A Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Car Insurance Claim in Singapore

If you've been in a car accident in Singapore, following specific rules for making a car insurance claim is essential.

Here’s a quick and handy guide on what to look out for.

First Things First: Ensuring Safety and Contacting Authorities

The immediate priority after an accident is to ensure everyone's safety.

If there are injuries or if the accident involves government vehicles, unregistered vehicles, or a hit-and-run, contact the police immediately.

Secure the scene by placing a triangular emergency sign 20 meters before the accident site.

On highways, move your vehicle to the road shoulder if possible, but make sure to take pictures of the accident before doing so.

Communicate and Get Information

To ensure you have everything covered for your insurance claim, exchange contact information with those involved in the accident.

Essential details to note include:

• Names and NRIC/FIN Numbers
• Addresses and telephone contact numbers
• Vehicle registration numbers and insurance companies
• Company name if it involves a company-owned vehicle

Avoid admitting liability or signing any promissory notes agreeing to pay for damages.

Ensure repair transactions are conducted fairly to avoid complications in the claims process.

Take Photos of the Accident

Documenting the accident with photos is crucial.

Capture the positions of the cars, license plate numbers, the time, date, location, and weather and road conditions.

This information helps your insurer determine how the accident happened.

Photos of skid marks and debris can also aid in the assessment.

Remember to save the dashcam footage of the accident if available.

Don’t Delay Reporting the Accident

Report the accident within 24 hours or by the next working day at an approved accident reporting center.

Failure to do so can affect your No Claims Discount and prejudice your claim.

Prompt reporting ensures accurate and reliable accounts from all parties involved, making the claims process smoother.

Make Sure to Use an Authorized Workshop

Once you have reported the accident, proceed to get your car repaired at an insurer-approved workshop.

Check your insurance details or ask your insurer for advice before heading to a workshop.

Using approved workshops ensures fair market prices for repairs and maintains the arm's length principle between you and the workshop.

Conclusion

Navigating the car insurance claim process after an accident in Singapore can be daunting, but following these steps ensures a smoother experience.

Prioritize safety, gather detailed information, document the scene, report promptly, and use authorized workshops to protect your interests and expedite your claim.

By doing things right, you can overcome the challenges and focus on getting back on the road.

Writer's note: Images are purely fictional; for illustration only.