Hackensack, NJ – Car Hits Police Detective at Summit Ave & American Legion Dr
Hackensack, NJ (November 6, 2025) – On Wednesday, November 5, authorities responded to a traffic accident with serious injuries involving a Hackensack police detective at the intersection of Summit Avenue and American Legion Drive in Hackensack.
According to Hackensack Police Capt. Darrin DeWitt, Detective Michael Koenig was directing traffic at approximately 9 a.m. when he instructed the driver of a small Toyota SUV to turn left from American Legion Drive to head south on Summit Avenue. The vehicle struck Koenig, causing him to sustain injuries.
Emergency medical services transported Detective Koenig to a nearby hospital. Police reported that he was conscious and alert at the scene but complained of body pain. No additional information about the driver or potential charges has been released at this time. Hackensack Police Department officers continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Traffic delays were reported in the area while the scene was secured and cleared.
We hope the injured victim makes a smooth and full recovery.
Pedestrian Accidents and Safety in Bergen County
Pedestrian accidents, including those involving law enforcement personnel, can happen anywhere vehicles and foot traffic intersect, though busy intersections, crosswalks, and areas near schools or commercial zones are especially high-risk. These accidents often occur when drivers fail to remain fully attentive to their surroundings. Common contributing factors include driver distraction from cell phones or other devices, speeding, failure to yield the right of way, abrupt lane changes, and improper turns.
Environmental conditions can also increase risk; low visibility during early morning or nighttime hours, fog, heavy rain, or snow can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Additionally, impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, dramatically increases the likelihood of collisions and often leads to more severe injuries.
Even when pedestrians or traffic officers are following all safety procedures, collisions can still result in serious and sometimes life-altering injuries. Common injuries include fractures, head trauma, internal organ damage, and long-term mobility impairments. Beyond physical harm, these accidents can cause significant financial strain due to medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and loss of income. Emotional and psychological effects, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress, can also have a lasting impact on victims and their families.
Preventing pedestrian accidents requires a combination of driver awareness, strict adherence to traffic laws, and careful, attentive driving. Pedestrians and traffic officers can further reduce risk by wearing high-visibility clothing, using designated crosswalks, and remaining alert to surrounding traffic. When accidents do occur, victims may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, long-term care needs, and pain and suffering.
Legal support is often essential, particularly in cases involving serious injuries, to help victims understand their rights, navigate insurance claims, and pursue fair compensation. A pedestrian accident lawyer can also investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and hold negligent drivers accountable, ensuring that victims receive the financial and legal support they need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
At Stern & Stern in Englewood Cliffs, we provide guidance and support to help victims navigate the aftermath of pedestrian accidents. Our legal team is ready to take on your case and help you get the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
Call us today at (201) 569-2222 for a free and confidential consultation.
Notes: Stern&Stern, LLP utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. If you find any information that is inaccurate or incorrect, please contact Stern&Stern, LLP. We will update the post promptly to reflect the most accurate details available.
Disclaimers: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene.