Norms clarified for minor road accidents

MUSCAT: Road accidents can lead to significant stress, impacting both life and health. While the goal is often to reach a destination quickly, mishaps can be disruptive. How drivers respond after an accident is crucial, especially when people are fasting, adding to the complexity of the situation.

To simplify matters, the Royal Oman Police has outlined clear procedures for handling minor road accidents, where only vehicles are damaged and no one is injured.

Here are the key steps to follow:

Agreement on fault: If the parties agree on fault, both vehicles should be moved from the road. They must fill out a simple traffic accident form, which both parties sign. The insurance company must act within a week of receiving the form.

Agreement on costs: If one or both parties decide to bear the repair costs themselves, vehicles should still be moved from the road, and a traffic accident form filled out. Both parties need to visit the police station to obtain a repair permit.

Disagreement on fault: If the parties cannot agree on fault, the vehicles must be moved, and the police should be notified immediately. Any party refusing to move their vehicle will be considered to obstruct traffic.

Minor traffic accidents, as defined by the Royal Oman Police, involve only vehicle damage, with no fatalities, injuries, or damage to property. However, accidents involving public property, intoxicated drivers, suspended licences, uninsured vehicles, or military/security vehicles are not considered minor.