Four Types of Car Accidents in Singapore That Car Insurance Might Not Cover

Driving on Singapore’s roads can be a challenging experience, especially with the potential for unexpected accidents.

While car insurance is there to cushion the blow, certain types of accidents can complicate the process of filing claims.

Let's dive into four common scenarios that might leave you footing the bill, despite having insurance coverage.

Speeding

Caught in the Speed Trap?

Speeding is a prevalent issue in Singapore, exacerbated by lower traffic volumes during periods like the circuit breaker.

If you’re involved in an accident while speeding, even if you’re not at fault, justifying your case can be tough.

What’s the Catch?

If you are found to be speeding excessively, limiting your liability becomes an uphill battle.

Expect to pay an excess on your claim, which could range from $400 to $800, depending on your policy terms.

Moreover, if you're at fault, brace yourself for a significant hike in your insurance premium—potentially a 30% to 50% increase.

Penalties to Watch Out For

Speeding penalties vary based on how far above the speed limit you were traveling.

Exceeding the limit by 21km/h to 30km/h earns you six demerit points and a $200 fine.

Go over by more than 60km/h, and you could face 24 demerit points, a court summon, possible license suspension, and even imprisonment.

If you’re the victim of an accident involving a speeding driver, gather all possible video evidence to support your claim.

This can reduce your liability and help keep your premiums low.

Drink Driving

Under the Influence? Don’t Even Think About It

Accidents involving drink driving are a nightmare for insurance claims.

Insurers will outright deny any claims related to damages, injuries, or losses if you were driving under the influence.

Consequences Are Severe

First-time offenders can face fines between $2,000 and $10,000 and/or up to one year in jail.

Repeat offenders? The stakes are higher, with fines ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 and up to two years in jail.

Additionally, you’ll lose your driving license for at least two years, or five years for repeat offenses.

Reckless Driving

Reckless on the Road?

Reckless driving accidents not only endanger lives but also lead to serious financial consequences.

Insurance policies typically get voided in these scenarios, leaving you to claim against your own policy.

Be prepared to bear the brunt of excess payments and a no-claim discount (NCD) drop.

Fines and Jail Time

For first-time reckless driving offenses, expect fines up to $5,000 and/or up to 12 months in jail.

Repeat offenses carry fines up to $10,000 and/or up to two years in jail.

If your recklessness results in injuries or fatalities, penalties escalate dramatically.

Stay Focused—Avoid Distractions

A significant source of reckless driving is the use of mobile phones.

Getting caught using a phone while driving can lead to fines up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

Protect yourself by avoiding distractions and consider installing a quality car camera to capture incidents and support your claims.

Hit and Run

Dealing with a Hit and Run?

Hit and run incidents are particularly frustrating.

If your parked car gets hit, report the damage to the police and your insurer immediately.

Your insurance should cover these incidents, provided you file a claim promptly.

Evidence is Key

Having a dashcam or in-car camera can be invaluable.

It provides crucial evidence that can help identify the offending driver and support your claim.

Ensure you drive to the nearest authorized reporting center within 24 hours of discovering the damage to file your claim efficiently.

Conclusion

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Singapore involves understanding the nuances of your insurance policy and the legal implications of your actions.

Speeding, drink driving, reckless driving, and hit and run incidents are fraught with complications that can leave you financially exposed.

Stay informed, drive responsibly, and equip your vehicle with safety measures like dashcams to safeguard yourself against potential pitfalls.

Drive safe and smart to keep your insurance coverage intact and your premiums manageable.

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