Car accidents can be stressful and disorienting, but knowing what to do in the aftermath is crucial for your safety, legal protection, and insurance claims. In Singapore, there are specific procedures and regulations you must follow after a car accident. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process effectively and ensure compliance with local laws.
Step 1: Ensure Safety First
Your safety and the safety of others involved should always be your top priority.
- Move to a Safe Location : If the vehicles are obstructing traffic, move them to the side of the road or a nearby safe area. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Check for Injuries : Assess yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 995 immediately for medical assistance.
- Stay Calm : Avoid escalating tensions with other drivers. Emotions can run high after an accident, but staying composed is essential.
Step 2: Call the Police
In Singapore, certain types of accidents require you to report the incident to the police.
- When to Call the Police :
- If someone is injured.
- If the other driver refuses to cooperate or flees the scene (hit-and-run).
- If the damage exceeds S$500 (combined damage to all vehicles involved).
- If the accident involves a government vehicle (e.g., bus, taxi, or emergency vehicle).
- How to Report : Dial 999 for urgent assistance or visit a neighborhood police post to file a report within 24 hours of the accident.
Step 3: Exchange Information
Collect detailed information from all parties involved in the accident.
- Exchange Details :
- Full name
- NRIC (National Registration Identity Card) number
- Contact number
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance provider and policy number
- Document the Scene :
- Take photos of the vehicles (from multiple angles), the surrounding area, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Note the date, time, and location of the accident.
- Record weather and traffic conditions.
- Witness Statements : If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and a brief account of what they saw.
Step 4: File a Traffic Accident Report
In Singapore, all accidents involving damage exceeding S$500 must be reported to the Traffic Police.
- Where to File : Visit the Traffic Police E-Service Website or go to a Traffic Police Center to submit a report.
- Required Documents :
- Completed Report to Police for Traffic Accident form.
- Supporting documents (e.g., photos, witness statements).
- Deadline : Reports must be submitted within 24 hours of the accident.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Reporting the accident promptly is essential for processing your claim.
- Notify Your Insurer : Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible, even if the accident seems minor. Most policies require you to report incidents within a specific timeframe.
- Provide Accurate Details : Share all relevant information, including photos, witness statements, and the police report (if applicable).
- Avoid Admitting Fault : While honesty is important, avoid admitting fault or speculating about who caused the accident. Let the insurance adjusters and authorities determine liability.
Step 6: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to see a doctor.
- Why It Matters : Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms until hours or days later. Documenting your condition early strengthens your case for compensation.
- Keep Records : Save all medical bills, prescriptions, and treatment plans related to the accident.
Step 7: Understand No-Claim Discount (NCD) Implications
In Singapore, your No-Claim Discount (NCD) —a discount on premiums for accident-free driving—can be affected by an accident.
- Impact of Fault : If you’re found at fault, your NCD may decrease, leading to higher premiums.
- Third-Party Claims : If the other party is at fault, their insurer may compensate you without affecting your NCD.
Step 8: Consult a Lawyer (If Needed)
While most accidents are resolved through insurance claims, some situations may require legal assistance.
- When to Hire a Lawyer :
- The accident resulted in severe injuries or fatalities.
- The other party disputes liability.
- You’re facing challenges with your insurance company.
- You believe the settlement offer is unfair.
- Types of Compensation : A lawyer can help you recover costs for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and vehicle repairs.
Step 9: Repair Your Vehicle
Once the insurance claim is approved, proceed with repairing your vehicle.
- Choose a Repair Shop : Many insurers have preferred repair shops, but you’re entitled to choose your own.
- Temporary Transportation : Ask your insurer about rental car coverage while your vehicle is being repaired.
Step 10: Learn from the Experience
After resolving the aftermath of the accident, take steps to prevent future incidents.
- Review Your Driving Habits : Reflect on whether distractions, speeding, or poor judgment contributed to the accident.
- Update Your Insurance Policy : Consider adding optional coverage, such as personal accident or excess waiver insurance, for better protection.
- Take Defensive Driving Courses : These courses can improve your skills and sometimes qualify you for insurance discounts.
Additional Tips for Specific Scenarios
Hit-and-Run Accidents
If the other driver flees the scene:
- Write down their license plate number, make, model, and color of the vehicle.
- Report the incident to the police immediately.
- Notify your insurance company, as uninsured motorist coverage may apply.
Accidents Involving Pedestrians or Cyclists
- Prioritize calling emergency services.
- Avoid moving the injured person unless absolutely necessary.
- Cooperate fully with law enforcement during investigations.
Minor Accidents
For minor accidents where no one is injured and the damage is below S$500:
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- There’s no need to file a police report, but you should still notify your insurer.
