Drivers in the UAE face an increase in car insurance premiums, after a 45 per cent surge in claims attributed to workers returning to offices.
Insurers said accident claims have returned to pre-pandemic levels, after they decreased by 60 per cent while working from home and distance learning were the norm.
But claims have risen in recent months, compared with the peak months of the coronavirus, according to RSA Insurance figures. They are now at similar levels to 2019, before the pandemic.
About 40 per cent of accidents in recent months have been attributed to driver error, with speeding and tailgating mostly responsible for collisions.
The number of claims is also being affected by more people remaining in the country as coronavirus rules make travel difficult
founder of RoadSafetyUAE
“The UAE is considered to be one of the first countries to have resumed similar levels of economic activity, so this trend of increased car insurance claims is likely to be a reference for other markets,” said Sunita Pais, head of claims at RSA Insurance UAE.
“With many countries still imposing strict restrictions on travel, it is likely many UAE residents will remain in the country, which may amplify the accident rates on the road."
The summer heat can also lead to more car breakdowns.
“As we approach the peak summer months, car tyre failures are more likely," Ms Pais said.
“In combination with more residents staying in the country this summer, drivers should be more alert.”
Dubai's streets fall silent during Covid-19 restrictions
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The main stretch of Sheikh Zayed Road near Downtown Dubai. Hundreds of thousands of vehicles would usually be on the roads on a Thursday night. EPA -
Defence Roundabout stands empty on Thursday night after the authorities ordered a 8pm to 6am curfew to allow for street cleaning. The curfew lifts during the day - but only absolutely essential travel is permitted. EPA -
The Internet City area usually a hive of activity. AFP -
A handful of cars on the road ahead of the curfew. Only key workers including medical staff and supermarket assistants are allowed to travel. AFP -
Pedestrian and cycling paths stand empty after people rushed home ahead the curfew. Business Central Towers near Media City can be seen on the right. AFP -
Stay home orders are likely to last for weeks as the government works to drive down the number of new cases. AFP -
Dubai Metro will undergo deep cleaning this weekend. AFP -
Once reopened, trains will run reduced numbers of passengers - about 170 down from a capacity of 650. AFP -
Dusit Thani hotel with the lights of Downtown in the background. EPA -
Despite road closures, restaurants and supermarkets will continue to deliver food to homes. EPA -
A metro train runs near Ibn Battuta Mall shortly before the curfew. Pawan Singh / The National -
Umm Suqeim Road with Burj Al Arab in the background. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Ms Pais said the increase in claims was likely to result in motor insurance prices being readjusted and increased over the next few months.
Insurers also reported a trend towards more drivers switching to third-party only protection to cut costs.
Dubai Police launched a three month campaign from July 1 to encourage motorists to be on their guard when driving.
The Towards a Safe Summer on the Roads project offers advice on social media and encourages drivers to follow road regulations and check their vehicles.
In 2018, burst tyres caused 110 deaths in the UAE. Accidents can be prevented by regular maintenance checks and maintaining the correct air pressure.
Thomas Edelmann, founder of RoadSafetyUAE, said drivers should take extra care during the summer to avoid accidents and the need for insurance claims.
“Insurance companies are possessing large amounts of data, which can play an important role in understanding accident patterns,” Mr Edelmann said.
“It is needless to say that the correct insurance cover is a vital part of road safety.”
