fully comprehensive rental damage management programme.

In addition, the BBC will take part in Total’s driver customer survey services. This process requires all BBC drivers to be surveyed following completion of a repair, so Total can measure driver satisfaction throughout the repair process on a daily basis. This information will then be fed back to the BBC during the monthly review meetings.

Penny Stoolman, managing director of Total Accident Management, said: 'We are pleased to be providing a comprehensive range of services to the BBC and help them keep their vehicle off the road times and repair costs in check. Our damage evaluator process, ability to manage mixed fleets and flexibility of working with third-party suppliers stands us in a good position to work with the BBC and further develop its fleet accident approach over the coming years.'