Is your parked car in Dubai damaged? Who pays for the damages?

If you return to your parked car in Dubai after purchasing or after working hours and find a damaged bumper, dent, or deep scratch, but there is no sign of the at-fault driver or their contact number, you can still report the incident. However, even if you are not at fault, you may have to cover some of the costs yourself.

What is the first step?

Before leaving the scene, take photos of the damage to the car and its surroundings. If there are witnesses or if the CCTV cameras of nearby buildings, shops, and parking lots may have recorded the incident, check this information.

Then report the incident to Dubai Police. This can be done through the Dubai Police app, at some ENOC fuel stations, or by calling the non-emergency number 901.

How to report an 'Unknown Party'?

1. Open the Dubai Police app and log in with UAE Pass.

2. From the main page, select Submit a Report and then Traffic Accidents Report. After clicking Start Service, select Accident Report for Unknown Party.

3. Enter the required information, including the vehicle's plate number, driver's license number, and mobile phone number.

4. Upload clear photos of the damage and the vehicle, including images from all four sides.

5. Review the information, submit the report, and pay the 420 AED fee for the incident report.

After reviewing the request, a collision report will be issued, which you can use to follow up on damages with your insurance.

Note that this service is only available for incidents that occur in Dubai, and the issued report is valid for three months.

What will the final cost be?

The 420 AED cost of the police report may only be part of your expenses. The cost of repairing a scratch or dent can range from 250 to 3500 AED or even more, depending on the extent of the damage, the car model, the damaged part, and the type of repair.

Additionally, you may face other costs:

• Insurance deductible: A portion of the repair cost that you must pay according to the terms of the insurance policy.
• Repair costs: If the insurance does not cover the damage to your vehicle, you may be responsible for the entire repair cost.
• Additional costs: Such as towing the vehicle, alternative transportation during repairs, or costs for parts not covered by insurance.

Will the insurance cover the damages?

This depends on the type of car insurance and the terms of the policy.

If you have comprehensive insurance, the damage to your vehicle, including damage caused by an unknown driver, is usually covered, provided you meet the terms and exceptions of the policy. However, you may still have to pay a deductible or other costs.

On the other hand, third-party insurance usually covers damages to others, not damages to your own vehicle. Therefore, if the at-fault driver is not identified, this insurance typically does not cover the repair costs for your car..
Source: Gulf News