How Long After a Car Accident Can You File a Police Report in New Jersey?

You must file an accident report within 10 days after the car crash in New Jersey. The police report has important details about the accident and is needed for insurance and your personal records.

New Jersey law requires you to report any traffic accident that results in injury, property damage over $500, or death to the police. If you were involved in an accident, a Newark car accident lawyer will help you file a police report on time. The sooner you call a lawyer, the more time they can dedicate to your case.

The Deadline for Filing a Police Report

In New Jersey, you are required to file a police report within 10 days of the accident, according to N.J. Stat. § 39:4-130. This deadline is not just a bureaucratic formality; it is crucial for both legal and insurance purposes.

Filing the report within this time frame helps protect your rights as an accident victim. It ensures that all necessary details surrounding the incident are documented accurately and in a timely manner.

Timely reporting of the accident allows law enforcement to investigate the scene while evidence is still fresh, which can be vital for establishing fault and understanding the circumstances that led to the crash. This includes gathering witness statements, assessing vehicle damage, and documenting any relevant environmental factors.

When is it Mandatory to File a Report in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, it is mandatory to file a police report if your accident results in serious injury, death, or property damage that exceeds $500. This requirement is designed to ensure that significant incidents are officially documented, providing a clear and objective account of what happened during the accident.

What Happens if Police Arrive at the Scene?

If the police arrive at the scene of an accident, they will assess the situation. They may ask questions to understand what happened and will likely speak with everyone involved, including drivers and any witnesses.

The officers will also check for the most common car accident injuries and ensure that everyone is safe. After gathering the necessary information, the police will create an on-scene report detailing their observations, which can be critical for any future legal or insurance claims.

Filing a Report After Leaving the Scene

If a report was not completed at the scene (perhaps due to the absence of law enforcement or if it was a minor accident), you still have options. After leaving the scene, you can file a report with your local police department. Do this as soon as possible, preferably within the 10-day window set by New Jersey law.

Steps to file a report if one wasn’t made at the car accident scene:

• Gather information: Collect any documentation related to the collision, including photographs, witness statements, and details about the vehicles involved.
• Visit the local police department: Go to the police department in the area where the accident occurred.
• Request to file a report: Ask to file a report regarding the accident. Provide all necessary information and any documentation you have.
• Complete the report: Work with the officer to complete the report accurately.

A Police Report Strengthens Your Car Accident Claim

In addition to protecting your legal rights, filing a police report within the required timeframe also plays a significant role in the insurance claims process. Insurance companies often request a copy of the police report when assessing claims, as it provides an objective account of the accident.

Having this documentation readily available can expedite the claims process and help you receive the compensation you need for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses.

What Happens if You Don’t File the Police Report on Time?

Failing to file the report within the 10-day window can lead to complications, such as the inability to file an insurance claim or having your claim denied due to lack of documentation. Additionally, if you decide to take legal action, a delayed report may weaken your position in court, as it could raise questions about the credibility of your account of the events.

Consult a Local Car Accident Lawyer for Further Guidance with the Police Report

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with police reports. Consult a local car accident lawyer for valuable assistance. They can help you understand what information you need to provide and how it affects your case.

If you’re unsure whether the police report is complete or accurate, a lawyer can review it and identify any missing information or errors that could impact your case. Also, filing a police report is just one part of the process. A lawyer can guide you through any legal steps that follow, ensuring you meet deadlines and adhere to local laws.

Morelli Law Firm has been serving injury victims since 1998. Our team will tell you everything you need to know to make confident decisions about your case. Call today to schedule a free consultation.