How to claim insurance for car accident in Abu Dhabi

If you're driving in Abu Dhabi and find yourself in a road collision, you should be aware of how to proceed so that your car insurance claim is processed smoothly and quickly. This is your all-in-one guide to making an effective claim with your insurer in Abu Dhabi.

1. Put Safety and Medical Assistance First

As soon as there is an accident, first check for injuries. If there are injuries, call 998 to get an ambulance. Drive to the side of the road if possible, and ensure hazard lights are activated in order to avoid other accidents. Your safety and others' safety is always your priority.

2. Call the Police

All road accidents, no matter how minor, have to be reported in the UAE to the police. Minor accidents can be reported through 999 which is a toll-free number or through the Abu Dhabi Police app. A policeman would take the report at the site or a report would be taken online. You will have a police report that is required for your insurance claim.

⚠️ Note: In the absence of the police report, no UAE insurance company will pay out your claim.

3. Photograph the Scene

Make good photographs of:

The damage to all vehicles involved

License plates

Road conditions or signs

Visible wounds (if any)

These photographic proofs can be helpful in substantiating your claim during investigation.

4. Call Your Insurance Provider

Contact your insurance company's customer service or roadside assistance number instantly. Most companies have mobile apps through which you can file a claim online. Provide:

The police report number

Photographs of the accident

Details of what happened

Your policy number

If your policy has roadside assistance, they will also arrange to tow your car to an endorsed garage or service center.

5. Give Documents Required

You will typically be required to provide:

A photocopy of Emirates ID and driving license

Vehicle registration (Mulkiya)

Original police report

Number of insurance policy

Damage photos

Make sure all documents are readable.

6. Get Your Vehicle Checked

The vehicle damage will be checked by the insurance company or the approved garage. As per the checkup and your policy (third-party or comprehensive), your insurer will either:

Approve repair at a network garage

Pay a cash settlement

Declare the vehicle a total loss (in extreme circumstances)

7. Repair Process and Follow-up

If your claim is accepted:

The garage will carry out repairs as approved by the insurer.

You may be supplied with a courtesy car subject to your policy.

The garage will notify you when your vehicle is available for collection.

In the event of any delay or dispute, contact your insurance representative for clarification.

8. Things to Remember

Comprehensive insurance will generally cover both parties regardless of fault.

Third-party insurance will only pay the other driver in the event that you are at fault.

You might be asked to pay an excess fee depending on your policy terms.

In case you were not at fault in the accident, your insurance company can claim the cost from the other party's policy.

Conclusion

While car accidents are unwanted, being informed can help you handle the situation with confidence. From reporting the accident to the authorities to calling your insurer and getting your car repaired, each step goes a long way in helping your claim settle quickly and accurately. Keep your documents in readiness, act assertively, and also speak openly with your insurer.

As an extra precaution, always review your policy conditions and check what is covered. Wherever you travel in Abu Dhabi or the rest of the UAE, being prepared can be the key to peace of mind.