If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, obtaining a copy of the accident report is a crucial step.
This document plays a vital role in insurance claims and legal proceedings, as it can help establish fault, detail damages, and serve as key evidence in a personal injury lawsuit.
Why an Accident Report Matters
A police report provides an official account of the crash, including:
· Liability assessment: It can help prove negligence by documenting details about how the accident occurred.
· Damage and injuries: It includes descriptions of vehicle damage, injuries sustained, and any contributing factors like road conditions or traffic violations.
· Legal and insurance support: Insurers and attorneys often rely on accident reports when determining compensation.
When and How to File an Accident Report in New Jersey
In New Jersey, you are required to file an accident report within 10 days if the crash resulted in:
· Injuries or fatalities
· Property damage exceeding $500
How to Obtain a Copy of Your Accident Report
The process for obtaining a crash report varies depending on where the accident occurred. Here’s how you can request one:
1. Local Police Department
· Visit the police department where the accident was reported.
· Request to inspect or copy the report during business hours.
· Pay a small fee as required by law.
2. New Jersey State Police Accidents
· By phone: Call the New Jersey State Police at 609-882-2000 (non-emergency) with your case number ready.
· Online: For crashes on the New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway, visit NJ State Police Crash Reports. Reports cost $5 and may take up to 14 business days for processing.
3. Accidents on Specific Highways
· Atlantic City Expressway: Submit a written request to the Atlantic City Expressway Authority if your crash occurred on this roadway.
· New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway: To obtain an electronic copy of a crash report if your accident occurred on these roadways visit https://www.njportal.com/njsp/crashreports/.
· Fatal Accidents: Complete an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request.
4. City or Township Roads
· Contact the records clerk at the police department in the city or township where the crash took place.
Final Thoughts
Getting a copy of your accident report is a critical step in protecting your rights after a crash. Whether you need it for an insurance claim or legal case, acting quickly and following the correct procedure will help ensure you have the necessary documentation.
If you are considering a personal injury claim, consulting with an attorney can help you navigate the process and maximize your compensation.
Cooper Levenson is a full-service law firm established in 1957. Kathleen F. Beers, Esq. handles personal injury law and can be reached at kbeers@cooperlevenson.com or (609) 572-7570. Visit our blog at https://blog.cooperlevenson.com/ for more information.