The United Arab Emirates is one such country where road-accident ratio is exceptionally high with fewer adherence to traffic rules and speed limits often leading to road mishaps. It is an unfortunate aspect of living here that you should be prepared on how to deal with a car crash. Here are a few tips knowing which would only help you save time and trouble.
Steps to Follow in case of Car Crash
1- First, you must assess the magnitude of the accident. Is the accident minor or major? If someone is hurt, call the ambulance (999) immediately. If it is a minor accident, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid being hit by other motorist and to avoid traffic congestion while waiting, otherwise, you might be fined Dh100 by the traffic police. If both cars sustain a minor damage then both the drivers may be advised to drive to the nearest police station to complete the required formalities.
2- Once you call 999 and report the accident, the traffic police will be dispatched to the location to evaluate the accident. As the police assess the situation, a copy of the accident forms are given to both the drivers involved in the accident.
3- Police officers will immediately assess the situation and as for your registration and car insurance. If you were at fault you will receive the pink slip and a AED 500 ( $ 137) fine . If you receive the green form from the Police, it means you are not at fault and are free to walk away with no fine.
4- If there was any serious injuries or death, both driver are asked to go to the police station and possibly face jail time, subject to the nature of the accident. In case there were fatal injuries, you may be required to pay blood money or Diya amounting to a minimum fine of AED 200,000 ( $ 54,500 ) to the deceased’s family.
5- After you receive the pink form from the police, immediately notify your insurance company, and do it as soon as possible. The insurance company will later advice you what to do next and where to repair your vehicle. Of course, and if you are in fault you have to pay the deductible on your insurance if applicable.
Dos and don’ts
– Make sure to pull on the side of the road and stay safe when possible.
– Do not give your driving license or car registration to anyone other than the police, as only they are authorised to ask for it.
– Do not react unpleasantly as accidents are common and can happen to anybody.
– If there are minor damages, do not insist on money for repairs rather go about your business as usual and leave the incident behind you.
– In case the other driver leaves before the police arrive, make sure to note down their car’s number plate, make and model.
– If moving the vehicles out of the way makes it difficult to assess who is at fault, then it is better to leave things the way they are.
– Always carry your driver’s license and vehicle registration card with you.