After a car accident in New Jersey, things can feel chaotic—especially if you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, or figuring out how to file a claim. But one of the most important things you can do early on is get a copy of the crash report. It might seem like a small detail, but this document plays a huge role in insurance claims and legal cases. So, how do you get a copy of the crash report for a New Jersey car accident?
Let’s walk through it together, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect and how to protect your rights.
What Is a New Jersey Crash Report and Why Does It Matter?
The New Jersey Police Crash Investigation Report (NJTR-1) is the official document prepared by law enforcement after a car accident. It includes key information like:
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- Weather and road conditions
- Driver and witness statements
- Diagrams of how the crash happened
- Citations or suspected violations
- Whether medical attention was needed
If you're filing an insurance claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, this report can be critical evidence. Insurance companies, attorneys, and even judges rely on crash reports to determine fault and validate injuries or damages.
Similar Post: 10 Things You Need to Do After a Car Accident
How to Get a Copy of a New Jersey Crash Report
There are a few different ways to request a crash report in New Jersey, depending on who responded to the scene and how long ago the accident occurred.
1. Online via the New Jersey State Police Portal
If the New Jersey State Police responded to the accident (typically on highways or interstates), you can request the report online at:
You’ll need at least one of the following to search for your report:
- Case number
- Last name of an involved party
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Date of the accident
Note: Reports are usually available 14 business days after the crash. There’s a $5-$13 fee per report, depending on where the crash occurred. You’ll receive a downloadable PDF.
2. Through the Local Police Department
If your accident happened on a local road and was handled by a municipal police department, you’ll need to contact that department directly.
Here’s what to do:
- Call or visit the department’s records office
- Provide the accident date, location, and names of drivers involved
- Ask if there’s a fee (most charge a small administrative fee, usually under $15)
- Find out if you can pick it up in person or request it by mail
Some towns also allow you to request reports through their websites.
3. By Mail Using Form OPRA
If you'd rather request your crash report the old-fashioned way, you can submit an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request to the New Jersey State Police.
Here’s how:
1. Obtain the Appropriate OPRA Request Form:
Visit the New Jersey State Police's OPRA Requests page to access the relevant form.
2. Complete the Form with Accurate Details:
Fill in all required fields, including:
- Your full name and contact information.
- Specific details of the crash:
- Date and time of the accident.
- Exact location (e.g., street address or intersection).
- Names of involved parties, if known.
Specify that you are requesting the "Motor Vehicle Accident Report."
4. Include the Required Fee:
Check off your preferred payment method for the request. Options include cash, check, or money order. The custodian will contact you to collect payment after your request is received, but before processing begins.
Fees are typically as follows:
- $0.05 per letter-sized page.
- $0.07 per legal-sized page.
5. Await Processing:
The agency has up to seven business days to respond to your request after receiving it.
Note that obtaining the report by mail may take several weeks, depending on processing times and mail delivery.
Important Considerations:
- Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
- Some agencies may offer the option to submit OPRA requests online or in person; check with the specific agency for alternative submission methods.
- Retain copies of all correspondence and submitted forms for your records.
By following these steps, you can successfully request and obtain a copy of your New Jersey car accident crash report by mail through the OPRA process.
What If You Were Injured and Need the Crash Report Fast?
If you're injured and considering legal action, you may not want to wait. That’s where your personal injury attorney can help. At Camili & Capo, we routinely obtain crash reports for our clients. We’ll request the report, analyze it, and use it to build a strong foundation for your case.
Plus, if there are errors in the report or information that doesn’t line up with your experience, we’ll take the necessary steps to challenge or clarify those issues. You don’t have to handle this alone.
Similar Post: Common Injuries Sustained in a Car Accident
What Happens If the Crash Report Has Errors?
Crash reports are written by officers at the scene, often in high-stress situations. While most reports are accurate, mistakes can happen. You might find:
- Incorrect vehicle or driver information
- A missed witness statement
- Conflicting explanations of how the crash occurred
If the report contains errors that could affect your case, you can ask for a correction. This isn’t always easy, but a lawyer can help gather supporting evidence and request an amendment. Even if a correction isn’t possible, we can help explain the inconsistencies and build your case around them.
Do You Always Need a Crash Report to File a Claim?
Not necessarily. For very minor fender benders with no injuries or damage, a crash report may not be required. But if:
- You were injured
- There was significant vehicle damage
- Another driver was clearly at fault
- You plan to sue
…then the crash report becomes incredibly important.
Even if the insurance company says they’ll “take care of everything,” it’s wise to have your own copy of the crash report. It can make a huge difference in how your claim is handled—and how much compensation you receive.
What If the Police Didn’t File a Report?
If the police weren’t called, or if they refused to file a report (which sometimes happens in minor crashes), you can still file your own report through the New Jersey Self-Reporting Crash Form—but only if:
- No one was injured
- The damage was less than $500
- The accident didn’t involve public property or a commercial vehicle
However, if injuries were involved or you later discover damages, contact a lawyer. We can help assess whether a late police report or supplemental documentation can support your claim.
Can an Attorney Get the Crash Report for Me?
Yes—and we strongly recommend it.
At Camili & Capo, we make it easy for clients to focus on healing while we handle the paperwork. That includes requesting the crash report, gathering medical records, documenting injuries, and dealing with the insurance company.
We don’t just get the crash report—we build your entire case around it.
How Do You Get a Copy of the Crash Report for a New Jersey Car Accident? Start with a Call to Camili & Capo
We get it—after an accident, there’s a lot to deal with. But getting a copy of your crash report shouldn’t be a headache. Whether you were rear-ended, T-boned, or involved in a hit-and-run, having the official police report is essential to protecting your rights.
And if you're worried about missing something—or you're not sure what to do next—we’re here to help.
Call Camili & Capo today at (973) 834-8457 for a free consultation. We’ll get your crash report, review your case, and fight for the compensation you need. We represent clients in Clifton, Hawthorne, Little Falls, and the surrounding areas.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.
