Parking lot accidents are a frequent headache for drivers, especially in bustling cities like Dubai. If you’ve ever wondered, “Does car insurance cover parking lot damage?” this guide unpacks UAE policies, coverage for parking lot accident insurance, and how motor insurance Dubai providers handle claims. Stay informed and protect your vehicle.
Parking Lot Accidents in Dubai – How Common Are They?
Minor collisions, door dents, and scratches occur daily in malls and public parking areas across Dubai. Most incidents go unreported unless they are severe or require a police report. This raises a critical question: Does car insurance cover parking lot damage in such scenarios?
There are different types of parked car accidents that one may experience. The most common one is the hit-and-run accident. Still, there are other scenarios you might want to know about, for instance, a car scratched in a parking lot, insurance, or different types of parking lot insurance coverages. To learn about insurance types, first, you need to ask: do insurance companies cover parking lot accidents for all damages?
Hit And Run
As mentioned earlier, this is among the most common parked car accidents. This happens when someone hits your car and leaves without a notice. Such an irresponsible action, right? In this case, you must immediately contact the police and check the surroundings for security cameras and witnesses.
Getting Injured in Your Parked Car Due To An Accident
If someone hits your parked vehicle and you’re injured, you should immediately call the police and get the necessary medical attention as soon as you can. You should get the driver’s information to file a claim under their liability insurance. Their insurance will cover your property and bodily injury.
Someone Hitting Your Parked Car And Leaving A Note
In case someone hits your parked car and leaves a note, call the police and provide the driver’s information that they have left for you. You may need to call them to get their information if they have only left a contact. You can raise an insurance claim under their insurance and file a claim under your collision policy. However, try the first option before going for the latter.
Does Car Insurance Cover Parking Lot Damage in the UAE?
After learning about the accidents that can happen to your parked car, you can identify the type of incident and perform the correct actions. Now, it’s time to go over the car insurance, parking lot accidents, and each policy’s coverage.
Third-Party Liability for Parking Lot Accident
Third-party liability insurance is the minimum level of mandatory coverage in the UAE. This policy only covers third-party liabilities. If you cause an accident, your insurance provider will cover the injuries to the third party, such as property damage and self-injuries, as well as medical bills if necessary.
Any driver has at least this type of policy for their vehicle. Considering this factor, if you only have this parking lot accident insurance and hit another parked vehicle, your insurance will take care of the damage. If your car gets hit by someone who is a third-party policyholder, their insurance will take care of the damage.
Comprehensive Insurance for Parked Car Damage
Comprehensive car insurance offers the highest parking lot accident insurance among other policies. A comprehensive car insurance policy covers vandalism, fire, theft, broken glass, animal damage, and much more, as well as third-party liabilities.
Therefore, if you cause an accident, this policy will take care of it, and if you are the victim of a parked car accident, the other person’s comprehensive insurance will cover the damage.
Collision Insurance for Parked Car Damage
Collision insurance coverage is also another helpful policy in this scenario. Whether you caused the parked car accident or are the victim of it, your collision coverage will probably take care of it. However, make sure to check with your insurer beforehand.
Do Insurance Companies Cover Parking Lot Accidents?
Coverage depends on your policy and the situation. Do insurance companies cover parking lot accidents in all cases? It depends on the following:
- If both parties are present: File a police report on-site or via the Dubai Police app.
- Hit-and-run: Report immediately to the authorities for a case number.
- Required documentation: Police report, photos/CCTV footage, and repair estimates from approved garages.
Parking Lot Accident Insurance – What’s Covered & What’s Not
| Incident Type | Covered by Insurance? | Notes |
| You scratch another car | ✅ (Third-party liability) | Must report to police |
| Another car hits you (visible) | ✅ (Comprehensive only) | Need police report and license plate info |
| Unknown car hits you (hit/run) | ✅ (Comprehensive) | Police report required |
| You hit a pole/wall | ✅ (Comprehensive) | Considered own-damage |
| Shopping cart damage | ❌ (Usually not) | Rarely covered, unless part of bigger claim |
What Should I Do After a Parking Lot Accident?
When experiencing car park accidents, you may think all accountable parties responsibly wait to take care of the situation, but you’re wrong. Many people leave after causing an accident to run away from the consequences.
This hit-and-run accident happens daily, especially in busy parking lots and areas. Let’s see what you can do if such a thing happens to your vehicle:
Find a Witness
If you’re lucky, you can find a witness to the accident. Search around the parking lot/area to see if anyone has witnessed the incident.
Call the police
The next essential step is calling the police. As a victim of a hit-and-run, you can call the police and have them file a report for you. If you have a witness to the accident, make sure to let the police know.
Gather documents and reports
Taking pictures of the damage caused to your vehicle and its surroundings, alongside the police report, will be helpful to documents you can gather for your insurer. Check for any security cameras around where you can use their footage.
How to File a Claim for Parking Lot Damage in Dubai – Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating a parking lot accident in Dubai? Follow these clear, actionable steps to ensure your parking lot accident insurance claim is processed smoothly:
Step 1: Report the Incident Immediately
- Use the Dubai Police App:
- Open the app, select “Accident Report,” and upload details (location, photos, involved parties).
- For hit-and-runs, select “Unknown Driver” and attach evidence (e.g., CCTV footage requests).
- Visit a Police Station (if required):
- Serious damage or injuries may require an in-person report. Obtain a police report – it’s mandatory for most claims.
Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly
- Take Photos/Videos:
- Capture multiple angles of your car’s damage, the accident location, and surrounding landmarks.
- Check for CCTV:
- Ask mall/office security for footage – many Dubai parking lots have cameras. Note the exact time and zone.
- Record Witness Details:
- If someone saw the incident, collect their contact information.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Provider
- Contact the Insurer Within 24 Hours:
- Most UAE insurers require prompt reporting. Use their app, call center, or email.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Police report
- Emirates ID, driver’s license, and vehicle registration
- Photos/videos of damage
- Witness/CCTV details (if available)
Step 4: Visit an Approved Repair Garage
- Choose from Your Insurer’s Network:
- Insurers like Oman Insurance or AXA have tie-ups with garages (e.g., Al Futtaim Automall). Using non-approved garages may void coverage.
- Get a Damage Assessment:
- The garage will inspect your car and provide a repair estimate to your insurer.
Step 5: Pay Your Deductible
- Understand Your Policy’s Excess Fee:
- Deductibles in Dubai typically range from AED 500 to AED 2,000. Pay this directly to the garage.
- Waiver Options:
- Some policies waive the deductible for hit-and-runs if a police report is filed.
Step 6: Track Your Claim Status
- Use Online Portals:
- Log in to your insurer’s portal (e.g., RSA, Zurich) for real-time updates. Most claims are processed in 3-5 business days in Dubai.
Step 7: Collect Your Repaired Vehicle
- Inspect the Repairs:
- Ensure all agreed-upon fixes are completed. Sign off only after approval.
- Keep Records:
- Save repair invoices and final approval documents for future reference.
Pro Tips for A Successful Parking Lot Accident Insurance Claim
- Review Policy Exclusions: Some insurers exclude “shopping cart damage” – clarify beforehand.
- Act Fast: Delays in reporting can lead to claim rejection.
- No Admission of Fault: Let Dubai Police determine liability.
Find Parking Lot Accident Insurance on Lookinsure
The right add-ons will protect your car against parking lot damage, whether caused by an accident or mistake. Here at Lookinsure, we will provide all the necessary information to help you escape any similar situation. Find and compare the best Motor Insurance Dubai policy with parking lot coverage add-ons, and you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts on Parking Lot Accident Insurance)
Navigating parking lot accident insurance can be stressful, but understanding your policy is key. Comprehensive or collision coverage often applies when dealing with a hit-and-run or minor scratches. For drivers in the UAE, motor insurance Dubai policies may offer tailored solutions. Always document incidents promptly and consult your insurer to ensure claims are processed smoothly.
Frequently Answered Questions
1: Are accidents in car parks covered by insurance??
Yes, most auto insurance policies typically cover accidents that occur in parking lots, including collisions with other vehicles or property damage. However, specifics can vary based on your policy type and provider, so it’s good to check your policy details.
2: What happens if someone crashes into your parked car??
If your vehicle is parked and hit, your insurance may cover repairs through collision coverage or comprehensive coverage, depending on your policy. You should report the incident to your insurer and provide evidence like photos. If the at-fault driver is identified, their insurance may also cover the damage.
3: Does my car insurance include Valet Parking Cover?
Many car insurance policies do not include valet parking coverage. However, most insurers have add-on coverage plans to your standard policy. You can check your insurer’s add-on coverages to see what they offer.
4: Which UAE provider offers car scratch insurance in the parking lot?
Many insurance companies offer parked car insurance. Some notable companies include AXA, Abu Dhabi Insurance Company, Oman Insurance Company and more. Make sure to compare policies and quotes from different providers before finalizing your choice.
5. What if the other driver leaves the scene after parking lot accident?
If the other driver flees, you should collect as much information as possible—such as vehicle details, license plate number, and photos. Report the incident to the police and your insurance company. Many policies include uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage to handle such situations.
