The excitement of balik kampung is in the air—families packing their bags, highways filled with eager travelers, and the long drive ahead to reunite with loved ones. But with increased traffic and fatigue from long hours on the road, accidents can happen when we least expect them. If you find yourself in a car accident during your Hari Raya journey, knowing what to do can help you stay calm and handle the situation effectively.
Immediate Actions at the Scene
The moments right after an accident are crucial. First, check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, don’t hesitate—call 999 immediately for emergency assistance. Even minor injuries shouldn’t be ignored, as they could worsen later.
If the accident is minor and your car is still drivable, move it to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and causing further accidents. This is especially important on busy highways during the festive season when traffic is at its peak.
Turn on your hazard lights and, if you have one, place a warning triangle about 45 meters behind your vehicle to alert other drivers. This simple step can prevent secondary accidents and keep everyone safer.
Gathering Information & Reporting
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, exchange details with the other driver involved. Get their name, phone number, car plate number, and insurance information. Keep the conversation factual and avoid heated discussions about who caused the accident.
Take clear photos of the accident scene from multiple angles, including:
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- The position of the vehicles before moving them (if possible)
- Road conditions and any relevant traffic signs
- Any visible injuries (with permission)
If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact information. Their accounts could be valuable if there are disputes later about how the accident happened.
Remember that Malaysian law requires you to report any accident to the police within 24 hours. Visit the nearest police station to file a report, which you’ll need for insurance claims.
Insurance & Post-Accident Considerations
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible—many have 24-hour hotlines specifically for accident claims. They can guide you through the next steps and may send an adjuster to assess the damage.
Important: Avoid admitting fault at the scene, even if you think you might have caused the accident. Let the police and insurance companies assess the situation objectively based on evidence.
If your car needs repairs, send it to a panel workshop covered by your insurance to avoid complications with your claim. Your insurance agent can recommend authorized workshops.
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, monitor yourself for delayed symptoms. Injuries like whiplash or soft tissue damage often appear hours or even days later. Seek medical attention if you notice any pain or discomfort.
Stay Safe This Festive Season
Balik kampung should be a joyful journey to celebrate with family and friends. While we hope you never need this advice, being prepared can make a stressful situation more manageable.
Before hitting the road, ensure your car is in good condition, plan your route to avoid congestion, take regular breaks to combat fatigue, and most importantly—drive defensively.
Stay alert, drive safe, and may you have a smooth and blessed Hari Raya celebration with your loved ones!