Traffic accidents are considered the biggest nightmare for most drivers, whether the at-fault individual or the damaged party. As a result of the consequences of these accidents, many new measures must be taken, whether financially or even amicably, yet, there are major traffic accidents that require arrest. Traffic accidents that require arrest in Saudi Arabia include those that occur while driving a vehicle under the influence of intoxicants, narcotics or psychotropic substances or while drifting. An arrest might also occur if a driver moves a vehicle in the opposite direction of traffic while passing a red-light traffic signal, or while exceeding the speed limit if an accident results in the death or injury from which the recovery period exceeds 21 days. Proper reporting and all related procedures are major elements in dealing with such traffic accidents. Many individuals lack updated knowledge on how to handle a traffic accident, especially when in a state of panic. Therefore, an individual has to familiarize herself/himself with the procedures. The procedures include submitting an official report to the traffic department or traffic police in case all parties do not have a valid insurance policy, or in the event of injury or death. If the individual holds a valid insurance policy, he or she has to inform the representative of Najm at the time of the accident. With specialized and dedicated accident services such as Najm, the steps and procedures are even easier. An individual can directly call the unified number of the customer service center, or via the announced WhatsApp or application channels. It is worth noting that such dedicated platforms provide beneficiaries with a series of benefits and post-accident services. Definitely, information is the key element in each accident, where the parties are required to provide as basic information as possible, such as names, national identity number, mobile number, vehicle plate number, vehicle type, insurance policy number, insurance company name, city, accident site as well as any clear or distinctive features of the accident site. After that, the individual will have to ensure that she/he obtains the accident reference number and the date of the accident in order to facilitate the procedures for evaluation by the certified centers, and then for the clearance and payment procedures with the insurance company. Finally, safety precautions are necessary to protect ourselves and our loved ones. However, these precautions include safety and legal driving methods, as well as the proper awareness of rights and obligations linked with these driving practices. Dimah Talal Alsharif is a Saudi legal consultant, head of the health law department at the law firm of Majed Garoub and a member of the International Association of Lawyers. Twitter: @dimah_alsharif Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect Arab News" point of view