A traffic accident in China can leave an injured visitor dealing with police, hospitals, insurers, a driver, and unfamiliar paperwork at the same time. The first priorities are safety and medical care. Once urgent needs are addressed, preserve a clear record of what happened and obtain the official documents that will be needed to assess responsibility and losses.
Foreign nationality does not create a separate compensation formula. The applicable rules depend on the facts, injury, insurance, evidence, and local process. This guide focuses on practical steps for a visitor or foreign resident and does not promise a particular liability finding or payment.
At the scene: safety and an accurate record
Call the local emergency services when anyone is injured or the scene is unsafe, and contact traffic police to report the collision. Do not leave before you understand whether police need you to remain, give a statement, or provide documents. If language is a barrier, ask for interpretation before signing a statement you cannot understand.
When it is safe and lawful, record the location, time, vehicle plates, road conditions, visible damage, and contact details for witnesses. Preserve original photographs, dash-camera footage, messages, and the police accident record. Avoid editing or posting sensitive material publicly.
Medical care and proof of loss
Get prompt medical assessment and keep visit summaries, imaging reports, prescriptions, receipts, and follow-up instructions. Do not delay treatment to negotiate with an insurer. Keep a dated log of symptoms, missed work or travel, assistance required, and out-of-pocket expenses. Ask the provider for copies of records through the proper channel.
Responsibility, insurance, and resolution
Identify each vehicle owner, driver, and insurer. A traffic accident determination and later civil assessment may address different questions; do not assume that an initial discussion resolves every claim. The Supreme People’s Court published a second interpretation on road-traffic accident compensation disputes in 2026, following earlier guidance. Its application can depend on the claim and parties involved. The court has also described cases involving compulsory traffic insurance and allocation of losses.
Before accepting a final settlement, check which injuries and expenses it covers, whether future treatment is included, who is paying, and what rights are released. A signature, translated release, or insurer form may have lasting effects.
Documents to organize
- Passport or identity documents and current contact details.
- Police report, accident determination, photos, and witness information.
- Medical records, receipts, prescriptions, and proof of travel or wage loss.
- Vehicle and insurance details, claim numbers, and all settlement communications.
Sources: Supreme People’s Court 2026 Interpretation II on road-traffic accident compensation disputes; SPC traffic-accident guiding cases; Civil Code.
