Ford’s Accident Management programme has been recognised as Innovation of the Year at this year’s Bodyshop Magazine Awards. This new initiative also helped secure two separate overall manufacturer awards from Bodyshop Magazine and the Auto Body Professionals (ABP) Club.

Ford Accident Management provides an improved service for Ford customers as a result of streamlined communications between insurers and Ford’s repair network. Unlike existing programmes, Ford Accident Management does not allow any personal injury referral fees to be paid and there are no credit hire or credit repair agreements for customers to sign.

Paul McDermott, Ford collision repair manager, said: “I am really delighted that we have been recognised for our work on accident management. The Ford Accident Management programme is aligned with the Government’s recent commitment to ban referral fees and to counteract the high costs of motor insurance.”

“Beating two other manufacturers to take the Vehicle Manufacturer of the Year title is testament to the team’s hard work and commitment to aftersales excellence,” said Bodyshop Magazine.

David Cresswell, ABP Club chairman, said: "Congratulations to Paul McDermott and his team for a very well deserved award. The Ford Accident Management programme certainly appears to be the right product at the right time. With no personal injury referral it fits in well with the mood of the market and the Government’s move to ban referral fees."