SingaporeMust I report a minor traffic accident to the police?
Yes, you must report a traffic accident to the police within 24 hours if it results in injury, death, or damage to property (including vehicles) — even if the damage appears minor.
What the Law Says
The Road Traffic Act sets out when and how drivers must report traffic accidents in Singapore.
Under section 84 of the Road Traffic Act, any person involved in a road accident that causes injury to any person, death, or damage to property (including other vehicles, road infrastructure, or private property) must report the incident to the police.
This duty applies regardless of who is at fault or how minor the damage or injury may seem. Even a small dent or scratch on another vehicle triggers the reporting requirement.
The report must be made as soon as reasonably practicable — and in any case, within 24 hours of the accident.
Statutory TextEvery person who is involved in a road accident in which any person is injured or killed or in which damage is caused to property shall, as soon as reasonably practicable and in any case within twenty-four hours after the occurrence of the accident, report the accident to a police officer.
— Road Traffic Act, s. 84 — Duty to report accidents
What to Do
Stop safely at the scene (if no injury or danger) and check for injuries or damage.
Exchange particulars (name, NRIC, vehicle registration, insurer details) with other parties.
Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and damage.
Report the accident to the police via the Police E-Services portal, a Neighbourhood Police Centre, or by calling 999 (if urgent).
Keep a copy of your police report reference number and submit it to your insurer promptly.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.