Got Into an Accident? Here's What You Should Do to Claim Insurance

Being involved in a road traffic incident (RTI) can be quite stressful, especially if you’re not familiar with the legal system. Similar to the other UAE emirates, Dubai has explicit rules about what to do in the case of an accident and how to file a claim for insurance compensation. This article will go into great detail about what to do right after an accident, what paperwork you’ll need, and how to correctly file a claim with the insurance company to get paid.

Step 1: Keep Calm and Ensure Safety

First, it’s important not to panic. Ensure that you and your passengers are safe. If there are any injuries, call an ambulance immediately by dialing 998. If possible, and there are no serious injuries, move the car to the roadside or a safe location to avoid blocking traffic.

Step 2: Inform the Police About the Incident

In Dubai, reporting any road traffic incident is mandatory, irrespective of the extent of the damage. You can call 999 to report the incident or use the official Dubai Police App, which enables you to register minor accidents online. They will then arrive at the scene, in case of a major accident, evaluate the situation, and draft a report accordingly. This report will indicate who is at fault, which you will then be required to submit to the insurance company for claims.

Step 3: Document the Place of the Incident

While you wait for the police, make sure to take pictures of the following:

• Damage sustained by the vehicle
• General view of the place of the accident
• The car’s number plate
• Road signs or conditions influenced by RTI.

Additionally, share contact information and insurance details with the other participant:

• Full name and Emirates ID details
• Driving license number
• Car registration details
• Insurance company data

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

In Dubai, most insurance companies offer a 24/7 hotline. Reporting the following is necessary:

• Policy number
• Accident details
• Attach a copy of the police report and photos
• Indicate the place where the tow truck needs to be sent if the car is not in motion.

Step 5: Delivery to the Service Center

Your insurance provider will arrange a complimentary tow truck for your immobile vehicle. Once it reaches the garage, the insurance company will assess the damage. If the vehicle is deemed a total loss, you will be compensated based on its market value, including depreciation.

Step 6: Review of Insurance Application

The insurance company must examine the application within several business days. To proceed, please provide:

• A copy of your Emirates ID
• A copy of your driving permit
• A copy of your Mulkiya
• A copy of the report from the police

If the damage results from your actions, the insurance will not cover the costs for your vehicle. This applies only when you are not responsible for the incident and have comprehensive motor insurance coverage.

Step 7: Receiving the Car After Repair

Once the repair work has been completed, you will be notified. The repairs are usually completed within two business weeks, depending on the extent of the damage. Some insurance policies even offer a replacement car while your vehicle is being repaired.

Step 8: Attention to Exclusions

Before you go ahead and submit the documents mentioned above for claims, there are a few things to take into consideration. So long as the accident is not caused due to the following reasons, you can put forward your case. They are:

• You weren’t driving under the influence of alcohol
• Driving without a permit
• Not participating in a street race
• Ignoring traffic rules

Additionally, the insurance company may deny payment if the car registration is overdue or if a technical inspection has not been done.

Additional advice:

• A copy of the policy and Emirates ID should be kept in the car.
• Request from the insurance company for the expedited submission of the application.
• Familiarize yourself with the conditions of No-Claim Bonus (NCB) — a discount for accident-free driving.

What We Think

As long as you meet all the conditions discussed in this article, you are good to go with filing an insurance claim. If you have recently bought a vehicle and need help with motor insurance for your car, feel free to contact a reputable UAE insurance policy company such as Nexus Insurance Brokers.