SINGAPORE, 2025-06-20 11:11:00
If you’re in a fender bender, you might be focused on your car, but what if an animal is involved? Whether it’s a pet or a wild creature, the rules change, and you need to know what to do. Here’s a breakdown of what you should keep in mind.
Learn what to do if you’re in an accident involving an animal. From legal requirements to helping injured creatures,here’s what you need to know.
- If there are serious injuries or damage, don’t move anything unless police tell you to.
- Capture evidence with photos and videos, and note the exact location.
- If it’s safe, move an animal posing a hazard, or else, call for help.
In 2024,the SPCA investigated 15 hit-and-run cases involving animals,highlighting the frequency of these incidents.
If an accident involves a serious injury to a person, or significant damage to a vehicle or structure, the involved vehicles and any evidence should remain untouched unless directed by the police. The exception is if it’s necessary to rescue people or animals, or to prevent further hazards; than, vehicles or their parts may be moved only as far as necessary.
Ms. Aarthi sankar, executive director of the SPCA, said that motorists should capture potential evidence. “Take clear photos and videos with timestamps, and by documenting the exact address of the location,” she advised.
Legal Note: Failure to report an accident involving a pet can result in fines. Ensure you follow NParks guidelines.
How common Are These accidents?
While the SPCA investigated 15 hit-and-run cases in 2024, this is just a fraction of total animal-related accidents, as many incidents are reported to other groups or go unreported. The SPCA said it could not provide data from other years.
In 2024, at least two sambar deer died on roads. Wildlife groups have also noted a rise in roadkill involving Sunda pangolins. One animal hospital reported more than 40 pangolins killed or injured yearly between 2021 and 2023, compared to around 20 per year from 2015 to 2020.
Over three years, the NEA received an average of 1,700 reports annually about dead animals and birds sighted. The public is advised to report any sightings of animal carcasses via the myENV or OneService app.
Report Dead Animals: Use the myENV or OneService app to report animal carcasses to the NEA.
Road Hazards and Animals
The authorities have established guidelines for dealing with animals on the road. There is no specific size standard for what constitutes a road hazard.
Motorists should consider factors like traffic volume, the animal’s position, and the speed limit. If an animal obstructs the road or forces other drivers to take evasive action, it should be moved, but only if it is indeed safe to do so.
Moving an Animal
If an injured animal or carcass poses a safety risk, drivers may move it to safety if it is safe. Otherwise, call the police for assistance.
ACRES advises against touching or handling certain animals. “Animals like wild pigs, otters and sambar deer who are injured can be defensive and scared and we suggest for (the) public not to handle them,” said the association. contact the society or nparks for help.
Who to Call:
– Police: For immediate assistance and road safety.
– ACRES/NParks: For injured wildlife.
What if It’s a Pet?
If the animal is likely a pet, drivers must inform the owner of the accident, according to NParks. Drivers should note if the animal has any collars, tags, or identifying features and take photos if possible.
This facts should be sent to NParks so that thay can help reunite the pet with its owner. Also, note the accident location, and consider posting on Facebook pages for lost and found pets, advised ACRES.
Community Cats and Accidents: Addressing Concerns
The issue of animal-related incidents on Singapore roads extends beyond pets and wildlife. Community cats, beloved by many, are also vulnerable.
Recent cases, such as the deaths of community cats in Punggol and Yishun, have raised concerns about animal welfare [[1]], [[3]]. National Parks Board (NParks) has assessed that these incidents were likely caused by vehicle accidents, not intentional acts of cruelty [[2]].
What should you do if you accidentally hit a community cat? Motorists should treat these incidents wiht the same care as those involving pets or other animals, following the established guidelines. You are required to report the accident [[2]].
The primary concern is the cat’s welfare and the adherence to legal obligations.
Key Considerations for Community Cat incidents
Dealing with community cat accidents requires a slightly different approach than pets or wildlife, but several steps remain the same.
- Safety First: Ensure your safety and that of other road users.
- Assess the Scene: Note the cat’s condition and location.Is it safe?
- Call for Help: Contact NParks and, if necessary, the police.
- Document the Scene: Capture photos and videos,recording the location.
- Provide Facts: If the cat is injured or deceased, collect any identifying markers such as tags or collars.
- stay on Scene: Remain at the location until help arrives and you’re instructed to leave.
Many community cats are cared for by dedicated volunteers. Contact relevant cat welfare groups to alert them, too.
Why are Community Cats at Risk?
Community cats often live near roads, making them vulnerable to accidents. Additionally, these cats face the same road hazards as any other at risk of harm [[2]].
Impact of Community Cat Accidents
Accidents involving community cats impact the community. The loss of a community cat is a loss for those who care for it and the wider public.
Following proper procedures ensures respect for the animal and helps the local community.
FAQs About Community Cat Accidents
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding community cat incidents:
Q: What if the cat is injured, but still moving?
A: Assess the scene carefully. If it is safe, call for help the police and/or ACRES/NParks. Do not attempt to move or handle the cat unless instructed by authorities.
Q: What if the cat is already dead?
A: Contact the authorities and follow their instructions.Report any identifying features of the dead cat.
Q: Do I have to report a hit-and-run involving a community cat?
A: Yes, just as with pets. Reporting the accident will help authorities, and community cat caregivers.
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