First notification of loss (otherwise known as FNOL) processes, can be somewhat clunky and stressful for claimants. For those who have just suffered an accident this process can be adding to an already stressful situation, not to mention the lack of efficiency this process can have for insurance companies.

It might come as a blessed relief to learn that there’s an alternative to this age-old FNOL procedure which is being fast-tracked by the advent of technology. A relief to both policyholders and insurers looking for ways to reduce their operational expenses.

While normally the initial step in the formal claims process lifecycle, FNOL is being usurped by fellow acronym, ENOL. Which – as an electronic notification of loss is obviously being spearheaded by the involvement of pioneering tech.

Cutting-Edge Tech Ushers in the Dawn of a New ENOL Era

In a world which is powered by tech and the ease of use which predominantly comes with its dawning, the claims process is certainly one area where the seeming advantages outweigh any disadvantages. For all parties with an active interest, including insurance providers, brokers, and supply chains.

Virtual apps which can be instantly accessed via our smartphones and other hand-held portable devices which belong in today’s mainstream allow policyholders to take their time. Creating a smooth and efficient process for customers.

Of course, some core aspects remain cemented in tradition, not least the necessity to indemnify the policyholder from the get-go. And to ensure that details held on insurer’s files at the outset of the policy agreement are correct. Establishing that there’s no discrepancies between the original proposal form and the current claim form. So that insurance providers can siphon out any fraudulent cases before addressing bona fide claims promptly.

Digitalisation of Motor Claims Processes Has Shaken Up the Industry for the Better

Before long, the digitalisation of processes such as these will usurp what went before, as customers show an increased thirst for such interactive service provisions, and demand access to information 24/7 in the palms of their hands.

Bypassing speaking to insurance agents sitting in call centres on the other end of a phone line has been gaining traction before the ushering in of dedicated ENOL apps, with virtual chat functionalities taking over from entering into traditional conversations. So, it was only ever going to be a matter of time before customers switched onto apps, and off from the old school alternatives.

Streamlining of FNOL Protocols

The tech is already a long way down the road of bypassing elements of the motor claims processes which are entrenched firmly in the past, as a new chapter of customer engagement continues to take a far more advanced shape. As technology seeks to capture the real-time data needed to further a motor claim and relying on customers to merely fill in the blanks.

From GPS-enabled geographical detection of accident scenes and the conveying of images which present the evidential facts relating to a specific accident, through to replacement parts and vehicle repair provider suggestion and location information being received, ENOL-championing virtual apps are light years ahead of the previously tried and tested means of FNOL.

The Future of FNOL is ENOL. And It’s Already with Us

It’s now possible to collate virtually everything needed to determine how an accident happened, corroborate with images from the scene, facilitate AI and machine learning practices to assess damage and cost, and effectively triage the claims to total loss principles. Courtesy of ENOL apps.

Which essentially enable policyholders to initiate and drive motor claims processes, shortening the cycle for claimants, insurers, repairers and accident damage companies, from FNOL to settlement. Empowering policyholders to take control and self-manage their own claims journey.

Here at ECSG we streamline motor claims processes from the outset, via our own app. Being long-time advocates of ENOL alternatives so as to equip policyholders with all the tools to minimise hassle, yet speed up once lengthy evaluation exercises and aging hoop-jumping protocols. 

For more information, get in touch with us today.