FLEETS could use body repair networks as the main aid to improve their risk management performance, claims bodyshop network ABS.

It says body repair networks are ideally suited to provide in-depth information to individual fleets on their risk profile.

ABS business development manager Colin Thomson claimed the bodyshop sector could help differentiate between the number of 'at-fault' claims by an individual driver or company division and the overall fleet claims.

Fleets looking to their insurers for this information could struggle, he claimed. Thomson added: 'Without this basic information, fleets cannot identify the areas that need attention and arrive at solutions.'

The company says that once the data has been captured, fleets should contact their insurance broker for independent advice on what could be done to improve their accident rate.

He added: 'We believe that in this situation, specialist fleet insurance brokers are well placed to act as a co-ordinator between a fleet, its insurer and the repairers that it uses. Brokers can also provide guidance on measures such as driver training and driver excess schemes. They are the best source of risk management advice for fleets.'