What To Do When You Get Into An Accident

Based on latest available data, our roads have seen 521,466 accidents in 2016. With the steady increase of cars on our roads, that figure is bound to go up.

But worry not; the General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM) already has plans in motion to reduce accident rates by 20% since two years ago and 50% from 2020 onwards. Plus, there is no shortage of car insurance providers in Malaysia.

Accidents aren’t preventable, but there are steps that you can take to ensure both you and you car are taken care of in the event of a collision.

Move your car aside

An accident is dangerous, but a static car in the middle of the road is an even bigger hazard, especially on major highways where people are prone to speeding. If your car can start, drive it to the side of the road or an emergency lane. If it can’t, enlist the help of others to help you push your car to safety.

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Step out and assess the damage on both cars

Before you do, first determine if this is in fact just an accident. There are some really creative scams out there where they pretend to bump your car and hijack it the moment you step out. Leave your lamps on if it’s dark and use the torchlight feature on your phone to get a better shot of scratches and dents.

Be firm with you want to do

When accidents happen, people are going to try to make a quick buck off you. Don’t panic when motorcyclists pull over and tell you they “know someone who can fix your car for cheap” or a tow truck appears out of nowhere and coerces you into engaging their services. It’s always better to rely on the assistance of your car insurance company.

Exchange information

Make sure to obtain the name, mobile number, license plate number, and driver’s license number of the other party. That way you can hold them accountable if they decide to disappear.

Immediate settlement or insurance claim

There are only two ways to go about this. Agree on a settlement or claim from your car insurance provider. Think about your No-Claim-Discount (NCD). Are you keen to forego that entitlement for a minor collision where no one is hurt? If yes, head to the police station to make a police report right away.

It’s reassuring to have access to a reliable road assistance service. If you’re actively looking for car insurance, AIG would be a great start.

Visit https://www.aig.my/personal/auto-insurance to learn more.