LARGER fleets are beginning to move towards self-insurance as premiums rise, according to feedback gathered by independent bodyshop network ABS.

It claims several large fleets have either approached or signed up with ABS to provide repair services, following insurance premium hikes that have made self-insurance more worthwhile.

Alan Hodgkinson, ABS network director, said: 'The insurance market has been hardening and, in these conditions, many large fleets look carefully at self-insurance. It makes financial sense, especially if you have a poor accident rate.

'The problem for many is the repair factor, as companies do not have access to bodyshops. A few fleets have started using ABS for this purpose.'