OSAGO in Uzbekistan: What to Do After a Car Accident

A road traffic accident (RTA) is always stressful — especially for inexperienced drivers. Even if you have valid OSAGO insurance (Compulsory Third Party Liability), it’s essential to know how to act properly to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to (if you’re the victim), or to make sure your insurer handles the claim correctly (if you’re at fault).

Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on what to do in case of an RTA in Uzbekistan when the parties involved are covered by OSAGO insurance.

Step 1: Stop and Ensure Safety

Stop your vehicle immediately. Do not attempt to leave the accident scene, even if the damage seems minor. Stop your vehicle as close to the accident site as possible without blocking traffic.

Turn on your hazard lights. This will alert other drivers and prevent further accidents.

Place the emergency warning triangle. As per traffic regulations, the triangle should be placed at least 15 meters from the vehicle in urban areas and 30 meters outside urban areas.

Assess the situation. Make sure no one is injured. If anyone is hurt, immediately call an ambulance (dial 103) and provide first aid if you are trained to do so. Never leave injured persons without help.

Step 2: Call the Traffic Police (GAI)

Call 102 and report the accident. Be ready to provide the exact location, number of vehicles involved, and whether there are any injuries.

Do not move the vehicles. Until the traffic police arrive and document the scene, do not alter the position of the vehicles or any related objects (e.g., broken glass, skid marks, debris).

Document the scene. If possible, take photos or video footage of the accident from different angles. Capture damage to the vehicles, their positions relative to each other and nearby objects, license plates, skid marks, and more. If there are any eyewitnesses, record their full names and contact details.

Step 3: Exchange Information with Other Drivers

Stay calm. Avoid arguments or blaming each other.

Exchange details. Write down the full names, addresses, and phone numbers of the other drivers. Most importantly, note the details of their OSAGO policies: the name of the insurance company, policy series, and number. Take photos of their policies if possible.

Step 4: Police Documentation

Wait for the officer to arrive. The traffic police will draw a diagram of the accident, issue a report on any administrative violation (if applicable), and collect statements from all parties and witnesses.

Read all documents carefully. Before signing anything, carefully read all the documents provided by the police. If you disagree with anything, make sure to include your comments in your statement or in the relevant section of the report.

Request copies. Ensure you receive a copy of the official report and the accident confirmation certificate (or other necessary documents, depending on the situation).

Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurer. Whether you’re the at-fault driver or the victim, you must notify your insurance company as soon as possible — typically within 3 to 5 working days (check your insurer’s terms for details).

If you are the victim: File a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. You can usually find office locations and online claim forms on the insurer’s website.

Step 6: Submit a Claim for Compensation (For the Victim)

Prepare the following documents:

• A claim for insurance compensation (the insurer will provide the form);

• A copy of your passport;

• A copy of your vehicle registration certificate;

• A copy of your driver’s license;

• The original or a copy of the at-fault driver’s OSAGO policy (if available);

• Documents from the police (accident report, protocol copy);

• Your bank details for the compensation transfer.

Damage assessment. The at-fault driver’s insurance company will arrange an inspection and damage evaluation of your vehicle. You have the right to be present during the assessment.

Wait for a decision. The insurer will review your claim and documents (usually within 30 days) and decide on the payout. Compensation for property damage under OSAGO is capped by law — currently up to 14 million UZS.

Important: Do not repair your vehicle before it is inspected by the insurer’s representative!

Simplified Procedure (European Accident Statement Form)

In some cases (minor damage, no injuries, both drivers agree on what happened, and both have valid OSAGO policies), the accident can be documented without involving the police by completing a special European Accident Statement form.

However, this option requires a clear understanding of the procedure and may not be suitable for every situation. For new drivers, it is usually safer to call the police.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can act confidently in case of an accident and make full use of your OSAGO insurance policy benefits.