Being involved in a car accident in the UAE can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, it is essential to remain calm and take specific steps to ensure your safety, and the safety of others involved, and to comply with the laws and regulations of the UAE. Here's what you must do in a car accident in the UAE:
Check for Injuries:
The priority after a car accident is to check for injuries, both for yourself and for any passengers in your vehicle. If anyone is injured, call for medical assistance immediately by dialing 999 (the UAE emergency number).
Move to a Safe Location:
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic, especially if the accident is minor and the vehicles are causing an obstruction. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Call the Police:
In the UAE, it is a legal requirement to report all car accidents to the police, regardless of the severity. Call the police emergency number (999) to report the accident and wait for them to arrive at the scene.
Exchange Information:
Exchange relevant information with the other drivers involved in the accident, including names, contact numbers, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance details. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses present at the scene.
Document the Scene:
If it is safe to do so, take pictures of the accident scene, the damage to the vehicles, and the surrounding area. These photographs can be valuable evidence in case of insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company:
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, providing them with all the necessary details and documentation.
Obtain a Police Report:
Once the police arrive at the scene, they will conduct an investigation and create an official police report. Request a copy of the report, as it is essential for filing insurance claims and resolving any legal issues that may arise.
Adhere to Traffic Laws:
While waiting for the police and during the investigation, follow all traffic rules and cooperate with the authorities. Avoid making any statements that could imply fault or liability.
Seek Legal Advice (If Necessary):
If the accident results in significant injuries or property damage, or if there are liability disputes, consider seeking legal advice from an experienced car accident attorney to protect your rights and interests.
Remember, the UAE has strict laws concerning car accidents, and failure to follow proper procedures can result in penalties or complications when making insurance claims or resolving disputes. Taking these steps can help ensure a smoother process after a car accident in the UAE and protect your legal rights.
In the UAE, reporting a car accident is a legal requirement, and it is essential to follow the proper procedures to comply with the law and ensure a smooth process. Here's how to report a car accident in Dubai or the UAE:
Ensure Safety:
Check for injuries and move to a safe location, if possible, to avoid obstructing traffic and prevent further accidents.
Call the Police:
Dial the UAE emergency number, 999, to report the accident and request police assistance. In Dubai, you can also call the Dubai Police Call Center at 901.
Provide Details
Cooperate with the police and provide all necessary details about the accident, including your name, contact information, vehicle registration, and insurance details.
Obtain a Police Report:
After investigating the scene, the police will create an official accident report. Request a copy of the report for insurance purposes and any potential legal proceedings.
Report to Your Insurance Company:
Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide them with all the relevant details and documentation.
The Dubai Police App provides a convenient way to report minor car accidents without the need for police presence. Follow these steps to report a minor accident using the app:
Download the App:
Install the "Dubai Police - أمان" app on your smartphone from the respective app store.
Register and Login:
Create an account or log in to the app using your UAE mobile number.
Report Minor Accident:
Access the "Report Minor Accident" section within the app and provide all necessary details, including the location, vehicles involved, and other relevant information.
Capture Photos:
Use the app's built-in camera to take pictures of the accident scene and the vehicle’s damage.
Receive the Report:
Once you submit the report, you will receive a digital copy of the accident report via email or through the app.
In Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates, reporting minor accidents can also be done through smartphone apps, such as the "AD Police" app in Abu Dhabi. Similar to the Dubai Police App, these apps allow you to report minor accidents online and receive a digital copy of the accident report.
In Sharjah, the Rafid service is available for reporting and documenting accidents. Through the Rafid service, you can report an accident to the Sharjah Police, and they will provide you with an accident report for insurance purposes and any legal requirements.
Remember, promptly reporting a car accident and following the proper procedures are essential for legal compliance and ensuring a smooth process for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Leaving the Scene:
Leaving the scene of an accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage, is illegal and can result in severe penalties. Always stay at the scene and call the police to report the accident.
Admitting Fault:
Avoid admitting fault or taking blame for the accident, even if you believe you may be partially responsible. Statements made at the scene can be used against you later, and fault determination is best left to the authorities and insurance companies.
Not Calling the Police:
Regardless of the accident's severity, always call the police and report the incident. Having an official police report is essential for insurance claims and legal purposes.
Neglecting Medical Attention:
If you or anyone involved in the accident sustains injuries, seek medical attention promptly. Not seeking medical care immediately can worsen injuries and hinder insurance claims later on.
Not Exchanging Information:
Always exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident, including names, contact numbers, vehicle registration, and insurance details. Also, gather contact information from witnesses if available.
Delaying Reporting to Insurance:
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Delaying the reporting may result in complications with your claim.
Not Documenting the Scene:
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and relevant road conditions. These photographs serve as valuable evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Settling Without Legal Advice:
Refrain from accepting or offering settlements without seeking legal advice. An attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation for damages and injuries.
Discussing the Accident on Social Media:
Avoid discussing the accident on social media platforms. Information shared publicly can be used against you, affecting your case negatively.
Neglecting Witness Information:
If there are witnesses at the scene, gather their contact information. Their testimonies can be crucial in determining liability and fault.
In the unfortunate event of a death caused by a car or road accident in the UAE, the situation becomes more complex, and there are specific actions to take:
Call Emergency Services:
Immediately call the police and request an ambulance for medical assistance.
Stay at the Scene:
Do not leave the scene until the police arrive and complete their investigation.
Notify the Police:
Report the accident to the police, providing all necessary details about the incident.
Seek Legal Advice:
In cases involving fatalities, it is crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who can guide you through the legal process and provide support during this difficult time.
Notify the Embassy:
If the victim is a foreign national, inform the relevant embassy or consulate.
Support the Investigation:
Cooperate fully with the police and provide all necessary information for their investigation.
Notify Your Insurance Company:
Inform your insurance company about the accident and the resulting fatality to initiate any required procedures.
Dealing with a car accident involving fatalities is emotionally distressing, and legal complexities arise. Seeking professional guidance and support can help ensure your rights are protected and that the case is handled appropriately.
When you sustain personal injuries in a car accident, you may be entitled to claim compensation for the damages you have suffered. Personal injury claims in car accidents aim to provide financial support to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses resulting from the accident. The process of calculating compensation varies depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the jurisdiction's laws. Here are the common factors considered in determining the amount of compensation for personal injuries in car accident cases:
Medical Expenses:
The cost of medical treatment for your injuries, including hospital bills, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care, is a crucial factor in calculating compensation.
Lost Wages:
If your injuries cause you to miss work or result in a reduced earning capacity, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning potential.
Pain and Suffering:
Compensation may be awarded for the physical pain and emotional suffering you experienced due to the injuries and their impact on your daily life.
Permanent Disabilities:
If the car accident results in permanent disabilities or long-term impairments, you may be entitled to compensation for the diminished quality of life and loss of enjoyment.
Property Damage:
In addition to personal injuries, you may also claim compensation for property damage to your vehicle or other personal belongings in the car.
Extent of Liability:
The degree of fault assigned to each party involved in the accident will influence the amount of compensation. In comparative negligence states, compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to the injured party.
Insurance Coverage:
The insurance policies of the involved parties play a significant role in determining the available compensation.
Legal Representation:
Having experienced legal representation can significantly impact the amount of compensation you receive. Skilled personal injury attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies and maximize your claim's value.
Car accidents can lead to various types of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Some common types of injuries in car accident cases include:
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries:
Whiplash is a common injury caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck during a collision. Soft tissue injuries may involve strains, sprains, or bruising to muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
Broken Bones and Fractures:
The impact of a car accident can cause fractures and broken bones, which may require extensive medical treatment and recovery.
Head and Brain Injuries:
Car accidents can result in concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and other head injuries, which may have long-term consequences.
Spinal Cord Injuries:
Severe car accidents can lead to spinal cord injuries, potentially causing paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
Internal Injuries:
The force of a car accident can cause internal injuries, such as internal bleeding or organ damage, which require immediate medical attention.
Cuts, Bruises, and Abrasions:
Superficial injuries like cuts, bruises, and abrasions are common in car accidents and can range from minor to severe.
Emotional Distress :
Car accidents can cause emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
It's crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a car accident, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not manifest immediately and could worsen without proper medical evaluation and treatment. Additionally, consulting a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Contacting a specialist for a personal accident, such as a personal injury attorney, is essential for several reasons:
Expertise and Knowledge:
Personal accident specialists have in-depth knowledge and expertise in handling cases related to personal injuries and accidents. They understand the complexities of personal injury laws and are familiar with the legal processes involved.
Maximizing Compensation:
A specialist attorney can assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses. They work to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Navigating Legal Procedures:
Legal procedures can be overwhelming for someone without legal experience. A specialist attorney can guide you through the process, handle paperwork, and represent you in negotiations or in court if necessary.
Investigating the Accident:
A personal accident specialist will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a strong case to support your claim.
Dealing with Insurance Companies:
Insurance companies may try to offer a low settlement or deny your claim altogether. A specialist attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
Litigation Experience:
If your case goes to trial, a specialist attorney has experience in civil litigation and knows how to present your case effectively in court.
The lawyer's fee for a civil case, personal injury claim, or compensation case varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the attorney's experience, and the prevailing legal practices in the jurisdiction. There are generally three types of fee arrangements that lawyers may use:
Contingency Fee:
Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. The attorney's fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or court award, often ranging from 33% to 40% of the total amount recovered.
Hourly Fee:
Some attorneys may charge an hourly fee for their services. In this case, you will be billed for the time the attorney spends working on your case, regardless of the outcome. Hourly rates can vary depending on the attorney's experience and location.
Flat Fee:
For straightforward cases or specific legal services, some attorneys may charge a flat fee. This means you pay a predetermined amount for the attorney's services, regardless of the outcome.
It's essential to discuss the fee structure with the attorney during your initial consultation. Make sure you understand the terms of the fee agreement and any additional costs that may arise during the legal process.
As a specialized personal accident law firm, we focus on providing dedicated legal representation to individuals who have suffered injuries and losses due to accidents and personal injuries. Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in personal injury laws and has a successful track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We are committed to protecting your rights, maximizing your compensation, and guiding you through every step of the legal process with care and expertise.
At UAE Lawyers, we are more than just a legal practice - we are a team of dedicated professionals driven by the core values of justice, integrity, and compassion.