If you have been involved in a car accident in New Jersey, it’s important to understand the steps you must take to ensure your well-being and protect your rights. One of the first steps you should take following a collision is contacting the police. When law enforcement officers arrive on the scene, they will likely write a police report containing vital information for your claim. Please continue reading to learn the importance of filing a police report following an accident and why connecting with a determined Morris County Car Accident Attorney is in your best interest.
Should I File a Police Report After an Accident?
In New Jersey, it’s important to understand that when an accident results in substantial property damage, an injury, or a fatality, you are legally required to report the accident to law enforcement. However, even if you are not legally obligated to contact the police, doing so has several benefits.
A police report will record pertinent details about the crash, including the time date, locations, directions of both vehicles, and the names of witnesses and involved parties. This information can be used to help establish liability for the collision. Without a police report preserving facts and evidence, it can be difficult to determine fault.
How Can I Obtain a Copy?
As mentioned above, after an accident, the responding officer will create an official report detailing the facts of the crash. Unlike other court records, police reports are not considered public records.
There are several ways in which you can obtain your report. The first option is to visit the police department in person. You can make a request in person in the municipality where the accident occurred. However, you should contact the police department before arriving at their office to ensure that your report is available.
If you don’t want to go to the police department, you can mail in your request or request a copy of your report online. The police department will send a certified accident report to you through the mail. It’s important to note that there will be an additional fee associated with obtaining this record.
As you can see, filing a police report after an accident is crucial. If you have been injured in a collision, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced Morris County car accident attorney who can guide you through the claims process, every step of the way. We are prepared to effectively represent your interests and fight for the justice you deserve. Connect with our firm today to learn more about how we can help you during this difficult time.