Traffic Accidents

[Brian US]

Almost hit a man with my scooter when he stepped out in front of me today, so that had me thinking of the worst.

I know some topics have been on driving around in China and general laws, but I was looking for more information on traffic accidents and/or dealing with police if they become involved.

Just from looking around it seems people don't really get reimbursed through lawsuits.

I would appreciate any experiences or advice!

[xianhua]

I can only speak for my wife's hometown, but car accidents are generally settled through a heated discussion and exchange of cash. Few people have car insurance in that city (in Hubei).

Last year I was involved in a minor accident in the UK. It took 9 months for the insurance companies to finally agree whose fault it was. The process caused much stress and anxiety, and quite frankly, a heated discussion and exchange of cash would have been far preferential.

[Brian US]

So would you only recommend calling the police in a severe accident? I can see (depending on who is to really blame) giving some money if I scuffed up someone's bicycle, but not sure if someone starts limping around.

[Daan]

I think you would do well to call the police, since if you're looking at people getting injured you never know what might be coming your way later if you don't have an objective account of what happened. But then I must admit I've never had any run-ins with the law in China, so other more seasoned members might have better ideas