Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 18 November 2025.
While no one wants to think about being in a car accident, being prepared can make all the difference. Understanding the correct car accident procedures in Qatar helps protect your safety, your rights, and your insurance coverage.
This guide explains what to do after an accident, how to file a police report, how to use Metrash for minor accidents, and the step-by-step insurance claim process.
Understanding Minor vs Major Accidents
Car accidents in Qatar are generally classified into two categories:
Minor Accidents
A minor accident involves no injuries and light vehicle damage, such as:
- Scratches or small dents on panels or bumpers
- Broken side mirrors
- Minor headlight cracks
- Superficial paint transfer
- Small windshield cracks not affecting visibility
Minor accidents can usually be reported through the Metrash app, provided both parties agree.
Major Accidents
A major accident involves:
- Injuries
- Airbag deployment
- Significant body or structural damage (crumpled hood, chassis issues, wheel misalignment)
- Situations where drivers do not agree on fault
These require immediate police attendance.
Different Scenarios of a Car Accident in Qatar
Here are the different actions to take depending on the type of accident you are involved in.
Scenario 1: Minor Accident (No Injuries)
Once the vehicle stops, turn on the hazard warning lights to alert other drivers. If both parties agree, you can move the vehicles to the side of the road so they do not block traffic.
Before moving the vehicles, take at least four photos, including one showing the number plates.
PLEASE NOTE: Ministry of Interior has announced that in case of accidents where there are no injuries, the vehicles shall be moved to the nearest parking area not to block the traffic. Otherwise, you will be fined QAR 1000, and three points will be registered against your license.
After moving the vehicle, take the other driver’s phone number, name, and Qatar ID (if possible).
As per the new procedure, drivers can now file online reports of minor accidents using the Metrash app, uploading clear photos of the damage.
This service eliminates waiting for a traffic patrol and removes the need to visit the Traffic Department for minor cases.
Steps for Online Accident Reporting (Metrash)
- Enable location services on your mobile.
- Open Metrash → Traffic → Traffic Accident → Accident Registration.
- Confirm accident location (auto-detected).
- Enter both car plate numbers, drivers’ QID details, and mobile numbers.
- Attach photos of both vehicles.
- Agree on legal responsibility.
- Submit the report.
You will receive an SMS to wait for the next update.
- If responsibility is clear, the investigator completes the report and you will receive an SMS to download the insurance and repair report.
- If more investigation is required, both parties will receive SMS instructions to visit the Traffic Department.
Scenario 2: Injury, Major Damage, or Disagreement
- Do not move the vehicles.
- Call the police (999), as they must see the exact positions to determine fault.
- Request an ambulance if anyone is injured.
- Follow Step 2 (below).
Scenario 3: Hit-and-Run or Damage While Parked
- Go to the nearest police station.
- A file will be opened, and authorities will wait for up to a week in case someone comes forward.
- After that, you will receive a police accident report, enabling you to repair your vehicle.
- Follow Step 4 (below).
Scenario 4: Accident Without Another Party (Hitting an Object)
- Visit the nearest police station.
- You will receive an accident report that allows you to repair your car.
- Fully insured vehicles can claim repairs. With third-party insurance, you must bear the repair cost.
- Follow Step 4 (below).
Car Accident in Qatar: Steps To Follow
Step 1: Emergency Calls
- Police: 999 / 44890699 / 44890670
- Ambulance: 999
- Hamad Hospital: 44392222 / 44393333
Step 2: When Police Arrive at the Scene
You will be asked to provide your:
- Driving license
- Vehicle registration (Istimara)
- Insurance documents
Police will issue either:
- Green paper = Not at fault
- Red paper = At fault
You will receive an SMS with an accident file number. The details will be shared electronically with your insurance company. Updates can be viewed through Metrash.
Step 3: At the Police Station
Bring your car if requested for inspection.
If you do not speak Arabic, it is better to take someone who does.
Carry your:
- Qatar ID
- Driving License
- Istimara (Vehicle registration)
- Insurance documents
Do not sign anything you do not understand, and do not accept blame if you believe you are not at fault.
Once the report is filed, you can download it through the Metrash app or the MoI website using this link.
Step 4: Insurance Claim Process
If you are not at fault, ask the other driver for the name of their insurance company.
Documents needed for the insurance claim:
- Police accident report
- Police approval for repair
- Copy of your vehicle registration
- Copy of your driving license
Most insurance companies now process claims online, and Traffic Police send accident reports directly to them.
Some insurers allow document submission via website, email, or fax. Contact your insurer’s call centre for details.
Step 5: Garage Repair
It is illegal for any garage in Qatar to repair accident damage without official police and/or insurance paperwork.
If the repair is through insurance, the insurance company will tell you which authorized garage to visit. You will receive an approval paper to give to the garage, and you will not need to pay.
Situations Where Your Car Insurance Will NOT Cover You
Insurance does not cover accidents if:
- You do not hold a valid driving license
- You were driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs
- You crossed a red light
- You were driving at excessive speed
- You drove off-road without off-road insurance
Check your policy for complete details.
Final Note
We wish you safe, accident-free driving. However, if you are ever involved in a car accident in Qatar, following the correct steps—reporting through Metrash, cooperating with police, and completing the insurance process—ensures that everything is handled smoothly and legally.
READ NEXT: Complete Guide To Fahes Vehicle Inspection
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- How to Get an International Driving License in Qatar
- Qatar Traffic Signs and Their Meanings
- Qatar Driving License Procedure
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Aneesh, the Founder & Editor of DohaGuides holds a Master’s Degree in Communication & Journalism, and has two decades of experience living in the Middle East. Since 2014, he and his team have been sharing helpful content on travel, visa rules, and expatriate affairs.
Hi, Actually I had a road accident with coster. the coster driver hitted me from the back side. I was infront of the coster. After the accident my my right ankle joint fractured and admitted in the hamad general hospital. After one week I received the message from Metrash. the message about visit to insurance office. I went there for compensation for my injury and recovery for my vehicle’s damage. the other driver’s Insurance Company said , go to the court for compensation insurance payment.
So let me know, how can I claim for compensation for insurance payment and which place will I have to go for that? I mean Traffic court of Qatar? Ministry of health department? or any other court of Qatar? please anyone explain me. thanks