Accidents can happen anywhere even during a quick holiday to Hat Yai, a family trip, or a weekend shopping drive across the border. Knowing what to do ensures your safety, avoids unnecessary costs, and speeds up insurance claims.
This guide gives Malaysian drivers a clear, practical checklist to follow immediately after an accident in Thailand.
Why Malaysian Drivers Must Know the Correct Accident Procedure in Thailand
When driving your Malaysian vehicle into Thailand, you must carry:
- Compulsory Insurance (CI / Por Ror Bor)
- TM2/TM3 Forms
- Voluntary Insurance (optional but strongly recommended)
These documents are often requested by police officers, Tourist Police, or insurers after an accident. Knowing what to do, and what NOT to do will helps you stay in control.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Stay Calm and Ensure Safety
Your safety comes first.
- Turn on hazard lights
- Check if everyone is okay
- Move vehicles to a safe area (if possible)
- Avoid blocking traffic
- Do not panic or argue
2. Do NOT Admit Fault
Never admit fault on the spot.
Avoid saying:
- “I'm sorry”
- “My mistake”
- “I didn’t see you”
Let the police or insurer determine responsibility. This protects your claim and legal standing.
3. Take Clear Photos & Videos
Evidence is extremely important for Thai insurance companies.
Capture:
- Close-up and wide shots of vehicle damage
- Number plates (yours & theirs)
- Road condition
- Location and surroundings
- Skid marks, debris, traffic signs
4. Exchange Details With the Other Driver
Make sure to collect the other driver details such as;
- Name
- Phone number
- Car plate number
- Insurance company details
If language is a problem, use Google Translate or call Tourist Police 1155 for assistance.
5. Call Your Insurance Company
Depending on your cover:
Compulsory Insurance (CI): Only covers injury to the other party — not your vehicle.
Voluntary Insurance (VI): Covers your medical expenses, medical expenses, injury compensation and property damage for third party and bail bond.
- The insurer may send an adjuster
- They will guide you through the process
- They can arrange repairs if you’re covered
Make sure to keep your policy number ready and the hotline saved in your phone.
6. Call Tourist Police (1155) If Needed (optional)
Tourist Police can help when:
- There is a language barrier
- You feel unsafe
- You need help identifying your location
- You need guidance on procedures
Hotline: 1155 (24/7)
Languages: English, some Malay, Chinese
Worry not, they assist tourists not to punish you.
7. File a Police Report (If Required)
You must file a report if:
- Someone is injured
- Damage is severe
- Your insurer requests it
- The other party refuses cooperation
The report strengthens your insurance claim. Here’s the police stations you may look for:
8. Keep All Documents
After the incident, keep:
- Police report copy
- Photos and videos
- Witness contacts
- Insurance documents
- Receipts (towing, transport, etc.)
These are needed during claims processing.
Pro Tips for Malaysian Drivers
- Keep photocopies of CI, TM2/TM3, passport in your glove box
- Save Thai emergency numbers before entering
- Install Google Maps Offline Mode
- Carry a power bank
- Take photos of your vehicle condition before entering Thailand (useful for claims)
Driving into Thailand is safe and enjoyable when you’re well prepared. Accidents can be stressful but with the right steps, you stay protected, confident, and in control. If you haven’t purchased your cross border car insurance to Thailand yet, get your car insurance in Thailand from Drive2Thai for a safer and more worry-free road trip.
