Updated 2026-10-11 · Wrenchmap
Short answer: Make the scene safe, call your insurer's 24-hour hotline, exchange names, NRIC or FIN, phone numbers, addresses and insurers, and photograph all the vehicles and the scene. Then report the accident, with the car, at your insurer's approved reporting centre or authorised workshop within 24 hours or by the next working day, even if there is no visible damage.
All motor insurers in Singapore support the Motor Claims Framework (MCF), a common set of steps for reporting accidents. It is a condition of every motor policy, and the steps below follow the framework’s own guide (GIA Motor Claims Framework brochure).
At the scene
- Make it safe. Hazard lights on; if anyone is hurt, call 995.
- Call your insurer’s hotline for a tow truck or for advice. Every insurer has a 24-hour hotline under the MCF.
- Avoid unauthorised tow trucks and workshops. The framework says this in capitals. A tow truck you did not call is not one to accept.
- Exchange particulars with everyone involved: name, NRIC or FIN, phone number, address and insurer. Note every vehicle number.
- Take photos:
- the damage to your own car, with your number plate in shot
- the damage to every other vehicle, with their plates (in a pile-up, at least the cars directly in front and behind)
- the whole scene, showing the vehicles and the surroundings
Within 24 hours: report it
Report the accident and bring the car, damaged or not, to your insurer’s approved reporting centre or authorised workshop within 24 hours or by the next working day. Submit your photos there. Bring your driving licence and certificate of insurance.
This applies to every accident, however trivial, and whether or not you plan to claim. The framework is clear on why: you cannot be sure the other party will not file a claim against you later.
What happens if you do not report
The framework lists the consequences of missing the deadline:
- your insurer may refuse liability, leaving you to pay your own repairs and any third-party claim
- your No Claims Discount will be reduced at renewal
- your insurer may cancel or decline to renew the policy
Private settlement
Agreeing to settle privately does not remove the duty to report. Report it anyway, for the record, and keep the agreement in writing.
The repair
Where you repair depends on your policy. The framework’s FAQ notes that some policies let you use any workshop while others require an authorised one. Ask your insurer before you commit, and ask the workshop whether it is an approved reporting centre for your insurer.
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More questions
Do I have to report a minor accident with no damage?
Yes. The Motor Claims Framework says to report every accident no matter how minor, even with no visible damage and even after a private settlement, because the other party can still claim against you later.
Does reporting cost anything?
No. The framework's FAQ states there are no fees for the inspection, survey and accident e-filing at the reporting centre.
Can someone else report the accident for me?
Under special circumstances, with supporting justification. Contact your insurer for instructions.
Can I repair the car at my own workshop?
It depends on your policy. Some motor policies allow any workshop; others require an authorised one. Check your policy or ask your insurer.