Parking Lot Accidents: Who’s at Fault in UAE Traffic Law?

Parking lot accidents in Dubai’s fast-paced environment are common occurrences, but determining who is at fault in UAE traffic law can be confusing. To simplify this often-confusing area of traffic regulation, this guide elaborates on key principles and common scenarios for fault determination, as per UAE traffic law.

Learn all essential steps for UAE parking lot accidents and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to handle any parking lot mishap with confidence. Let’s dive in.

Before You Park: A Quick Guide to Parking in the UAE

The first step to avoiding parking lot mishaps and costly fines in the UAE is knowing the rules. Even minor parking violations can lead to major headaches, so being aware of the specific regulations for any given area is the best way to save yourself a lot of hassle.

For a comprehensive guide on how to park correctly and avoid common mistakes, explore our article on How to Avoid Parking Fines.

To understand the specific penalties for parking violations, be sure to read our guide on Dubai Parking Offenses and Fines.

Key Principles of Fault in Parking Lot Accidents

When it comes to parking lot collisions, standard traffic laws don't always apply. However, there are a few key principles that traffic authorities in the UAE use to determine who is at fault. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial for navigating any parking lot mishap.

• A moving vehicle is almost always at fault when hitting a stationary one.

• The vehicle backing out of a spot must yield to all other vehicles and pedestrians.

• Vehicles already in the aisle have the right of way.

Common Scenarios and Fault Determination

Now that you know the key principles, let’s apply them to the most common parking lot scenarios. By understanding how these rules apply in real-life situations, you can better prepare for any parking lot mishaps/incidents.

Scenario 1: Backing Out vs. Aisle Traffic

A car (Car A) is backing out of a parking spot and collides with another car (Car B) driving down the aisle.

• Fault: Car A is 100% at fault. The vehicle backing out of a parking spot must yield the right of way to all oncoming traffic in the aisle.

Scenario 2: Two Cars Backing Up Simultaneously

Two cars (Car A and Car B) in opposite spots back out at the same time and collide with each other.

• Fault: This is generally considered a shared fault (50/50). Both drivers are responsible for exercising caution and checking their surroundings before reversing.

Scenario 3: Hitting a Properly Parked Car

A moving car (Car A) strikes a parked and unoccupied car (Car B).

• Fault: Car A is 100% at fault. It is the responsibility of the moving vehicle to ensure the path is clear.

Scenario 4: Two Cars Collide at an Aisle Intersection

Two cars (Car A and Car B) reach an unmarked intersection within the parking lot at the same time and collide.

• Fault: This can vary, but typically the car on the left is at fault (most times), similar to standard UAE intersection rules. However, authorities may determine a shared fault depending on the specific circumstances and speed of the vehicles.

What to Do After a Minor Parking Lot Accident

Understanding who is at fault is only the first step. To protect yourself from future liabilities and ensure your insurance claim is processed smoothly, it's crucial to follow the correct protocol immediately after an accident.

Here are the essential steps you must take to get an official police report and handle the situation correctly.

Step 1: Document Everything

Take clear photos and videos of the scene from multiple angles. Make sure you capture the damage to both vehicles, the license plates, and the overall position of the cars. This visual evidence is absolutely crucial for the police report and your insurance claim.

Step 2: Exchange Information

Information is key. Don’t escalate the situation; just get the other driver’s name, contact number, and vehicle plate number. If they are driving a rental car, ask for the rental company's details as well. Never engage in arguments or admit fault at the scene.

Step 3: Move Your Vehicle

If the damage is minor and both vehicles are drivable, move them to an empty parking spot to avoid obstructing traffic. This is a legal requirement in the UAE for minor accidents.

Step 4: Report to the Police

This is the most critical step. For any accident—no matter how minor—a police report is mandatory for insurance purposes. Report the parking lot accident through the Emirate-specific Police App or by calling the non-emergency hotline at 901.

Let the authorities handle the determination of who is at fault per the given evidence and CCTV recordings, usually present at all Smart Parking Systems. They will process your request/report and issue an official report — the only document your insurance provider will accept for repairs.

For specific instructions on what to do if the other driver flees the scene, refer to our guide on What to Do If Your Parked Car Is Hit by an Unknown Person.

FAQs

1. Do I need a police report for a minor scratch?

Yes. You will need to obtain an official police report for any vehicle damage, including a minor scratch. Without a Simple Accident Report (if fault is known) or an Unknown Accident Report (if the other party is unknown), your insurance provider will not authorize any repairs.

2. Will a parking lot accident affect my insurance premium?

The effect of parking lot accidents on your insurance premium depends on who is at fault. If the police report identifies the other driver as fully at fault, your No Claim Bonus (NCB) will not be affected. However, if you are deemed partially or fully at fault, you may lose your NCB and face a higher premium at renewal.

3. What if the other driver flees the scene?

If the other driver flees the scene after hitting your car, immediately report the incident to the emirate-related Police via their app or non-emergency line (901). This is crucial to obtain an Unknown Party Report. The obtained report is crucial for any insurance claim, as the provider mandates a police report to process a claim for the damages. You will pay a standard fee of around AED 420 to obtain a report.

4. Is there a fine for not reporting a minor accident?

Yes, there is a fine for not reporting an accident in the UAE, even a minor accident. According to UAE traffic laws, all accidents—even minor ones—must be reported to the police. Failure to do so can result in a fine of AED 500 and several black points on your license for an unreported accident.

Final Thoughts

Parking lot accidents in the UAE are a common occurrence, and you can easily navigate through these often-confusing aspects of traffic regulations with a clear understanding of the principles explained above. By learning the parking principles and applying them to the four common scenarios, you will be equipped with the knowledge to deal with any UAE parking lot-related mishap.

Remember to park consciously, and in the event of an accident, act swiftly and legally to ensure a smooth resolution according to UAE traffic law. Don’t forget to share your parking lot mishaps and experiences in the comments to help out our fellow readers.