What to do if you have a car accident in the UAE
Here’s a handy guide to know exactly what to if you have a car accident in the UAE
RSA Insurance in the UAE has created this guide advising what drivers should do if they have a car accident in the Emirates:
Given the transient nature of the UAE population, many drivers here unfortunately lack sufficient awareness on how to properly react to car accidents, whether they are personally involved or passing by the scene. Knowing what to do in case you found yourself in a car accident, not only prevent fatal injuries, but also reduce costs and speed up the repair process.
Whilst being part of a traffic accident can be a daunting and complicated experience, there are vital steps every driver should take in order to ensure the safety of all parties involved and resolve the situation efficiently.
Assess your situation
It is of utmost importance to switch on your hazard lights immediately to alert road users and prevent further collisions. Then, make sure to check on other passengers and do not move them if you suspect spinal injuries. Remember to only provide first aid medical care if you are trained to do so after contacting the local emergency medical care.
Stop, think and act
This may seem like the obvious thing to do but it is important to highlight that you do so in an appropriate and safe place. Be cautious of passing traffic and stand away from the roadside. Drivers involved in minor accidents with no serious injuries should move their cars to the side of the road and out of the way of oncoming traffic. Leaving cars parked in the middle of the road or at a busy intersection can result in additional accidents and injuries and could even result in fines.
Contact the traffic police
Do not voluntarily assume liability or take responsibility or sign statements regarding fault or promise to pay for damage at the scene of the accident. Instead, prepare your UAE driver’s license and registration card for the police to check once they reach the accident scene.
Police will document all details and give each party a copy of the accident report. If the accident is not severe or your car was damaged while parked, visit the nearest police station to get a report as a best practice. Hold on tightly to the police report as it would capture specifics about the damages incurred to vehicles which would ultimately support your claims. In any case, try to get witnesses’ contact information in case you need their assistance and testimony.
Contact your insurance provider
It is easier to deal with the insurance process following a car accident if you are aware of your coverage and the settlements your policy provides. After attending to urgent matters, you should immediately contact your insurer to report the accident and inquire on next steps. Remember that the sooner your insurance company knows about the accident, the faster they can resolve your claim.
Contact your breakdown service provider
Once the police has left the scene and you have received their report, contact your breakdown service provider in order to tow the vehicle and start the repairing process. Needless to say, by activating this service at the earliest, you can prevent further accidents as a result of car crash rubbernecking. Also, you are encouraged to contact the road assistance service in case your car suddenly suffers a mechanical failure to ensure road safety for other motorists.
See also
Hot Weather Driving Tips
Rain and fog Driving Tips
Ramadan Driving Tips
Fuel-saving Tips
