At The Scene Of A Traffic Accident – What Should I Do?
Hero is an action word. You are probably already a hero. Maybe you helped someone through a hard time, or showed up when it wasn’t easy. None of us want to find ourselves at the scene of a traffic accident, but it can happen. If it does, here is expert advice on what to do.
The Golden Rule
Never put yourself in harm’s way - this will only complicate the situation. However, if it is safe for you, do the following:
For People At The Scene
Remain calm. If anyone is injured, the first priority is to call for an ambulance, call – 995 and the police, call – 999. You can provide first aid if you are trained to do so. Do not move any vehicles and/or persons unless instructed by the police. Make sure those who are not injured are safely away from the scene and that no one is smoking.
For The Vehicle(s) At The Scene
Check the engine(s) are turned off. For non-injury accidents, if the accident vehicles are obstructing traffic or if is posing a hazard to other road users move the accident vehicles to a safe place. But only if it’s safe to do so. For accidents with injury/death, vehicles are not to be moved unless instructed by the police. Use vehicle breakdown signs, hazard lights or reflectors to warn other road users of the accident.
Basic First Aid
Only remove an injured person from a vehicle if it is absolutely necessary to do so.
Only remove a motorcyclist’s helmet if it is essential to clear their airways.
Try and keep an injured person warm. Offer reassurance but don’t give him/her anything to eat, drink or smoke.
Signs of shock are a rapid pulse, heartbeat or shallow breathing, pale grey skin or sweating. People in shock require calm reassurance. Try to keep them warm and comfortable.
Do I Need To Report The Accident?
For accidents involving injury/death/pedestrian/cyclist/government or foreign vehicles/government property, you are required to make a police report as soon as possible or within 24 hours of the accident and complete the General Insurance Association of Singapore (GIA) Motor Accident Report (MAR) Form as well.
For non-injury accidents, you are not required to make a police report but you will still need to complete and submit the GIA MAR Form to your insurer as soon as possible. The GIA MAR Form is available from your insurer.
Along the way, if you receive any Writ of Summons, Traffic Summons or other correspondence from third parties, inform and provide full details immediately to your insurer.
What Information Do I Need?
Exchange driver's particulars; name, NRIC, address, contact number, car registration number and name of insurance company. If there are witnesses, take down their particulars and contact numbers. Record the date, time and location of the accident. If a camera is available, take pictures of the damaged vehicles, otherwise take note of the damages on paper. Do not admit or discuss liability at this stage.
How Do I Make A Claim?
At DirectAsia, insurance is simple. Especially when you make a claim. Details here.
Invest 5 Minutes For Instant Rewards
Get great value car insurance in just 5 minutes. Buying direct you avoid paying brokers' commission of up to 25% on your insurance. Choose the plan you want. Pay the way you want. You are insured!
