How to Read an Accident Report: A Step-by-Step Guide for NJ Victims

A car accident turns your life upside down in an instant. Amidst the shock and potential injuries, understanding what happened is crucial, not just for your peace of mind, but also for any potential personal injury claim. A New Jersey police accident report is a key piece of this puzzle. But these reports can be confusing. 

This guide will walk you through the key sections of a New Jersey accident report, empowering you to understand its contents and take the next steps.

Where to Obtain an Accident Report in New Jersey

After an accident, the responding police department will typically create a report. In New Jersey, you can usually obtain a copy of this report a few days after the incident. Note that it’s essential to obtain a copy of the NJTR-1 report for your records.

Here’s how:

• Online: You can request the report through the New Jersey State Police’s online portal: NJSP Crash Reports. This is often the quickest and most convenient method.
  
• In-Person: You can usually request a copy of the report in person from the records department of the police department that investigated the accident. Be prepared to provide information such as the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as your name and involvement.
  
• By Mail: Some departments allow requests by mail. Check their website for specific instructions and required documentation.

There may be a small fee associated with obtaining a copy of the report.

Key Sections of an Accident Report

The NJTR-1 report is structured to capture detailed information about the accident. Here’s a breakdown of its key sections:

1. Basic Information

This section provides an overview of the accident:

• Location: Street address, city, and state where the accident occurred.
• Date and Time: When the accident took place.
• Case Number: Assigned by the investigating police department.
• Investigating Officer Details: Name and badge number of the officer.

2. Driver Information

Details about each driver involved:

• Full Name, Address, and Date of Birth
• Driver’s License Number and State
• Insurance Carrier and Policy Number
• Vehicle Owner’s Information (if different from the driver)

3. Vehicle Information

Specifics about the vehicles involved:

• Make, Model, Year, and Color
• License Plate Number and State
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Damage Description (areas and extent of damage)
• Towing Information (if applicable)

4. Occupant Information

Information about passengers in the vehicles:

• Names and Addresses
• Seating Positions
• Injury Status (type and severity of injuries)
• Safety Equipment Used (e.g., seatbelts, airbags)

5. Accident Description and Diagram

The investigating officer’s narrative and visual representation:

• Narrative: A written account detailing how the accident occurred, the factors involved, and any citations issued.
  
• Diagram: A sketch showing the positions of vehicles before, during, and after the collision, including road configurations and traffic control devices.

6. Contributing Circumstances

Factors that may have contributed to the accident:

• Driver Actions: E.g., speeding, cell phone usage, distracted driving.
• Vehicle Conditions: E.g., brake failure, tire issues.
• Environmental Factors: E.g., weather conditions, road surface.

7. Witness Information

Details of any witnesses:

• Names and Contact Information
• Statements summarizing what witnesses observed

8. Additional Data

Other pertinent information:

• Road Conditions: Lighting, surface type, and conditions at the time of the accident.
• Traffic Control Devices: Presence and functioning of signals, signs, etc.
• Alcohol/Drug Involvement: Results of any tests administered.

Understanding the NJTR-1 Overlay Codes

The NJTR-1 report utilizes specific codes to succinctly convey detailed information. Familiarity with these codes can enhance your understanding of the report:

Crash Type (Box 105)

Identifies the nature of the collision:

• 01: Rear-end collision
• 02: Side Swipe (Same Direction)
• 03: Right Angle Crash
• 04: Head-On Collision
• 05: Side swipe (Opposite Direction)
• 06: Struck Parked Vehicle
• 07: Left Turn/U-Turn Crash
• 08: Backing Collision
• 09: Encroachment
• 10: Overturned Vehicle
• 11: Collision with a Fixed Object
• 12: Collision with an Animal
• 13: Pedestrian collision
• 14: Bicycle collision
• 15: Collision with a Non-Fixed Object

Contributing Circumstances (Boxes 118a & 118b)

Factors perceived to have contributed to the accident:

• 01: Unsafe Speed
• 02: Driver Inattention
• 03: Failure to Obey Traffic Signal
• 04: Failure to Yield Right of Way
• 05: Improper Lane Change
• 06: Improper Passing
• 07: Failure to Use Turn Signal
• 08: Improper Turning
• 09: Following Too Closely
• 10: Backing Unsafely

What to Do if You Don’t Agree with the Report

If you find inaccuracies or disagree with the information in the accident report, you have options:

• Contact the Police Department: Reach out to the investigating officer or the records department and explain your concerns. Provide any supporting documentation you have, such as photos or witness statements.
  
• Obtain Your Own Evidence: Gather your own evidence to support your version of events. This might include photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records.
  
• Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand the implications of the accident report and advise you on the best course of action.

Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Understanding the accident report is just one piece of the puzzle. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer at Rosengard Law Group is crucial. We can help you:

• Interpret the Accident Report: We can analyze the report and explain its implications for your case.
• Investigate the Accident: We can conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence and determine fault.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: We can handle communications with insurance companies and fight for a fair settlement.
• Represent You in Court: If necessary, we can represent you in court to pursue your claim for damages.

Important New Jersey Statutes to Be Aware Of:

• Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims: Victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2)
  
• Comparative Negligence Law: According to comparative negligence law, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you may not be eligible for compensation. (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1)
  
• PIP (Personal Injury Protection) Coverage: New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own insurance covers medical expenses regardless of fault. (N.J.S.A. 39:6A-4)

Contact our experienced auto accident attorneys today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.