Steps for Handling Traffic Accidents in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive 2026 Guide
Traffic accidents are something no one wishes for, but if you get into an accident while in Saudi Arabia, you need to know exactly what to do. Here is a complete guide to the procedures for handling traffic accidents in Saudi Arabia, step by step.
First: Ensure Your Safety
As soon as the accident occurs, check on yourself and anyone with you in the car. If there are injuries, immediately call Emergency Services (997) for an ambulance. Do not move the injured unless there is a significant danger, such as a fire or fuel leak, to avoid causing more severe injuries.
Second: Notify Traffic Police (993)
Even if the accident is minor, it is best to notify Traffic Police at number 993. An officer will come to document the accident and provide you with an Accident Report. This report is crucial for insurance and official authorities. Without the report, you cannot file an insurance claim or have the car repaired at the company’s expense.
Third: Do Not Move the Vehicles
Do not move your vehicle from the accident scene until the traffic police arrive, document the location, and draw a diagram. Moving the vehicle can be considered tampering with evidence, which harms the investigation. If the accident is minor and on a busy road, some traffic officers may ask you to photograph the scene and move the vehicle to the side to alleviate congestion.
Fourth: Photography and Documentation
Photograph everything from different angles: the position of the vehicles, the damage, traffic signs, and the other party’s license plate. Photography is important for documenting the accident, especially if there is a dispute over liability.
Fifth: Required Information
Obtain the other party’s information: name, ID number, license plate number, insurance number, and mobile phone number. You must also obtain the Accident Report Number from the traffic police to follow up with the insurance company.
Sixth: Notify Your Insurance Company
After obtaining the accident report, contact your insurance company within 24 hours. They will guide you to approved repair shops or send a representative to assess the damage. With some insurance companies, you can file a claim electronically through the company’s app without needing to visit an office.
What to Do if the Accident is Minor with Light Damage?
If the accident is minor (scratches or light bumps) and all parties agree on liability, you can use the “Accident Verification” service in the Absher or Tawakkalna apps. Fill in the data, photograph the damage, and receive an electronic accident report without wasting time waiting for the traffic police. However, do not use this method unless you are certain the accident is minor.
What to Do if There Are Injuries?
If there are injuries, the situation is completely different. Never leave the accident scene, as leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries is considered a crime with severe penalties. Call the ambulance (997) and traffic police (993), and wait for the relevant authorities. Concealing an accident involving injuries exposes you to significant legal penalties.
How to Inquire About an Accident Report?
You can inquire about an accident report via the Absher platform:
- Log in to Absher Individual
- Select Inquiries → Accident Report Inquiry
- Enter the accident report number and date
- The full report will be displayed
You can also inquire about the accident via the Tawakkalna app under Traffic Services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I have to notify the traffic police if the accident is very minor?
A: If there are injuries, you must notify them. For very minor damage, if you agree with the other party, you can use the Accident Verification service in Absher. However, it is always best to notify them for official documentation.
Q: How long does it take to issue an accident report?
A: Normally, the report is issued within 24 hours of the report being filed. You can follow up via Absher.
Q: Can I file an insurance claim without a traffic police report?
A: In most cases, a traffic police report is required to file a claim. However, some insurance companies accept the electronic accident report from Absher for minor accidents.
Q: What is the penalty for fleeing the sceneThe incident?
\nA: The penalty is severe: a fine of up to 40,000 riyals and/or imprisonment. If there are injuries, the penalty is more severe.
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Q: Can a foreigner (resident) report an accident?
\nA: Any person in Saudi Arabia can report an accident, whether Saudi or a resident. The procedures are the same.
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Q: What should I do if the other party does not have insurance?
\nA: You must report it to the Traffic Department immediately. Driving without insurance is a violation in Saudi Arabia, and the Traffic Department will handle the other party legally. Your insurance may cover the damages through the Injured Protection Fund in some cases.
