The Claims Process: What to Do After an Accident in the UAE

Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, knowing what steps to take and how to navigate the claims process can help you handle the situation with confidence. In the UAE, the claims process is structured and regulated, making it essential to follow the correct procedures to ensure your claim is processed efficiently. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take after an accident and how to handle your insurance claim.

1. Prioritize Safety and Move to a Safe Area

Immediately after the accident, ensure the safety of everyone involved. If the accident is minor and there are no injuries, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic. If the accident is more severe, leave the vehicles in place and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

• Check for Injuries: If anyone is injured, call 999 for emergency services. Stay calm and provide assistance where possible until help arrives.

2. Report the Accident to the Police

In the UAE, reporting an accident to the police is mandatory, no matter how minor it may be. The police will assess the situation and issue an official report, which is required to file an insurance claim.

• Minor Accidents: If there are no injuries and the damage is minimal, you can report the accident via the Dubai Police app or Abu Dhabi Police app, or call 999 to file a report.
• Major Accidents: In cases where there are injuries or significant damage, the police will arrive at the scene to assess the situation. Always cooperate and provide the necessary information.

Once the police assess the accident, they will issue a color-coded accident report:

• Green: Indicates you are not at fault.
• Red: Indicates you are at fault.
• White: For cases where no fault is assigned.

This police report is crucial for processing your claim, so make sure to keep a copy.

3. Document the Scene

While waiting for the police to arrive, take the time to document the scene of the accident. Having clear evidence will support your claim and avoid any disputes later on.

• Photographs: Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, including close-up shots of the affected areas, license plates, and the broader scene. Make sure to capture different angles for better clarity.
• Contact Information: Exchange information with the other party involved in the accident, including their name, contact details, vehicle registration number (Mulkiya), and insurance company.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

As soon as the police report is issued, contact your insurance company to notify them about the accident. In the UAE, it is important to report the accident to your insurer within 24 to 48 hours to ensure your claim is valid.

When notifying your insurer, be prepared to provide:

• A copy of the police report
• Photos of the accident scene and damages
• Your vehicle’s registration documents
• A copy of your driver’s license

Many insurance companies in the UAE offer digital platforms or mobile apps for filing claims, which makes the process faster and more convenient. You can submit the police report, photos, and other required documents through the app.

5. Assessing the Damage and Repair Process

After the claim has been filed, your insurance company will arrange an assessment of the damage to your vehicle. Based on the severity of the damage, your insurer will recommend one of the following options:

• Minor Damage: If the damage is minimal, your car will be sent to an approved repair workshop. Your insurance policy will cover the repair costs, minus any applicable excess (deductible). Be sure to check whether the workshop is authorized by your insurer.
• Major Damage or Total Loss: If the damage is extensive and the repair cost exceeds a certain percentage of your car’s market value (typically 50-70%), your vehicle may be declared a total loss. In this case, the insurer will pay you the market value of your vehicle, after deducting any applicable excess. The vehicle will then be transferred to the insurer.

6. Keep Track of Your Claim

Once the claim is filed, it is essential to stay in touch with your insurance company to track the progress. Most insurers in the UAE provide regular updates through their apps or customer service lines. Here are key details to track:

• Repair Timeline: Understand how long the repair process will take. Some insurers may offer a replacement vehicle if repairs are expected to take longer than a few days.
• Total Loss Settlement: If your vehicle is declared a total loss, ensure you receive a fair settlement based on its market value.
• Excess Payment: Confirm the amount you will need to pay as the excess, which is a portion of the repair cost that you are responsible for, based on your policy.

7. Finalizing the Claim

After the repairs are completed or the settlement has been made, you’ll need to finalize the claim with your insurer. Double-check the following before closing the claim:

• Repair Quality: Inspect your vehicle to ensure that the repairs meet your expectations.
• Settlement Agreement: For total loss claims, ensure the settlement amount is accurate and reflects the true market value of your vehicle.

8. Additional Benefits

Some insurance policies in the UAE offer additional benefits, such as:

• Roadside Assistance: If your policy includes roadside assistance, use this service to tow your vehicle to a repair shop.
• Replacement Vehicle: Certain policies may offer a replacement vehicle for the duration of the repairs, ensuring you have continued mobility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Delaying the Claim: Failing to notify your insurer within 48 hours can result in the denial of your claim.
• Inadequate Documentation: Ensure you take comprehensive photos of the accident scene and provide all the necessary information to the police and insurer.
• Not Understanding Policy Details: Be familiar with the terms of your insurance policy, including the amount of excess you are required to pay and any limitations on coverage.

Conclusion

The claims process after an accident in the UAE can be streamlined if you follow the correct procedures and remain proactive throughout. Reporting the accident promptly, providing proper documentation, and understanding your insurance policy will help you navigate the process smoothly. Always work closely with your insurance provider to ensure your claim is processed efficiently, and your vehicle is repaired or settled in a timely manner.

At Savington Insurance, we offer comprehensive coverage to help you stay protected on the road. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the claims process, ensuring you receive the support you need during a stressful time.