In New Jersey, almost every motor vehicle accident requires a police response. Their report would include the date and location of the collision, the vehicles involved, and the cause of the accident. Fortunately, getting a police report in New Jersey is a straightforward matter. Going to the police department in the municipality where the crash occurred during business hours is the easiest way to obtain it. However, other options are available.
When it comes to car insurance, New Jersey is a no-fault state. That means an accident victim’s car insurance will pay the medical bills. However, if their injuries were serious and they were not at fault for the crash, they may file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. Obtaining a police report is the initial step when determining whether to file a lawsuit. The auto accident lawyers at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, & Graifman, P.C. can help you through the process and answer any of your questions.
How to Access New Jersey Police Report
Besides going to the municipal police department during business hours, you can access a New Jersey police report by mailing a crash report request. This form is available online on the website of the relevant police department. A certified report is then sent by mail or fax.
If the accident occurred on the New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway or in a jurisdiction covered by the New Jersey State Police, you could make an online request for the police report. For more information, contact the New Jersey Turnpike Authority Operations Department at (732) 442-8600 ext. 2431.
You can request police reports with a $13 payment by credit or debit card. When making an online request, you must provide the last name of the person involved or the license plate number. If you have the police report case number, you can use that as well.
Police Report Information
In addition to the information already noted, a police report should contain:
- Conditions at the time of the crash.
- Address and contact information for the drivers involved.
- Insurance information for the parties involved.
- Information on any passengers injured or killed.
- Traffic violations noted at the time of the accident, such as driving under the influence.
- Whether drivers were using cell phones at the time of the collision.
- Witness information.
Contact a Bergen County NJ Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you know was seriously injured in a car accident in New Jersey, you need the services of the experienced auto accident attorneys at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, & Graifman, P.C. Contact us today and arrange a free, no-obligation consultation. Because we work on a contingency basis, you pay no fee unless you receive compensation.