How To Report Traffic Accidents In Saudi Arabia

Being involved in a traffic accident is always a tough situation, but if you know the right steps, it can save you a lot of hassle. Whether it’s a small bump or a more serious crash, following the proper procedure in Saudi Arabia will help you avoid unnecessary trouble and ensure your insurance claims go smoothly. This guide will take you through everything you need to know, so you’re prepared when it matters most.

1. Mandatory Car Insurance in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, car insurance is mandatory for all drivers, meaning if you own a vehicle, you are required by law to have insurance. The insurance covers accident-related damages, and if you’re involved in an accident, you must follow specific protocols, especially when one or both parties have insurance.

The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and the General Department of Traffic (Muroor) have set up a service called Najm to manage accidents involving insured vehicles. Established in 2007, Najm handles accident reporting, damage assessment, and insurance claims.

2. What to Do Immediately After an Accident

Whether it’s a minor or serious accident, safety should be your priority. Here are the steps to follow:

Safety Precautions:

• Check for Injuries: Ensure that no one is injured. If someone is hurt, contact emergency services immediately (997).
• Move to a Safe Spot: If the accident is minor and there are no injuries, move the vehicle to a safe location to avoid disrupting traffic. However, if the accident is more severe, wait for authorities to arrive.
• Turn Off the Engine & Activate Hazard Lights: Turn off your vehicle’s engine and switch on the hazard lights to signal to other drivers.
• Use a Reflective Triangle: Place a reflective triangle behind your vehicle to warn other road users, ensuring it’s placed far enough away to provide sufficient warning.

Inform Najm:

If at least one vehicle involved in the accident is insured, contact Najm for assistance. Najm can be reached via:

• Phone: Call Najm at 920000560
• Najm App: Available on both Apple and Android devices, the app allows you to report accidents, track case progress, and manage your insurance claim.

Once contacted, Najm will send a surveyor to the accident scene to assess the damages and issue a report, which you’ll need for your insurance claim.

3. Documenting the Scene

Before the Najm surveyor arrives, you’ll need to document the accident. Here’s how:

• Take Photos: Capture images of the accident from different angles, making sure to include all vehicles involved and any relevant road signs or signals.
• Prepare Your Documents: Have your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance policy ready for verification.
• Provide a Clear Account: When speaking to the Najm surveyor, explain how the accident occurred in a clear and factual manner.

Once your report is filed, you will receive an SMS notification with the case details. You can track the progress of your claim through the Najm app, and once the official report is issued, it will be sent to your insurance company for processing.

4. Handling Serious Accidents or Uninsured Vehicles

If the accident involves serious injuries, extensive vehicle damage, or if neither vehicle is insured, you must take different steps. Here’s what to do:

• Contact Muroor: Call the General Department of Traffic (Muroor) at 993 to report the accident.
• Emergency Services: If there are any injuries, call the emergency hotline 997 for immediate medical assistance.
• Follow Safety Procedures: As with minor accidents, ensure that you and others are safe. Follow the same steps to turn on hazard lights, use reflective triangles, and move the vehicle if possible.
• Wait for Authorities: Do not attempt to leave the accident scene before authorities arrive, as this could result in legal consequences.

5. Key Safety Tips for Drivers in Saudi Arabia

• Stay at the Scene: Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it to the authorities is illegal and may result in severe fines or penalties.
• Be Prepared: Always carry a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and a reflective triangle in your vehicle.
• Handling Fires: In the event of a vehicle fire, stop the car immediately, turn off the engine, and exit the vehicle. Use a fire extinguisher, not water, to put out the flames.
• Be Aware of Road Conditions: Saudi Arabia experiences varied weather conditions, such as sandstorms and heavy rain, which can reduce visibility. Drive carefully during such events to avoid accidents.

6. What Happens After the Accident?

Once Muroor permit is issued, the insurance claim process will begin. If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will cover both the damages to your vehicle and any third-party claims. However, if you only have third-party insurance, it will cover the other driver’s damages, while you will need to pay for your own.

It’s also important to keep a record of all documents related to the accident, including the Najm report, repair receipts, and communication with your insurance company. This will help in the event of disputes or delays in processing the claim.

7. Recent Updates and Changes

As of 2024, Najm has made significant updates to its accident reporting procedures, streamlining the process through its app. Drivers are encouraged to use the Najm app not only for reporting accidents but also for tracking their claim’s progress in real-time. Additionally, the app offers an interactive map to check the nearest Najm branch or accident reporting centers.

In summary, knowing the right steps to take after a traffic accident in Saudi Arabia can help you stay safe, avoid legal issues, and handle insurance claims smoothly. Following the procedures ensures a quicker resolution and peace of mind.