🚦 Traffic & transport · Awareness case
A Foreigner Responsible for a Traffic Accident in China and Police Procedure · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: قانون سلامة المرور / Road Traffic Safety Law (2021) Art. 119 + Administrative Penalty Law
If a foreigner is responsible for a traffic accident, they must stop immediately, notify the police, and not leave the accident scene, or face aggravated penalties.
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
Under the Road Traffic Safety Law (revised 2021), in traffic accidents: (1) Stop immediately and turn on hazard lights; (2) Call police on 122 and ambulance on 120 for injuries; (3) Do not leave the accident scene (leaving constitutes an additional offense); (4) Get the other party's insurance number and vehicle details. Hit-and-run offense: 2000-5000 CNY fine + 12 violation points (full score deduction) or 6-month license suspension in accidents without injuries. In injury cases: criminal prosecution for negligent driving. Advice: take photos of the scene and damages before moving vehicles.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Save a maps app and your mandatory insurance number on your phone before driving in China. Calling the police immediately protects you legally.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026