- Alert the Authorities
- Wait for Help
- Obtain the Police Report
- Notify the Insurer
- Follow-up on the Claim
- FAQs
Dubai’s world-class infrastructure and strict enforcement of traffic laws are designed to minimise accidents and ensure road safety. However, when accidents do occur, knowing what to do immediately after is crucial. Dubai has strict traffic laws and failing to follow the proper procedure can result in significant penalties. So dive in for a step-by-step breakdown of what to do in case of a car accident in Dubai.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Dubai
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Dubai can be scary, especially when dealing with legal issues and car insurance claims. However, following the appropriate steps ensures that the situation is handled efficiently.
Dive in for a detailed overview of how to navigate the Dubai car accident legal process.
Ensure Safety and Alert the Authorities
After a car accident, the priority must be to ensure the safety of all parties involved. If the vehicle can be moved, it should be carefully relocated to the side of the road to prevent further disruption. In Dubai, it is mandatory to report every accident, regardless of its severity, to the police. Dial the emergency number 999 for accidents involving injuries, while minor incidents can be reported via 901 or the Dubai Police app.
It is important to remain at the scene of the accident until authorities arrive. Some things you should not do after an accident include running away from the scene or failing to call the police. Fleeing the scene, even in the case of a minor collision, can result in severe penalties. This includes a fine of AED 500, black points and possible vehicle impoundment.
Wait For Help to Arrive
Following the accident, it may be necessary to wait for towing services, especially if the vehicle is not in the condition to drive. In some cases, Dubai police will arrange for the vehicle to be towed to a designated repair facility. If the car can be driven, the driver may be allowed to take the vehicle to an approved insurance garage for assessment.
Obtain The Full Police Report
Once the accident is reported, the police will arrive at the scene of the accident. After assessing the scene and determining fault, they will issue a police report. One must know how to file an accident report in Dubai as it is a critical document required for insurance claims and vehicle repairs. The police report comes in three variations.
- A green report is issued when the other party is at fault.
- A red report is issued if the driver is at fault.
- A white report is applicable when neither party is at fault or when disputes arise.
The police will also collect all necessary documents including the driver’s licence, vehicle registration (mulkiya), Emirates ID and insurance details for the report. Failure to report an accident or cooperate with the police may result in penalties.
Notify the Insurance Company
The next step is to notify the insurance company. Most car insurance in Dubai requires notification within 24 hours of the incident to start the claims process; however, this period may vary. Failure to notify the insurer within the required time frame may lead to claim rejection.
The police report needs to be submitted to the insurance company. The insurer may also require some additional information such as pictures of the damage, a description of the incident and the contact information of the other parties involved. Additionally, driving without insurance in the UAE incurs a fine of AED 500, along with four black points and 7 days of vehicle confiscation.
Follow-up on the Claim and Repair Process
The repair process typically begins with an assessment at an insurance-approved garage. Depending on the fault determined by the police report, the insurance company of the party that is at fault will bear the cost of repairs. Car owners with comprehensive insurance in Dubai will not have to worry about repairs as they will be covered regardless of cost. Whereas, those with third-party insurance will have repairs covered only if the other driver is deemed at fault.
Throughout the process, it is recommended to stay in contact with the insurance company and the repair shop to monitor the status of repairs. Moreover, some insurance policies may provide a replacement vehicle during the repair period depending on the coverage plan.
FAQs
What happens if I leave the scene of a minor accident in Dubai?
Leaving the scene of a minor accident is illegal in Dubai. The driver could face a fine of AED 500, 8 black points and vehicle confiscation.
Can I repair my car without a police report?
No, a police report is mandatory for any repair or insurance claim in Dubai.
How long do I have to file a claim with my insurer?
Most insurance policies require policyholders to report the accident within 24 hours. This time period may vary depending on the insurer and the policy.
Getting in a car accident can be a troublesome experience. However, following the proper procedures can ensure the safety and legal standing of all parties involved. Always make sure to alert the authorities, obtain a Dubai police report and inform the insurer immediately. With this comprehensive overview, we hope you will know what to do after a car accident in Dubai.
If the vehicle is beyond repair after a tragic accident, it is advisable to change the car to avoid future issues. You can look through used cars for sale in Dubai to find a vehicle that fits into your budget and aligns with your needs.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on car issues and legal troubles.
Cover image credits: Shutterstock image contributor – DigitalPen
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