What Does It Mean if No Ticket Is Issued After a Car Accident in NJ?

Car accidents can be stressful and confusing, especially when trying to determine fault and liability. If no ticket is issued after a crash, you might wonder what that means for your case. Does it mean no one is at fault? Does it affect your ability to recover damages? If you’ve been injured in a New Jersey car accident and no citation was given, here’s what you need to know.

Why Would the Police Not Issue a Ticket for a Crash?

Police officers responding to a car accident scene assess the situation and determine whether a traffic violation occurred. However, they don’t always issue citations. Here’s why:

• They Didn’t Witness the Crash – If an officer didn’t see the accident happen and there’s conflicting information from drivers, they might not issue a ticket.
• Lack of Clear Evidence – If neither driver admits fault and there are no witnesses or video footage, the officer may not be able to determine a violation occurred.
• Both Drivers Share Blame – In cases of comparative negligence, both parties might be somewhat responsible, making it difficult to issue a single citation.
• Minor or No Injuries – If the crash doesn’t involve significant injuries or property damage, officers may decide a ticket is unnecessary.
• Drivers Don’t Call the Police – In New Jersey, if an accident results in injury, death, or property damage over $500, drivers must report it (N.J.S.A. 39:4-130). If police aren’t called, no ticket can be issued.

What Does It Mean if No Ticket Is Issued for a Car Accident?

Many people assume that if no ticket is issued, no one is at fault. That’s not true. A ticket is just one piece of evidence and does not determine liability in a civil case. Even without a citation, you may still be able to prove the other driver was negligent through other means, such as:

• Eyewitness statements from passengers or bystanders
• Surveillance or dashcam footage
• Accident reconstruction reports
• Damage analysis showing the likely point of impact
• Medical records linking your injuries to the crash

In personal injury cases, the burden of proof is lower than in criminal cases. Even without a ticket, you can still hold the at-fault driver accountable. Your attorney can help collect additional evidence, such as phone records (to prove distracted driving), toxicology reports, or even GPS data, to build a strong case.

How Insurance Companies Handle Accidents Without Tickets

Insurance companies look at all available evidence when determining liability. While a traffic ticket can strengthen a claim, it’s not the deciding factor. Insurers will typically examine the following:

• Police Reports – Even without a ticket, a police report can provide important details.
  
• Statements from Drivers and Witnesses – Contradictory stories may lead to a deeper investigation.
  
• Physical Evidence – Damage patterns, skid marks, and accident scene photos can be crucial.
  
• New Jersey’s Comparative Negligence Law – Under N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1, if you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.

Insurance adjusters will often attempt to minimize payouts, especially if there’s no clear citation against the other driver. A personal injury lawyer can negotiate with insurers and prevent them from unfairly reducing your settlement.

Steps to Take After an Accident, Even Without a Ticket

Even if no ticket is issued, take these steps to protect your rights:

• Document Everything – Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
• Get Witness Information – If anyone saw the crash, get their contact details.
• Seek Medical Attention – Even minor injuries should be documented.
• Request a Copy of the Police Report – You can obtain this from the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission or the local police department.
• Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident but avoid making statements that could be used against you.
• Consult a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer – An attorney can help build a strong case even if no ticket was issued.

Taking these steps can ensure that crucial evidence is preserved. Additionally, obtaining repair estimates, medical diagnoses, and even journaling about the pain and suffering caused by the accident can help demonstrate the full impact of the crash on your life.

Can You Still Sue for Damages If No Ticket Is Issued?

Yes. A ticket is not required to file a personal injury lawsuit. In New Jersey, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2). If your injuries result in medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, you may be entitled to compensation.

Contact a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer

If you were involved in an accident and no ticket was issued, don’t assume you have no case. The attorneys at Rosengard Law Group have extensive experience handling complex car accident claims in New Jersey. We’ll investigate the accident, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Our firm has helped countless accident victims recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we work aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable.