https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/claims-motor-car-accident-compensation-overseas-malaysia-cna-explains-4423246

Is it true that lawyers' fees will eclipse the final sum?

A Singaporean man who suffered permanent brain injuries after this accident in Malaysia was awarded S$4.7 million (US$3.5 million) in damages by a Singapore court. (Photo: Courtesy of Mdm Janet Fung Wui Mang)

@LydiaLamCNA

(Updated: 23 Jun 2024 10:10AM)

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SINGAPORE: A Singaporean man who suffered permanent brain injuries from a car chain collision in Malaysia was awarded S$4.7 million (US$3.5 million) in damages by Singapore's High Court earlier in June.

CNA spoke to lawyers to answer commonly asked questions on how victims of motor accidents can obtain compensation via lawsuits for damages.

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What kinds of damages can be claimed?

There are typically four main components in death or injury claims, said Mr Raj Singh Shergill, managing partner at the Lee Shergill law firm.

These are:

• General damages comprising the likes of pain and suffering, loss of future income and future medical expenses.
• Special damages compensating for loss and expenses that have already occurred by the time damages are assessed. These include medical and transport expenses, as well as pre-trial loss of income.
• Interest on the damages for pain and suffering and loss of amenities - at 5.33 per cent per annum from the date proceedings are commenced. There is also interest on special damages at 2.67 per cent per annum, from the date of accident. Once judgment is granted, the entire judgment sum carries interest at 5.33 per cent per annum until full payment is made.
• A contribution to costs and disbursements.

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