Navigating a traffic accident can be a stressful experience, but in Saudi Arabia, the process is streamlined through Najm for Insurance Services. Najm is a private company authorized to handle minor traffic accidents that do not involve injuries or deaths. Understanding how to interact with Najm is essential for every driver in the Kingdom to ensure legal compliance and smooth insurance claims.
This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of what to do after a minor collision. From using the Najm mobile app to understanding the damage assessment process, you will find everything you need to manage a traffic incident with confidence. By following these steps, you can resolve the situation quickly and get back on the road safely.
What is Najm for Insurance Services?
Najm is a specialized company that provides insurance-related services for traffic accidents across Saudi Arabia. Their primary role is to arrive at the scene of an accident, document the incident, and determine the percentage of liability for each party involved. This service is crucial because it bridges the gap between the driver and the insurance company.
Before Najm was established, the Traffic Police (Moroor) handled all accidents. Today, Najm manages minor incidents, allowing the police to focus on more serious road safety issues. Using Najm simplifies the paperwork and speeds up the time it takes to process insurance claims for vehicle repairs.
When to Call Najm vs. the Traffic Police (Moroor)
It is important to know which authority to contact when an accident occurs. Calling the wrong entity can lead to delays in your report. You should contact Najm if the following conditions are met:
- The accident resulted in only property damage (no injuries or deaths).
- At least one of the parties involved has a valid insurance policy.
- The accident occurred within the geographical coverage area of Najm.
- There is no fire or criminal element involved in the incident.
If there are any injuries, fatalities, or if none of the parties have insurance, you must call the Traffic Police (Moroor) at 993. Additionally, if the accident involves a fire or a major public infrastructure issue, emergency services like the Civil Defense (998) should be notified immediately.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Accident
The moments following a collision are critical for safety and documentation. First, ensure that you and your passengers are safe. If it is safe to do so, move the vehicles to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and causing further accidents.
Turn on your hazard lights and set up a reflective warning triangle if you have one. Once the scene is secure, do not leave the area. Leaving the scene of an accident before a report is filed is a legal offense in Saudi Arabia. Take clear photos of the damage to all vehicles involved and the surrounding area, as these may be useful during the assessment.
How to Report an Accident via the Najm App
The most efficient way to report an accident is through the Najm mobile application. It is available on both iOS and Android platforms and is designed to expedite the reporting process. Using the app often results in a faster response time from the Najm investigator.
- Log In: Open the app and log in using your credentials. It is highly recommended to have the app downloaded and set up before you ever need it.
- Report Incident: Click on the option to report a new accident. The app will use your phone’s GPS to pinpoint your exact location.
- Upload Photos: The app will prompt you to take specific photos of the vehicles and the license plates. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
- Submit Details: Enter the required information about the other parties involved, if possible. Once submitted, you will receive a tracking number and an estimated arrival time for the investigator.
If you do not have a smartphone or data access, you can report the accident by calling the Najm unified number at 920000560. Be prepared to provide your location, insurance details, and vehicle information over the phone.
Required Documents for the Najm Investigator
When the Najm investigator arrives at the scene, they will need specific documents to verify the identities of the drivers and the status of the vehicles. Having these ready will significantly speed up the process.
You will need to present your valid Saudi Driver’s License and your Vehicle Registration (Istimara). Additionally, you must show proof of a valid insurance policy. The investigator will also check your National ID or Iqama. It is a good practice to keep digital copies of these documents on your phone or in the Tawakkalna app.
The Damage Assessment Process (Taqdeer)
Once the Najm investigator has completed the on-site report and assigned liability (e.g., 0%, 50%, or 100% at fault), the next step is damage assessment. In many major cities, this is handled through the “Taqdeer” system. This is an automated and standardized way to estimate repair costs.
You will need to book an appointment at a Taqdeer center through their official website. At the center, professional assessors will inspect your vehicle and provide an electronic report detailing the costs of parts and labor. This report is sent directly to the insurance companies, ensuring transparency and fairness in the payout process.
Tracking Your Claim and Repairs
After the assessment is complete, you can track the status of your insurance claim through the Najm app or website. You will need your accident report number to access these details. The insurance company of the party at fault is responsible for processing the payment based on the Taqdeer report.
If you have comprehensive insurance, your own provider may handle the repairs directly, depending on your policy terms. For third-party insurance, the payout is usually transferred to the claimant’s bank account via IBAN. Ensure your bank details are updated in the Najm system to avoid payment delays.
Tips for a Smooth Experience with Najm
To make the process as easy as possible, always keep your insurance policy active. Driving with an expired policy not only leads to fines but also disqualifies you from using Najm services during an accident. This would require police intervention and potentially lead to the impounding of your vehicle.
Remain calm and polite when interacting with the other driver and the Najm investigator. Disputes over liability are common, but the investigator is trained to make an objective decision based on traffic laws and the physical evidence at the scene. If you disagree with the decision, there is a formal appeals process available through Najm’s branches.
Finally, always ensure your contact information is updated with your insurance provider. This ensures you receive SMS notifications regarding your report status and claim progress. Staying informed is the best way to ensure your vehicle is repaired and back on the road quickly.
Managing a traffic accident in Saudi Arabia doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By utilizing the Najm app and following the established legal procedures, you can resolve incidents efficiently and professionally. For more helpful guides on navigating life and safety in the Kingdom, explore our other articles on transportation and consumer rights.