What to Do After a Traffic Accident in Singapore (If You Plan to Claim)

A traffic accident can be overwhelming, especially if you're injured or unsure about your next steps. If you’re considering filing a personal injury claim after an accident in Singapore, it’s crucial to act quickly, document everything, and understand your rights.

In this guide, we explain what to do after an accident, how injury claims work, and how to protect your legal interests.

Step-by-Step: What to Do After an Accident

1. Stop and Stay at the Scene

• Failing to stop after an accident is an offence under the Road Traffic Act (RTA)

• Call emergency services if anyone is injured

  
  

2. Exchange Information

• Take down full names, NRIC/FIN, phone numbers, and vehicle plate numbers

• Photograph NRIC and driver’s license (if permitted)

  
  

3. Take Photos and Videos

• Document:

  • Vehicle damage

  • Injuries

  • Road conditions

  • License plates and surroundings

    
    

4. Make a Police Report (if required)

Required within 24 hours if:

• Someone was injured

• There was damage to government property

• The other party left the scene

  
  

5. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if injuries seem minor, get checked at a clinic or hospital

• Medical reports are crucial evidence in claims

Can I Make a Personal Injury Claim?

You may have grounds for a claim if:

• The accident was not your fault (or not entirely your fault)

• You suffered physical injury, medical expenses, or income loss

  
  

You can typically claim for:

• Medical expenses

• Loss of income

• Pain and suffering

• Future treatment or rehabilitation costs

Most claims are filed under tort law (negligence), and may be settled with the insurer, or through court proceedings.

Is There a Time Limit?

Yes. Under the Limitation Act, personal injury claims must be filed within 3 years from:

• The date of the accident, or

• The date you discovered the injury

  
  

For children or individuals without mental capacity, extensions may apply.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

While minor claims can be settled directly, it’s highly advisable to consult a lawyer if:

• Your injuries are moderate to serious

• Liability is disputed

• You’re being pressured to settle quickly

• The insurer denies your claim

  
  

A lawyer can help you:

• Assess liability

• Negotiate with insurers

• File the claim in court if needed

Get Legal Help with Your Injury Claim

We are experienced in personal injury and traffic-related matters, and help clients secure fair compensation while reducing stress.

Read about us in the news:

• Brain injury, fractures: Cyclists recount the dangers of riding along Tanah Merah Coast Road — The Straits Times

• What should I do if I am travelling by bus to Malaysia and get into an accident? — The Straits Times

• Traffic injuries: Courts may clarify on insurers reimbursing subsidies — The Straits Times

Schedule a confidential consultation or email us at mc@markchenglaw.com to get started.

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