Getting into a road accident is stressful, no matter how minor it may seem.
Once the dust settles, the real task begins: sorting out your motor vehicle accident insurance claim in Singapore. Whether it’s a fender bender or something more serious, it’s important to know your rights, your responsibilities, and how to get the compensation you deserve.
In this guide, we walk you through the key steps of handling motor accident claims in Singapore, what to expect from insurers, and what happens when things head to Court.
Personal Injury Claims: How Are They Calculated?
If you’ve been injured in a road accident, compensation isn’t just about covering medical bills. It’s also about recognising the impact the injury has had on your life. That’s why personal injury claims are broken down into two main categories: general damages and special damages.
- General Damages
This part of your claim focuses on how the injury has affected you on a personal level. It includes:
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Loss of ability to enjoy hobbies or social activities
- Long-term effects, such as scarring or disability
There’s no fixed amount for general damages. The Courts in Singapore typically refer to previous case rulings and guidelines. For instance:
- A minor sprain might result in a payout of around $1,000 to $3,000
- A broken bone could range from $5,000 to $15,000
- Permanent injuries or disfigurement may result in significantly higher sums
- Special Damages
Special damages are much more straightforward—they’re based on what you’ve actually spent or lost because of the accident. This may include:
- Medical treatment and hospital fees
- Physiotherapy or long-term care
- Medication costs
- Transportation to and from medical appointments
- Loss of income if you had to take time off work
- Cost of hiring help at home during recovery
For this part of your claim, you’ll need to keep all receipts, invoices, medical records, and salary slips. The more detailed your documentation, the easier it is to recover these costs.
Other Factors That May Affect Your Claim
- Age and Occupation: A younger person with a physically demanding job might receive more if the injury prevents them from returning to work.
- Future Expenses: If ongoing treatment or surgery is needed, the Courts may award future compensation based on expert assessments.
- Pre-existing Conditions: If you already had a condition that the accident worsened, this may be factored in, but it doesn’t mean you can’t claim.
When And How To Inform Your Insurer
After any road accident, even a minor bump, the clock starts ticking. In Singapore, you’re legally required to inform your insurance company within 24 hours or by the next working day. This rule applies whether or not you’re planning to make a motor vehicle accident insurance claim.
Why bother if you don’t want to claim?
Simple. Not reporting could land you in trouble. Your insurer might refuse to honour future claims, impose a penalty, or even void your policy entirely. Some people think they can settle matters privately to avoid losing their No Claim Discount, but skipping the report often backfires.
How do you report it?
Usually, you’ll need to bring your car to an authorised reporting centre or approved workshop, where they’ll inspect the vehicle and file an official report. Bring along:
- Photos of the accident scene
- Your driver’s licence and NRIC
- Insurance details
- A written account of what happened
Your insurer might also ask for a police report, especially if there were injuries or damage to public property.
Remember: Quick, honest reporting makes it easier to file a proper motor accident claim later, especially if the situation becomes messy.
Claiming For Repairs, Injuries Or Losses
Once the dust settles, you may realise the damage isn’t just physical. From smashed bumpers to hospital visits, expenses can stack up quickly. That’s where motor vehicle accident claims in Singapore come in.
Who Do You Claim Against?
It depends on who’s at fault:
- If you caused the accident, you’ll likely be claiming under your own policy (a first-party claim)
- If someone else is responsible, you may be able to make a third-party claim against their insurer
What Can You Claim?
You’re not limited to just repair bills. Depending on the situation, you might be able to claim:
- Car repairs or replacement parts
- Medical fees (including future treatment)
- Loss of income (if you couldn’t work due to injury)
- Transport expenses like car rental or taxi fares
- Pain and suffering in serious cases
How Do You File The Claim?
You’ll need:
- Your insurer’s claim form
- Workshop assessments or quotes
- Medical reports and bills (if applicable)
- The accident report and police report (if required)
It’s best to act fast. Insurers usually have a deadline for filing, and delays can cause unnecessary complications. If you’re unsure whether to file under your own policy or as a third-party claim, consult your insurer or a lawyer before making your move.
What If You’re Disputing Who’s At Fault?
Sometimes, both drivers insist the other was to blame. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Disputes over fault are one of the most common challenges in motor accident claims Singapore drivers face.
Insurers will investigate by piecing together:
- Dashcam or CCTV footage
- Photos from the scene
- Police and accident reports
- Statements from witnesses
- The version of events from both drivers
They’ll look at how the accident occurred; was someone speeding? Did one party ignore a traffic light or fail to give way? Even small details like skid marks or the position of the vehicles can influence the outcome.
In many cases, insurers will settle on what’s called “contributory negligence.” For example:
- If you’re found 30% at fault, your payout will be reduced by that percentage
- You’ll still receive compensation, but it won’t be the full amount
Can you challenge a decision? Yes.
If you believe the findings are unfair or based on inaccurate evidence, you can dispute the outcome. Sometimes, this means going back and forth with insurers. Other times, it may lead to formal legal action, and that’s when having a lawyer becomes especially helpful.
At this point, proper documentation from the beginning really pays off. Photos, witness names, and written statements. All of it can help strengthen your motor vehicle accident insurance claim in Singapore.
Conclusion About Motor Accident Claims In Singapore
Motor accident claims in Singapore can feel like a hassle, but knowing the process helps ease the pressure. From immediate steps to navigating insurance disputes, being informed is your best tool. And if things head to Court, you don’t have to handle it alone.
Get in touch with Tembusu Law today. We’re ready to help you move forward with clarity and confidence with the best criminal lawyers in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Accident Claims In Singapore
Is It Mandatory To Report Every Accident To My Insurer?
Yes, even if you don’t plan to make a claim, all accidents must be reported within 24 hours or the next working day to avoid breaching your insurance policy terms.
How Do I Know Who’s At Fault In An Accident?
The fault is determined based on evidence like dashcam footage, witness accounts, and police reports. Your insurer may also investigate before offering any compensation.
Can I Claim Against The Other Driver’s Insurance If I’m Not At Fault?
Yes. If you’re not responsible for the accident, you can make a third-party claim against the other driver’s insurance company.
What Happens If Both Drivers Are Partially At Fault?
In such cases, fault is split based on the degree of responsibility. Compensation will be adjusted accordingly. For instance, 20% fault means you receive 80% of the repair costs.
When Should I Consider Going To Court For An Accident Claim?
You should consider legal action if negotiations with insurers break down or if the compensation offered doesn’t cover your losses. Legal advice helps in evaluating your options.
