How to get a copy of your crash report or a more detailed accident report in New Jersey

Short answer: Yes — in New Jersey most police crash/accident reports are public records and you can request copies from the law enforcement agency that handled the crash or by using New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act (OPRA). Some parts of a report may be redacted or withheld for privacy or investigative reasons. If you need more detailed materials (witness statements, photos, body-cam video), you may have to request them separately, appeal a denial, or seek them through litigation.

Detailed Answer

1. What documents exist after a crash?

• Police crash/accident report (officer’s narrative, diagrams, parties/vehicles, injury severity).
• Supplemental reports or follow-up notes created by the investigating officer.
• Evidence files (photos, video, witness statements, tow records) — these may be kept as part of the investigative record.
• Copies forwarded to state agencies (motor vehicle or traffic safety units) for statistical or licensing purposes.

2. Who to contact to get a copy

Start with the law enforcement agency that responded to the crash (city/town police, county sheriff, or state police). The Records or Records/Reports Division handles requests for crash reports. You can also contact your insurance company — they often request reports directly from police and can provide a copy to you.

3. How to make the request (step-by-step)

1. Identify the responding agency (look up the municipality where the crash happened).
2. Gather details: date and approximate time of the crash, location, names of drivers, and the police report number (if known).
3. Contact the police records office by phone, website, or in person. Many departments post a records request form online.
4. Make a written request under New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act (OPRA) if you want a formal request. See the state OPRA page: https://www.nj.gov/opra/.
5. Pay any copying fees. Municipalities may charge reasonable fees for paper or electronic copies.

4. Timing and response

OPRA requires public agencies to respond to records requests promptly. Under OPRA procedures agencies typically must respond within seven business days to either provide the record, deny the request in writing, or provide a reasonable date when the record will be available. For details and guidance see the New Jersey OPRA information page: https://www.nj.gov/opra/.

5. What can be withheld or redacted?

Even though crash reports are generally public, agencies may redact or withhold certain material for legitimate reasons, including:

• Information that would interfere with an active criminal investigation.
• Confidential personal information (Social Security numbers, medical records, certain juvenile records).
• Witness statements or other investigative records while an investigation is ongoing.

If part of a record is withheld, the agency should provide a written denial or explanation and indicate if any portion will be released later.

6. If you want more than the standard crash report

Request supplemental materials separately and be specific — e.g., “photographs taken at the scene,” “officer’s notes,” or “witness statements.” Agencies may treat those items as investigative records and resist immediate release. If an agency denies access, you can appeal the denial to the New Jersey Government Records Council (GRC) or pursue relief in Superior Court. GRC information: https://www.state.nj.us/grc/.

7. Using reports for an insurance claim or lawsuit

Insurance companies routinely obtain crash reports. If you are pursuing a personal injury claim or lawsuit, your attorney (or the court through discovery or a subpoena) can usually obtain investigative materials that were withheld from public disclosure. If you need evidence for litigation and the agency refuses to release it, a subpoena or court order may be necessary.

8. Fees

Municipalities may charge copying fees and fees for redaction or certification. Fees must be reasonable. If you request a large volume of records, expect higher copying or labor charges.

9. Helpful statutory and official resources

• New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA) information and how to submit requests: https://www.nj.gov/opra/ (OPRA is codified at N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq.).
• New Jersey Government Records Council (appeals and guidance): https://www.state.nj.us/grc/.
• New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (for state motor vehicle resources): https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/.

Helpful Hints

• Ask the responding officer for the police report number at the scene if possible — it speeds requests later.
• If you can’t identify the correct police agency, search by the crash location’s municipality and contact that town’s police department.
• Be specific in your OPRA request: list the date, location, report number, and the exact items you want (e.g., “photos,” “officer’s narrative”).
• Keep records of your request and any emails or receipts. If the agency denies access, ask for a written explanation.
• If you need witness statements or investigative materials and they are withheld, consult an attorney early — a lawyer can issue subpoenas or include proper discovery requests if you file a lawsuit.
• If the report contains inaccuracies, notify the responding agency in writing and keep copies of any corrections you request.
• Insurance companies often obtain crash reports faster; ask your adjuster to request the report and share a copy with you.

What if my request is denied?

If an agency denies your request in whole or part, you can:

1. Ask the agency for a written denial stating the legal basis for withholding the record.
2. File an appeal with the New Jersey Government Records Council: https://www.state.nj.us/grc/.
3. Pursue judicial review in New Jersey Superior Court if appropriate.

Disclaimer: This article explains general New Jersey procedures and is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. If you have a dispute about access to records or are involved in a claim, consider speaking with a licensed New Jersey attorney who can advise you about your specific situation.