Saudi Car Accidents: The “Move Aside” Rule

Ever been stuck in a frustrating traffic jam caused by minor car accidents? It’s an every day sight here in Saudi Arabia. Many drivers freeze in place after an accident, believing they must not move their car to avoid problems with Najm and car insurance companies in Saudi Arabia.

A common fear is that moving your car will mess up your accident liability in Najm’s report or your car insurance claim. Let’s put that worry to rest!

🚫 What the Saudi Traffic law actually says

Many drivers believe that Saudi traffic law requires them to keep their cars in place after an accident, or they could face a hit-and-run fine and problems withs car insurance.

In reality, Article 63 of the Saudi traffic regulations says you can legally move your car after an accident, if:

• You have taken photos of the cars and the scene.
• Your car is blocking traffic or creating danger.

See article 63, Saudi Traffic Law

The confusion comes from a misunderstanding of what a hit-and-run actually is. The law is clear: a hit-and-run is when you don’t stop/ run after the accident. It is not when you move your car to the side of the road.

📱 What to do after minor accidents in Saudi

If at least one of the drivers has car insurance, here’s how you should act:

1. Report Najm

Call Najm at 199033 or use WhatsApp; they’ve an automated system. Follow the instructions

2. Snap pictures

Take clear photos in the Najm app — both cars, close-ups of damage, and a quick video of the scene.

3. Move to the side

Pull over to the shoulder or a safe spot nearby. Don’t block the way while waiting for Najm’s surveyor.

Staying put is a BAD idea

By moving your car, you’re not only following the law—you’re stopping a dangerous situation from getting worse.

• You’re stopping another accident. Your car is now a surprise obstacle. On a highway, drivers are going fast and may not see you in time, especially at night. One minor car accident could easily turn into a chain.
• You protect yourself. Staying in a live traffic lane puts you in a dangerous zone. Getting to the side of the road keeps you and your passengers safe while you wait for Najm.
• You help everyone else. A minor accident blocking one lane can cause a stretching traffic. This does not stop other drivers from getting to their destination but can also block ambulances, fire trucks, or police from getting to a more urgent situation.

What If nobody has car insurance?

No problem. You can still follow a similar process after you contact Moroor (traffic police). Use the “Minor Accidents Reporting” service on the Absher platform. Take your photos, fill in the details, and then move your cars to the side to wait for Moroor.

Wait for Najm, but do it safely

Even after you’ve reported the accident and too your pictures, you must wait for Najm. If you leave before that, it can be considered a hit-and-run case — that’s a fine of up to SAR 10,000, plus your car insurance company won’t pay for anything.

Even if you decide not to file a claim with your car insurance, make sure you still get an official accident report. This way, no one can change their mind later and file a hit-and-run report against you.

Be safe & be smart

Keeping cars in the middle of the road after minor car accidents is not only annoying for everyone else—it’s also dangerous. After an accident, your main goal is to report it, take photos, and move to safety.

And here’s one last thing to keep in mind: accidents are unpredictable, but the cost of car insurance doesn’t have to be. If you want to avoid headaches down the line, compare prices and coverage options before you buy. A few minutes of comparing policies online can save you money—and make sure you have the right protection when you need it most.