The Essential Guide to Reporting Car Accidents in Singapore
Accidents can happen when you least expect them, and knowing what to do after a car accident in Singapore is essential to ensure your safety and protect your legal and insurance interests.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the necessary actions after an accident, from checking for injuries to reporting to the authorities and informing your insurance company.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
Knowing how to respond right after an accident is crucial. Follow these steps to ensure everyone’s safety and handle the situation responsibly.
Stop and Check for Injuries
After an accident, always stop your vehicle immediately and check if anyone is injured. If medical attention is needed, call 995 for an ambulance or 999 for the police. For injuries requiring hospitalization, it’s important to stay calm and avoid moving the injured until professional help arrives.
Activate Hazard Lights and Stay Safe
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and secure the accident area. Staying safe is paramount, especially if the accident occurs on a busy road. Avoid moving injured individuals unless it’s absolutely necessary for their safety, and wait for medical assistance to arrive.
When You Must File a Police Report
In Singapore, certain accidents must be reported to the police within 24 hours. Understanding when this is required can prevent legal complications and help with car accident injury claim processes.
Mandatory Reporting Requirements
You are required to file a police report if the accident involves:
- Injuries that require hospitalization or fatalities
- Pedestrians, cyclists, or foreign vehicles
- Damage to government property.
How to File a Police Report
You can file a police report at any police station, but the easiest way is through the online Traffic Accident Report Portal. Filing a report as soon as possible ensures that the incident is officially recorded, which is vital for insurance purposes and any subsequent road traffic accident claims.Informing Your Insurance Company
Regardless of the severity of the accident, always inform your personal accident insurance company within 24 hours to avoid penalties.Contact Your Insurer Within 24 Hours
Even if you don’t plan to make a claim, you must notify your insurer of the accident. Failing to report within 24 hours can result in the loss of your No Claim Discount (NCD) and may even invalidate future car accident injury claims.Information to Provide to Your Insurance
When contacting your insurer, be ready to provide details such as:- Photos or videos of the accident scene
- Statements from witnesses
- Personal details of those involved, including their personal accident insurance information
Collecting Evidence at the Accident Scene
Gathering evidence at the scene can significantly strengthen your case for an accident insurance claim and expedite the claims process.Take Photos and Videos
Document the scene by taking clear, detailed photos and videos of the vehicles, the damage, and the surrounding area. These visual records are crucial for medical injury claims and insurance investigations.Exchange Contact and Insurance Information
Be sure to exchange the following information with the other parties involved:- Names and NRIC numbers
- Phone numbers
- Insurance policy information. This data is essential for filing a car accident injury claim and for your insurer to verify the accident details.
What Happens After Reporting the Accident
After reporting the accident to the police and your insurer, there are several next steps to take regarding your vehicle.Also read: Tips for Saving on Accident Insurance Premiums
Getting Your Car Repaired
Follow the guidelines provided by your insurer for car repairs. Most insurance companies work with authorized repair shops and offer towing services to transport your vehicle. Using an unauthorized repair shop may affect your car accident injury claim Singapore process and could lead to complications with the claim.| Step | Details |
| Contact Insurer | Notify your insurer within 24 hours. |
| Collect Evidence | Take photos and videos at the scene. |
| File Police Report | Submit within 24 hours if required by law. |
| Get Vehicle Repaired | Use authorized repair services to avoid claim complications. |
Key Takeaways for Drivers in Singapore
Handling a car accident effectively requires immediate action and clear communication with both the authorities and your insurer. Here’s a summary of the key steps every driver should take:- Always report accidents involving injuries or significant damage to the police within 24 hours.
- Inform your insurance provider immediately, even for minor accidents, to protect your No Claim Discount (NCD).
- Gather as much evidence as possible at the scene to streamline the claim process.
