Preliminary data issued by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) showed that insurance firms recorded around 21,700 road accidents during the second quarter of 2026, compared with around 18,900 accidents during the same period in 2025, an increase of 14.8 per cent.
The accidents comprised 15,850 minor accidents, representing around 73 per cent of the total, and 5,893 serious accidents, accounting for approximately 27 per cent.
The data showed that the total number of road accident claims reached around 22,000 during the second quarter of 2026, recording growth of 7.2 per cent compared with the same period in 2025. Claims related to minor accidents rose to 15,800, compared with 14,000 claims, an increase of approximately 12.5 per cent.
In contrast, claims related to serious accidents involving material damage declined to 2,900, compared with 3,300 claims, a decrease of around 11.9 per cent. Meanwhile, claims related to serious accidents involving injuries and medical treatment expenses increased to 3,200, compared with 3,100 claims, an increase of around 4 per cent. Fatality-related claims also declined from 83 to 80.
The total value of compensation paid, in addition to reported claims that had not yet been settled, reached around RO 25.1 million during the second quarter of 2026, representing an increase of 19 per cent compared with the same period in 2025. This comprised approximately RO 12.48 million for minor accidents, RO 5.3 million for serious accidents involving material damage, and RO 6.2 million for serious accidents involving injuries and medical treatment expenses, while fatality-related claims amounted to around RO 1 million.
These indicators reflect a notable increase in the overall number of road accidents during the second quarter of the year, accompanied by growth in both the number and value of claims. The total number of accidents increased by 14.8 per cent, while the number of claims rose by 7.2 per cent and the total value of claims increased by 19 per cent. The data also show variations across accident categories, with increases in claims related to minor accidents, injuries and medical expenses, compared with declines in claims related to serious accidents involving material damage and fatalities.
These indicators underscore the importance of continuing to strengthen road safety measures, promote a culture of safe driving and encourage compliance with traffic regulations, thereby helping to reduce the human and material losses resulting from road accidents. While insurance plays an important role in managing risks and mitigating their financial impact, prevention remains fundamental to protecting lives and property.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
