After a car accident in Saudi Arabia most people go through three stages: the accident report that sets the fault percentage, the damage estimate that sets the repair value, and the compensation claim against the insurer or the driver at fault. Most disputes start with a small error at the first or second stage.
The three stages after an accident
| Stage | What happens | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Accident report and fault | The competent body (Najm or traffic police) records how it happened and each party's share of fault | Check the description and percentage; keep photos and camera footage |
| Damage estimate | An accredited body estimates the repair cost | Make sure all damage is included, including hidden damage |
| Compensation claim | From the at-fault driver's insurer, or from the driver directly if uninsured | Submit a complete claim with documents and on time |
Bodies, deadlines and objection procedures are updated; check the latest official text and the competent platform.
If you object to the fault percentage
- Object as soon as possible through the channel that issued the report, with evidence: site photos, camera footage, witnesses.
- The fault percentage drives the whole claim: a 25% error means a quarter of the compensation.
- If the objection is rejected, the percentage can still be argued before the competent judicial body.
If the insurer rejects or reduces your claim
- Ask for the rejection or estimate in writing, with the reason.
- Complain to the company, then to the authority supervising insurance.
- If the dispute continues, it goes before the insurance dispute committees, which are among the quasi-judicial committees.
If the driver at fault is uninsured
Claim from them directly: start with a settlement or a written legal notice, then a lawsuit before the competent court; read which court is competent and filing a lawsuit on Najiz. If a judgment is not paid, it is enforced through the Enforcement Court.
Frequently asked questions
Should I repair my car before the estimate?
No. Repairing before the estimate and documentation loses your proof of damage.
Do I need a lawyer for an accident claim?
For minor damage, usually not. For disputes over fault, injuries, large amounts or an insurer's refusal, legal follow-up protects your right.
Accident compensation stuck?
The Usus Law Firm team handles compensation and general court cases and representation before quasi-judicial committees, in Riyadh and Tabuk.
This article is general legal information and is not a substitute for advice on your specific case. Court proceedings in Saudi Arabia are in Arabic; the official Arabic text of each law prevails.
Request a quick consultation
Leave your name and mobile number, and a lawyer from our Riyadh or Tabuk office will call you during working hours. We advise in English.
