Four Actions You Can Take to Successfully Manage Transportation Liability Claims

By: Doug Betkowski

June 24, 2022 — Look at the item on the shelf next to you. Chances are it traveled by truck. Same for the items in your wardrobe, fridge, even your garage.

America's heavy freight network is instrumental in the supply of goods and services. Like other forms of transport, heavy freight, otherwise known as trucking, connects our nation on more than one level.

Transportation operations are grappling with the issues of supply chain disruptions and ongoing restrictions. Compounding these supply challenges, operating a fleet seems to be facing another, arguably more serious, problem — a severe shortage of drivers.

The factors influencing a shortage in drivers are insurmountable, which has left many trucking companies exploring out-of-the-box options. The most controversial? Lowering the age requirement to drive a heavy freight vehicle to 18.

Whether or not you agree, challenges and shortages in transportation operations open the door to increases in liability claims. Gallagher Bassett's Transportation Major Case Unit (MCU) is equipped to provide expertise and support for the unique challenges faced by the transportation industry.

Gallagher Bassett's SVP, Transportation Practice, Doug Betkowski, shares his top tips to successfully managing transportation liability claims.

1. Mobilize Rapid Response

Immediately following an incident, the motor carrier and its TPA claims and risk partner are responsible for mobilizing stakeholders to relay information to key decision makers. Getting boots on the ground as quickly as possible will help maintain the integrity of the evidence and the investigation, as well as the confidentiality of information to protect the reputation of the motor carrier.

2. Have a plan in place

While responding quickly to an incident is crucial, without a comprehensive plan in place prior to an incident, an organization risks losing precious time and evidence that can make the difference in resolving a claim. Additionally, taking the time to create a detailed incident response plan can empower the team and provide necessary support in critical times of need.

3. Build the Right Support Team

Every investigation requires the right experts to preserve evidence and protect information. Investing in the right multidisciplinary team, including experienced claims professionals, lawyers that understand the context of similar claims, independent adjusters, and public relations representatives, can prove the difference between resolution and a drawn-out, far more expensive settlement.

4. Be Empathetic, Respectful, and Transparent

Speed of response is essential, and a part of this response is the sincerity with which an organization recognizes and takes responsibility for any necessary fault. Whenever possible, communicate understanding of the situation and dedication to finding a fair resolution for all parties. This can go a long way toward improving negotiation during a difficult process.

Gallagher Bassett's Transportation MCU is composed of specialized defense attorneys, claims leaders, and experienced transportation claims professionals who specialize in high-severity transportation claims.

The MCU team works collaboratively with transport clients to drive savings for a motor carrier's liability portfolio.

Out-of-the-box solutions to supply chain issues and driver shortages require out-of-the-box approaches to claims management. To find out how Gallagher Bassett's Transportation MCU can support you in delivering superior outcomes, contact us today.