The Complete Guide to Making a Car Insurance Claim
Experiencing a road accident can be a stressful event, but knowing how to make a car insurance claim can significantly ease the process. This guide provides detailed instructions on the steps to take after a road accident in Singapore, ensuring your claim is processed smoothly and efficiently.
What to Do Immediately After a Road Accident
Taking the right actions immediately after a road accident is crucial for both your safety and the success of your insurance claim. By following these steps, you can protect yourself and your rights.
Prioritize Safety and Document the Scene
Always prioritize safety first. If there are no severe injuries, move to a safe location and document the scene. Take clear photos and videos of the vehicles involved, the damage, and any relevant road signs. Dashcam footage is extremely valuable in establishing fault and can be a strong piece of evidence for your road traffic accident claim.
Gather Key Information from All Parties Involved
Collect the following information from all drivers and passengers involved in the accident:
- Names and NRIC numbers
- Phone numbers and addresses
- Insurance details and vehicle registration numbers
Also, get the contact information of any witnesses who can provide further support to your car accident insurance claim. Having accurate and complete information is essential for your insurer to process the claim smoothly.
Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Timely reporting is a critical step in ensuring your car accident injury claim is not denied. Inform your insurer of the incident as soon as possible.
Notify Your Insurer Within 24 Hours
Most insurance companies in Singapore require you to report an accident within 24 hours to avoid losing your No Claim Discount (NCD). Failure to do so can lead to complications and even denial of your claim. It’s best to contact your insurer right away, even if you’re unsure about filing a claim.
Visit an Approved Accident Reporting Centre
You must visit an approved accident reporting centre to file your report in person. Bring all the necessary documents, including photos, videos, and contact information collected at the scene. This step is mandatory for all car accidents, regardless of the severity, to ensure compliance with Singapore’s accident insurance claim requirements.
Types of Claims You Can Make
Understanding the types of claims you can file helps you navigate the process and receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
General Damages
General damages cover compensation for pain and suffering due to personal injuries sustained in the accident. To estimate your potential claim amount, you can use the Motor Accident Claims Online Quantum simulator. This tool provides an approximate range based on the type and severity of the injury.
Special Damages
Special damages are for expenses directly resulting from the accident. This includes medical fees, repair costs, transport expenses, and loss of income. Keep all receipts and documentation as they are essential for supporting your claim. Proper documentation can significantly affect the outcome of your car accident insurance claim Singapore.
Bereavement Damages
In the unfortunate event of a fatality, the family of the deceased can claim bereavement damages, which are fixed at S$15,000 under the Civil Law Act. This compensation helps cover funeral expenses and other related costs during a difficult time.
Handling Specific Situations
Certain scenarios, such as hit-and-run cases or non-injury claims, require specific procedures to be followed.
Hit-and-Run Cases
If the other party involved in the accident is unknown, you can claim compensation for personal injuries through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Singapore. This bureau provides compensation for victims of hit-and-run accidents or accidents caused by uninsured drivers.
Non-Injury Motor Claims
For non-injury claims under S$3,000, the Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre (FIDReC) can help resolve disputes directly between consumers and insurers. This service is particularly useful when you and your insurer disagree on the repair costs or liability.
Choosing an Approved Workshop for Repairs
Choosing an authorized repair workshop is crucial for the smooth processing of your car accident injury claim. Unauthorized workshops may lead to claim complications or delays.
Why Use an Authorized Workshop?
Repairs must be carried out at an insurer-approved workshop to ensure your claim is valid. Authorized workshops meet specific standards set by insurance companies, ensuring the repairs are carried out correctly. Using an unauthorized workshop can result in your accident insurance claim being rejected or additional inspections being required.
Deadlines for Filing Motor Claims
Understanding the deadlines for filing different types of claims is essential to avoid losing your right to compensation.
Time Limits for Filing Claims
General Claims
Must be made within 6 years from the date of the accident.
Personal Injury Claims
Must be filed within 3 years from the date of the injury.
Keeping track of these deadlines ensures that your claims are processed without complications. Missing these deadlines can result in your claim being invalid.
For more information on filing motor claims and understanding your rights, you can visit the Singapore Motor Insurance Guide for in-depth insights and updates.
Key Takeaways for Drivers in Singapore
Handling a car accident can be challenging, but these key takeaways will help guide you through the process:
- Prioritize safety first and document the scene meticulously to support your claim.
- Report the accident to your insurance provider within 24 hours to protect your No Claim Discount (NCD).
- Ensure all repairs are carried out at an authorized workshop to avoid issues with your claim.
- Keep track of deadlines for different types of claims to avoid missing out on compensation.
End Note
SG Accident offers tailored personal accident insurance plans designed to provide comprehensive protection for drivers in Singapore. Whether it’s assistance with claims or ensuring you have the right coverage, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us today to find out more about how we can help secure your peace of mind on the road.
