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Road accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. When faced with such a situation, most drivers panic and cannot think clearly. If you are involved in an accident, you must file a car accident police report immediately.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Road Accident?
When you are involved in an accident, it’s important to stay calm and not panic. To assist you, here are some steps you can follow if you find yourself in a road accident:
1. Move Your Vehicle to the Side of the Road
If possible, move your vehicle to the shoulder of the road or stop at a safe location.
2. Check Your Vehicle/Injuries
Carefully exit your car and assess the damage to your vehicle. Also, check for any injuries on yourself or your passengers.
3. Seek Immediate Assistance
Contact your car insurance company’s customer service hotline for assistance. It is advisable to deal with tow truck operators registered with your insurance company to avoid any further issues.
4. Take Photos and Collect Witness Details as Evidence
Take photos of the accident scene, damage to your car, and the other vehicle involved. These photos can serve as important evidence for insurance claims and police reports. Note down important details such as:
- Car number plate;
- Road tax details;
- Identification of the individuals involved;
- Location and time of the accident.
When Should a Police Report Be Made?
According to Section 52(2) of the Road Transport Act 1987, a police report must be made within 24 hours after an accident occurs:
“In the event of an accident as previously mentioned, the driver of the motor vehicle, and if there is more than one motor vehicle, the driver of each motor vehicle, must report the accident at the nearest police station as soon as reasonably practicable and in any case within twenty-four hours after the occurrence of the event, and must present to the officer in charge of the police station his driving license and, if required, the insurance certificate issued under section 90 of this Act.”
Failure to make a police report within the stipulated time without a reasonable excuse can result in penalties:
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- First conviction: a fine of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment for up to six months;
- Subsequent convictions: a fine of up to RM4,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months.
However, these penalties depend on the situation and circumstances. Exemptions may be given for reasons supported by an official medical report, such as being hospitalized or requiring emergency treatment for injuries sustained in the accident.
5. Get Immediate Medical Attention
If the accident results in injuries, seek medical treatment at a hospital immediately. This also enables you to file medical claims or other relevant claims if needed.
6. File a Car Accident Police Report
Go to the nearest police station to file a police report. The report must be made within 24 hours after the accident.
What Happens If a Police Report Is Not Made Within 24 Hours?
A police report should be made as soon as possible, even if you are not at fault. The police report is intended to protect you from third-party claims or unexpected injury claims.
If you do not file a police report after an accident, the investigating officer will usually side with the individual who made the report. This is because the police may assume that the person who did not file a report is at fault, suspicious, or trying to avoid a summons.
Additionally, your insurance company may reject your claim if you fail to submit a police report or if the report is made after the 24-hour period.
You may not be responsible for the accident. However, without evidence like a police accident record, you could be held liable for financial losses that aren’t your fault.
7. Inform Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company to file an accident insurance claim. The claim should be made as soon as possible, ideally within seven days from the date of the accident.
Can Accident Insurance Claims Be Made Without a Police Report?
It is possible to file an accident insurance claim without a police report. However, the process may take longer because the fault or damage is harder to prove.
A police accident report helps substantiate your claim, especially if you assert that you are not responsible for the accident. This facilitates the insurance company’s investigation, allowing you to receive compensation more quickly.
It is advisable to file a police report to avoid delays or potential rejection of your claim.
8. Service Your Car at a Panel Workshop
The car should be taken to an insurance panel workshop or a reputable vehicle service center to ensure the damage is properly repaired and genuine car parts are used.
9. Complete
Wait for your car’s repair process to be completed. Besides repair costs, you can also claim Compensation for Assessed Repair Time (CART). Refer to this article for more information on how to claim accident car insurance and loss of use insurance in Malaysia.
Make a Police Report to Facilitate Car Accident Insurance Claims Process
If you’re involved in an accident, regardless of fault, make a police report promptly. Ensure the accident report is filed within 24 hours of the incident. Failure to do so may complicate the car accident insurance claims process or result in your claim being rejected.
Additionally, ensure you have comprehensive car insurance coverage for optimal vehicle protection. First-party car insurance not only covers third parties but also protects your own vehicle. This means you won’t have to bear the cost of repairing car damages out of pocket.
For more information on the best comprehensive car insurance, visit the Qoala website. Qoala is Malaysia’s premier insurance comparison and renewal platform. With over 10 top insurance brands, you can compare and select the right car insurance policy for your vehicle.
