In Practice

Plan of approach
Johan v/d Zand BV is actually much more than just a towing company. We also perform claim assessments wherever necessary. A written report is made of the state of the vehicle in question, consisting of the following:
* indication of damage / situation
* plan of approach
* operations to be carried out
* governments involved
* vehicle and insurance aspects
* detailing of time spent and equipment needed

Photographs provide a clear view of the situation. These are essential, particularly from the point of view of insurance companies involved, given the possibility of claims being submitted for losses. And of course we also talk to the local police. In the event of a situation posing a danger to traffic, immediate action is taken from the Netherlands. Furthermore, in conjunction with the client and the expert we have called in on location, appropriate action is taken immediately, depending on the nature of the damage.

Operations are carried out in consultations with the governments concerned. The office in Buren fields messages and reports from all over Europe. The first thing to be ascertained is whether the vehicle involved is able to return to home base unaided. After that the matter is referred back to the relevant support location, of which there is a considerable number throughout Europe. From there a local expert is engaged to assess whether emergency repairs are appropriate. Quick intervention can save a client money: foreign recovery companies often impose exorbitant and unnecessary charges.

Repatriating a vehicle
If it is not possible for a vehicle to proceed unaided to its destination, then Johan v/d Zand will consult with the client in order to ensure repatriation is carried out without delay. The company's international character means it can generally get a representative to the site of the accident quite quickly. This means we able to provide the benefit of a reliable assessment of the cause, circumstances and consequences of an accident. It also means rapid decisions can be taken as to whether emergency repairs can be carried out or other measures taken.