Motor Vehicle Crash Reports
Motor Vehicle Crash Report Information
If you need a copy of a crash report you may obtain a copy from the Records Bureau, located in the police department’s main lobby. Reports are usually completed five to seven business days after the date of the crash. Please call the Records Bureau before you respond to headquarters to confirm that your report is complete. There is a charge for the crash report.
You may also access your crash report via the internet. Please note, there is also a charge for this service. While accessing the website simply enter your last name, date of the crash, and the incident report number.
Child Safety Seat Installation
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 14 and under in the United States. Child safety seats and safety belts, when installed and used correctly, can prevent injuries and save lives. Young children restrained in child safety seats have an 80 percent lower risk of fatal injury than those who are unrestrained.
The Hopatcong Police Department has certified child safety seat technicians authorized to install and inspect any child safety seat to include booster seats. To set up an appointment for assistance in the installation or an inspection of your child’s seat(s) at no charge contact Sergeant Anthony Cirri at acirri@hopatcongpolice.org or Patrolman Peter Zabita at pzabita@hopatcongpolice.org.
Towing and Summons Information
If your vehicle was towed from the crash you are responsible for all towing charges and any storage fees that may occur (may be covered by insurance based on coverage and provider). If you received a Motor Vehicle Crash Sheet from the officer at the time of the crash and your vehicle was towed, the tow company that has your vehicle will be indicated on the lower portion of that form. Hopatcong Borough typically uses four towing companies:
C & L Towing Service, 848 Route 46 East, Kenvil, NJ
973-386-9866
JC & Daughters, 1856 Route 46 East, Ledgewood, NJ
973-584-9111
Richie’s Towing, 25 Taylor Rd, Wharton, NJ 973-366-2404
Ron & Sons, 524 Route 46, Kenvil, NJ 973-927-9194
If you received a traffic summons you must read the bottom of the summons. This will explain your rights and responsibilities in detail. A summons issued for a motor vehicle crash with an injury will require a court appearance. You must contact the court at least seven days before the notice to appear date on the front of the summons if you intend to plead not guilty. You have a right to issue a summons to the other driver within 30 days of the crash. The Hopatcong Borough Municipal Court may be contacted at 973-770-1200.
Once a summons is issued only the court can address a summons. As soon as possible, notify your insurance company that you were involved in a crash. Your insurance company will advise you how to file a claim if necessary.
