Car accidents, regardless of their magnitude, can be a bewildering experience. Ensuring your safety and navigating the legal procedures in Singapore can be quite challenging. Hence, understanding the steps to take after a car accident is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive rundown of what to do immediately following a car accident in Singapore. Prioritise Safety Post-accident, the first and foremost priority should be safety. If it’s a minor accident and you’re unhurt, move your vehicle to a safer location such as the road shoulder to prevent traffic congestion and further accidents. Remember, under the “Move Car First” initiative by Singapore Traffic Police, drivers involved in minor accidents should move their vehicles to a safe location instead of obstructing traffic.
Assess Injuries and Call for Help Next, check for any injuries for yourself and your passengers. If anyone is seriously injured, call for an ambulance immediately via the SCDF hotline at 995. Regardless of injury severity, it is advisable to call the Singapore Police Force at 999 or the Emergency Medical Services at 1777 to report the accident.
Document the Incident Documenting the incident is crucial for insurance and potential legal proceedings. Capture clear photographs of the accident scene, including the damages to your vehicle and any other vehicles involved. Take note of the date, time, location, and weather conditions, and jot down a description of the accident while the memory is still fresh. Gather details from the other drivers involved such as their name, contact information, and vehicle number.
Report the Accident to Your Insurer As per Singapore regulations, all accidents must be reported to your insurer within 24 hours or by the next working day, even if there is no damage or you have settled privately with the other driver. Failing to do so may result in your No Claim Discount (NCD) being affected or your policy being voided.
Get Medical Attention Even if you feel fine after the accident, some injuries may not be immediately apparent due to the shock. It’s important to get a medical check-up to detect and treat any hidden injuries. Keep all medical reports and bills as they might be needed when making an insurance claim.
Engage a Lawyer if Necessary If the accident leads to disputes or if you have been unfairly blamed, you may need to engage a lawyer. A legal expert can guide you through the process, helping protect your rights and interests. In summary, staying calm, ensuring safety, documenting the scene, promptly reporting the accident, and seeking medical help are critical steps to take following a car accident in Singapore. Remember, your actions post-accident can significantly impact your legal rights and insurance claims
