In 2010, the Newark Police Department changed their official policy about sending radio patrol cars to routine traffic accidents. According to a memo from the Operations Bureau of the police department, "radio cars shall not be dispatched to motor vehicle accidents involving no injury and minor damage." 

So, what is a person supposed to do if they are involved in a car accident in Newark NJ?

There are 6 simple rules to follow.

1. Call the police. If you are injured tell the police. If you require medical attention ask them to send an ambulance. 

2. Get the other driver's name, address, driver's license number and license plate number. 

3. Use the camera on your cell phone to take pictures of the vehicles involved in the accident, as well as the insurance card and driver's license of the other driver and the license plate of the other car. 

4. If you were injured go to the nearest Emergency Room to seek medical attention.

5. If the police failed to show up at the scene of the accident, go to a local police precinct to fill out a report

6. Report the accident to your own insurance company also notifying them of any injuries

Unfortunately, as local cities and towns become more stressed financially, we may see other municipalities refusing to allow their police officers to respond to routine traffic accidents. The failure of police to respond to an accident scene can make it more difficult to pursue a claim if you have been injured, especially where there are conflicting versions of how the accident occurred.

If you have been involved in an accident in Newark and the police do not respond follow the steps we have outlined above and call us anytime at 908-353-5850, we can help.