What To Do in the First 24 Hours After a Car Incident
A car incident can shake anyone, even if the damage is minor. In the UAE, where traffic is fast, highways are busy, and rules are strict, knowing what to do in the first 24 hours can save you money, stress and legal trouble. Many drivers panic because they don’t have a step-by-step plan. This guide helps you stay calm, act smart and handle your next steps with confidence.
Below is a clear, friendly and practical breakdown of what you should do right after the incident and how to manage the next day without making common mistakes.
17 Important Things to do After a Car Incident
The following steps can be very helpful in case of a car incident.
1. Stay Calm and Move to Safety
The first minute after an impact feels strange. Your mind races. Your hands shake. This is normal. Take a deep breath and check if anyone with you is hurt.
If your car is blocking the road, move it to the side only if it is safe to do so. The UAE police encourage drivers to clear the road to avoid further accidents. If the car cannot move, turn on your hazard lights and stand at a safe distance.
Safety always comes first.
2. Call the Police Immediately
In the UAE, you must report every car accident, even small ones. Never exchange private settlements on the spot. This can lead to fines later.
Call 999 and tell them:
- Location
- Number of vehicles
- If anyone is hurt
Police will arrive and inspect the situation. They will check documents, take notes and issue the official accident report, known as the Police Report. You need this to proceed with repairs or insurance claims.
For minor incidents, you can also use apps like Abu Dhabi Police, Dubai Police or Ras Al Khaimah Police for quick processing.
3. Capture Photos and Videos
Before the police arrive, document the scene. This helps you later when dealing with your insurer.
Take clear photos of:
- Damage to your vehicle
- Damage to other vehicles
- Position of all vehicles
- Skid marks
- Traffic signals or road signs nearby
Record videos if possible. This protects you in case there is any disagreement later.
4. Exchange Basic Information
You don’t need to argue or explain too much. Just keep it calm and polite.
Exchange:
- Name
- Emirates ID
- Phone number
- Car plate number
- Insurance company
Avoid talking about who caused the accident. Let the police handle that part.
5. Get the Police Report and Check It Carefully
Once the police issue the report, they will mark it either:
- Green – you are not at fault
- Red – you are at fault
- Grey – both drivers share fault
Check all details like plate number, car type and driver name. If anything is wrong, request correction immediately.
Your repair shop and insurance company will not accept wrong information.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company
Do this within the first few hours. Most insurers in the UAE have 24-hour helplines.
They will guide you on the next steps, which normally include:
- Uploading the police report
- Sharing photos
- Applying for a repair approval
- Choosing an approved workshop
Some insurers provide free towing if your car cannot move.
7. Remove Personal Items and Secure Valuables
Before your car goes to the workshop or the recovery truck arrives, remove:
- Phone
- Wallet
- Bags
- Documents
- Toll tags
- Sunglasses
- Tools
- Child seats
Cars move through multiple hands in the next 24 hours. Protect yourself by emptying everything.
8. Arrange Safe Transport
Don’t drive a damaged car, even if it still moves. A loose part or hidden engine issue can create more problems.
Use:
- A friend or family member
- A taxi
- Careem / Uber
If your insurance includes optional accident transport support, claim it.
9. Choose the Right Workshop
Drivers often rush to the nearest garage, but this can cause delays and poor repair quality.
Instead:
- Ask your insurer for approved workshops.
- Check if you have agency repair (dealer repair) or non-agency repair.
- Confirm estimated repair time and parts availability.
A good workshop explains everything clearly and sends progress updates.
10. Keep All Documents in One Place
Create a folder and store:
- Police report
- Insurance policy
- Claim number
- Workshop approval message
- Repair estimate
This keeps the process smooth and prevents delays.
11. Monitor Your Claim Status
Most UAE insurance companies offer online claim portals. Check it daily. Follow up if approval is slow or parts are delayed. A simple call often speeds things up.
12. Get Medical Check-Up If You Feel Pain
Some injuries appear hours later, such as:
- Back pain
- Neck stiffness
- Shoulder strain
- Headache
Visit a clinic. Your insurance may cover medical treatment depending on your policy. Health comes first.
13. Update Your RTA/Traffic App If Needed
If any fines were applied or if the police report affects your record, you may see updates in:
- RTA Dubai
- TAMM (Abu Dhabi)
- Ras Al Khaimah Police app
Keep an eye on these platforms.
14. Notify Your Fleet Manager (For Company Cars)
If you drive a company vehicle, inform your supervisor or fleet manager as soon as possible. They may have internal procedures or specific workshops you must use.
15. Review Your Insurance Policy for Next Time
The next 24 hours are stressful, but they also show you what your policy actually covers.
Check:
- Do you have agency repair?
- Do you have roadside assistance?
- What is the excess fee?
- Is rental car coverage included?
Understanding your plan helps you upgrade or switch to a better one later.
16. Stay Calm and Avoid Emotional Decisions
Some drivers feel guilty or angry and make wrong choices like:
- Verbally admitting fault
- Paying the other driver on the spot
- Driving away
- Losing their temper
Always stay calm. Let the police guide the situation.
17. Keep a Car Emergency Kit for the Future
A small kit can make any incident easier.
Keep:
- First-aid box
- Torch
- Phone charger
- Emergency triangle
- Water bottle
- Basic tools
These items help you feel more secure.
Final Thoughts
A car incident can happen to anyone in the UAE, whether you drive daily in Dubai, commute between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, or travel through Sharjah traffic. What matters most is how you respond in the first 24 hours. When you stay calm, follow the process and keep your documents organized, everything moves smoothly.