In 2018, 7,690 accidents resulting in injuries were recorded in Singapore. With that many accidents happening every year, it’s essential that you know what you should do if you get involved in a car accident—particularly when you’re a tourist who’s on a long term car rental.
Dealing with a car accident is one thing, but getting a rental car damaged is another story. In this article, learn what you should do in the event of a car accident in Singapore.
1. Check for injuries. If you’re travelling with your family, make sure that everyone in the vehicle. Check as well the surrounding scene and the other car/s involved. Call 999 immediately and an ambulance if necessary. You’ll also want a police assistance to help with the traffic.
2. Document. Once you’ve determined the scene is safe, you’ll have to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved and take pictures of the scene and the damage incurred. Leave the scene when it’s safe to do so.
NOTE: If possible, try not to mention that you’re driving a rental car, as others may try to take advantage of the situation.
3. Contact your insurance company. Notify your own insurance company of the accident and ask whether they’ll take over of the filling of an accident report with the local police for you. Ask for any coverage in your policy in addition to the liability coverage required by law.
4. Contact your rental company. The procedure basically goes the same with driving your own car, except you’ll have to deal with your rental company which could mean additional paperwork. Inform them of the accident and ask them how to proceed. Make sure to re-read the terms and conditions if necessary.
5. Find out who’s responsible in the claim. Some car rental companies offer complete coverage for collision and accident as long as you pay the premium. It means they'd cover the cost of damage if it's confirmed that you're at fault.
Nobody wants to be involved in a car accident, but in the event that you happen to be in one, the best thing you can do is to remain calm and follow this protocol.
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