If Crawford & Co. has its way, third-party vehicle inspections may become a thing of the past.
Last week, claims management solutions provider Crawford released a self-service inspection application for the iPhone and iPad. The app, called My VCI, is designed to be used by leasing companies for the vehicle inspections typically performed shortly before lease termination, said Blair Bennett, Crawford’s assistant vice president and director of vehicle services. Fleet managers who need to regularly inspect their vehicles also may find the app useful.
Here’s how it works: The application walks the user step-by-step through the inspection process. After the process is complete, all necessary data is uploaded to the appropriate stakeholders, based on the configuration determined by the client.
“My VCI should provide a faster, better experience for the customer,” Bennett said. “They’ll be able to download the app and complete the inspection in 10 to 20 minutes, on their own time and without the need for a visit from an inspector.”
With the absence of inspectors and high level of automation, My VCI should cost about 60% to 80% less than an in-person vehicle inspection, Bennett said. “We expect the cost savings combined with the convenience to customers to offer an attractive alternative to in-person inspections for both the client and the leasing company, ultimately helping to improve their client retention.”
My VCI represents the latest in a series of investments the Atlanta-based company has recently made in its nationwide vehicle claims services, which include damage appraisals and condition inspections for a variety of vehicles, an extensive managed repair network and towing services.
A browser-based version and applications for other digital devices will follow, as will one for commercial truck inspections, the company said.
