Reporting a traffic accident in Dubai is essential for ensuring legal compliance, processing insurance claims, and maintaining smooth traffic flow. The steps to report an accident depend on whether it’s a simple accident, an unknown accident, or a major accident. Here’s a complete guide:
1. Simple Accident Report
A simple accident involves no injuries, fatalities, or damage to public property (e.g., footpaths, buildings, or streetlights). Even if the vehicles are heavily damaged, it is classified as a simple accident if there are no injuries.
How to Report:
- Dubai Police App:
- Log in and select the “Simple Accident Report” option.
- Upload real-time images of the accident (the app automatically detects the GPS location).
- Provide driver and vehicle details for all parties involved.
- Submit the report, and Dubai Police will determine the liable and affected parties.
2. Unknown Accident Report
An unknown accident applies when your vehicle is damaged in a parking area or a hit-and-run scenario where the responsible party is unknown.
How to Report:
- Dubai Police App:
- Select the “Unknown Accident Report” option.
- Upload photos of the damage and provide the estimated date and time of the incident.
- Fee: Filing this report costs 420 AED, while other types of reports are free.
3. Major Accident Report
Major accidents involve injuries, fatalities, or property damage (e.g., damage to infrastructure or public spaces).
How to Report:
- Call Dubai Police: Dial the police helpline immediately to report the accident.
- On-Site Investigation: Police officers will arrive at the location to assess the situation, manage injuries, and file the report directly.
Key Points to Remember
Simple Accident Reports:
- Use the Dubai Police app to report simple accidents online.
- Take backup photos of the accident on your phone, as app photos may not save automatically.
- Avoid disrupting traffic by promptly filing the report online.
- Even if your car is completely damaged but there is no fatality, or property damage, or road blockage, then it is considered as a simple accident.
Unknown Accident Reports:
- These reports are required for hit-and-run or unidentified damage cases.
- Ensure you have clear photos of the damage and pay the required fee (420 AED).
Major Accident Reports:
- Call Dubai Police directly for accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
- Remain at the scene until the police complete their investigation.
General Guidelines After Filing the Report
Once the report is filed, if your vehicle is not drivable or has significant damage, you should arrange for a recovery truck to move the vehicle off the road. If your insurance provider offers roadside assistance or recovery breakdown services, contact them to pick up the vehicle from the accident location.
After the report is submitted, Dubai Police can take up to 48 hours to send the accident report to all parties involved. The liable party may also receive a traffic fine, depending on the circumstances.
It’s important to note that a valid driving license and valid vehicle insurance are necessary for filing an accident report. Always ensure your documents are up to date to avoid delays in the process.
By following the appropriate reporting process, you can ensure compliance with Dubai traffic laws and minimize delays. The Dubai Police app offers a convenient and efficient platform for reporting most accidents, saving time and effort for everyone involved.