What Is Legal Liability for Accidents, and When Does an Accident Give Rise to Legal Liability?

Legal liability for accidents is one of the important issues affecting the lives and interests of individuals in Saudi society. Accidents can take many forms, ranging from traffic accidents to incidents resulting from negligence or failure to comply with laws and regulations.

Legal liability arising from accidents is a direct consequence of acts involving negligence or fault by entities or individuals, and its assessment depends on several factors, including the nature of the accident and the resulting damages.

In this article, we will explain when an accident gives rise to legal liability and how you can object to an accident report electronically with ease.

When Does an Accident Give Rise to Legal Liability?

There are certain situations in which an accident may result in legal liability. Below, we explain when an accident gives rise to legal liability:

• If the driver causes the accident and then flees the scene.
• If the accident occurs because the driver violated provisions of the Saudi Traffic Law.
• If the accident results in bodily injuries such as bruises, wounds, or fractures.
• If the accident prevents the injured person from carrying out their work for more than 20 days.
• If the accident results in the death of an injured person.
• If the accident occurs because the driver consumed intoxicants or used narcotic substances.
• If the accident is caused by a person who does not hold a valid legal driving license.
• If it is found that the accident was deliberately staged in order to commit a crime against the victim.
• If the vehicle was handed over to another person who was not authorized to drive it.
• If the accident is caused by a minor who is not legally entitled to obtain a driving license or drive a vehicle.

Objecting to a Traffic Accident Through the Absher Platform

Below are the steps you can follow if you wish to object to a traffic accident through the Absher platform:

• Access the Absher platform and log in using your username and password.
• Then go to the My Services section and select Traffic from the available menu.
• Next, click the option for objecting to traffic accidents.
• Follow the instructions displayed on the screen to complete the required form.
• Enter the required information, such as the accident number, the date of the accident, and any other relevant details.
• Make sure the information is accurate and complete to support your objection.
• After entering all required information, click Submit.
• You can track the status of your objection on the Absher platform, where you will be notified of the result or any updates through messages.

How Does the Saudi Traffic Law Regulate Legal Liability for Traffic Accidents?

The Saudi Traffic Law includes provisions explaining legal liability for traffic accidents. Article (60) of the Saudi Traffic Law provides:

“A traffic accident gives rise to liability if it results from negligence, lack of caution, or failure to comply with regulations.”

This article explains when an accident gives rise to legal liability, namely when the accident occurs because of negligence or failure to comply with traffic laws.

Article (61) of the Saudi Traffic Law also provides:

“1- If a traffic accident gives rise to a public right, the competent authority shall immediately begin evidence-gathering procedures regarding the accident, notify the Public Prosecution, and submit the case file to it in accordance with the Law of Criminal Procedure.

2- If a traffic accident gives rise only to a private right, the competent authority shall detain the person responsible for the accident for a period not exceeding 24 hours unless they provide a financial or appearance guarantee, or another guarantee ensuring fulfillment of the private right. If none is provided, the person shall be referred to the competent court in accordance with the applicable procedures after the expiry of the period referred to in this paragraph.”

This article explains the legal procedures followed when a traffic accident occurs in Saudi Arabia, depending on whether the resulting right is public or private.

If the accident gives rise to a public right, such as where it causes death or serious bodily injury, the competent authority begins investigating immediately after the accident, notifies the Public Prosecution, and submits the case file to it so that the necessary legal measures can be taken against the person responsible.

In accidents that give rise only to a private right, such as material damage to property or vehicles, the responsible driver may be detained for no more than 24 hours unless they provide a financial or appearance guarantee ensuring fulfillment of the private right.

If no guarantee is provided within that period, the case is referred to the competent court to complete the legal procedures.

The Importance of Hiring a Lawyer Specialized in Traffic Accident Cases

If you are involved in a traffic accident that gives rise to legal liability, seeking the assistance of a specialized lawyer may be the best option. Nawaf bin Awad Al-Harbi Law Firm has lawyers specializing in this type of case as well as many other legal matters.

The firm includes a team of lawyers experienced in the Saudi Traffic Law as well as civil and criminal cases. They follow up on investigation and public prosecution procedures and provide the legal advice needed to help avoid legal problems.

They also deal efficiently with judicial and traffic authorities. Whether you are facing a penalty because you caused a traffic accident or you are the victim of one, contacting our firm can be an important step toward protecting your rights.

Conclusion:

We have now explained when an accident gives rise to legal liability and how to object to a traffic accident electronically with ease. Saudi systems have simplified this process significantly, and you can object to a traffic accident through the Absher platform by following the steps explained above.

Learn about the Judgment Objection Memorandum and how it can help you appeal a court judgment and defend your rights through clear legal steps.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Should You Do If a Traffic Accident Occurs?

If a traffic accident occurs, you should safely stop your vehicle, remain at the scene of the accident, and contact the nearest police station or Najm’s unified number, 199033.

How Do I Submit an Objection to a Traffic Accident?

You can submit an objection to a traffic accident by logging in to your account on the Absher platform, going to My Services, selecting Traffic, and then clicking the option for objecting to the accident liability percentage. You can then complete the electronic form with the required information and attach all evidence supporting your objection.

How Do I Submit an Objection to a Najm Report?

You can submit an objection to a Najm report by logging in to Najm’s official website, selecting the complaints and violations reporting option, then choosing the objection section and clicking New Objection. Explain the reasons for your objection, enter any required personal information in the designated fields, upload the accident description and statement form, and then click Submit.