Getting into a car accident is an unfortunate experience. Whether it’s minor or major, you’re bound to feel a whirlwind of emotions after the accident. This is especially true if you’re the driver or passenger of the vehicle involved in the crash, as you may have sustained injuries due to the impact.
The first thing you need to do is take note of all the details at the scene of the crash without moving your car (if possible). You’ll also want to try to capture a variety of wide and tight photos, as well as a photo of each vehicle’s license plate. In addition, if you have a dashcam on your car, the footage could help prove that you weren’t at fault in the incident.
You’ll also need to report the accident to your insurer right away, regardless of how insignificant or minor the collision might seem. This is especially important if the accident occurred overseas, as non-reporting could result in your policy being deemed invalid. To do so, head over to one of the following Approved Reporting Centres / Authorised Workshops, within 24 hours.
If you’re a passenger, you may be eligible to make a third-party claim car accident claim Singapore against the driver who caused the accident or the owner of the vehicle they were driving. Typically, this involves claiming for medical expenses and damages to your car. It’s worth noting, however, that the process can be lengthy. In most cases, the injured party will need to consult with a personal injury lawyer who will then file the necessary paperwork on their behalf.
In some instances, the injured parties may wish to sue both drivers for their involvement in the accident, or even the manufacturer of the vehicle if the crash is due to a mechanical failure. This is usually a last resort, however, as it’s much more time-consuming and expensive than filing a third-party claim.
To help motorists decide whether to sue or settle a road accident claim, the Law Society of Singapore and Singapore Academy of Law have developed an online tool called Motor Accident Claims Online (Maco). Using Maco, those involved in an accident can get a better idea of which party is at fault for the incident, and how much they should be entitled to receive as compensation.
While the industry has taken steps to simplify and expedite road accident claims, it’s still a lengthy process for those who sustain injuries as a result of an incident. The average case can take up to three months to settle once all of the required documents are submitted. If you’re injured in a car accident, it’s best to work with an experienced attorney to ensure that your case is settled as quickly and smoothly as possible.
In the meantime, Bhargava hopes that more can be done to punish the small number of irresponsible motorists who shirk their responsibilities and stall the entire insurance system. “It’s not fair for the rest of us who have to pay higher premiums,” he says.