Bergen Co., NJ - Wrong-Way Driver Causes Multi-Vehicle Crash on Rt 17
Bergen Co., NJ (August 23, 2025) – A wrong-way driver from Rockland County is facing charges after causing a multi-vehicle crash late Friday night on Route 17, authorities confirmed.
The incident happened shortly before 11 p.m. on August 22, when a 64-year-old man from New City, N.Y., entered the northbound lanes of Route 17 at Hollywood Avenue in Ho-Ho-Kus while driving south in a Honda HR-V. Ramsey police officers had attempted to stop the driver moments earlier, though the reason for the initial pursuit has not yet been disclosed.
According to Ridgewood Police Capt. Glenn Ender, the HR-V collided with an Amazon Prime tractor-trailer and a Honda Odyssey minivan near Race Track Road. The impact forced the tractor-trailer through the concrete center divider, spilling fuel and causing significant traffic disruption.
Four people were hospitalized following the crash, including the wrong-way driver, who was taken into custody. Three others were transported to The Valley Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, all injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.
The crash left northbound Route 17 traffic diverted onto Race Track Road, while southbound lanes were reduced to one lane as emergency crews worked to clear the scene. The New Jersey Department of Transportation repaired the damaged divider, and the Bergen County Hazardous Materials Unit cleaned up the fuel spill.
All three vehicles involved were towed from the highway. Ramsey police have filed charges against the driver, with additional counts expected from Ridgewood authorities.
We wish those hurt in this incident a swift recovery.
New Jersey Car Accidents
Every day on New Jersey’s roads, drivers and passengers are injured in crashes that could change the course of their lives. From high-speed collisions on major highways to fender-benders on suburban streets, motor vehicle accidents remain a serious concern across the state. Too often, these incidents lead to painful injuries, long recoveries, and lasting financial strain for victims and their families.
The causes behind many of these accidents are preventable. Speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, and impaired operation continue to be among the most common factors. When drivers fail to exercise caution and responsibility, the results can be devastating for everyone involved.
Beyond the immediate physical harm, the aftermath of an injury crash can feel overwhelming. Victims may face mounting medical expenses, weeks or months away from work, costly vehicle repairs, and the emotional trauma of the event. For many families, these challenges bring an added layer of stress during an already difficult time.
That’s why having a skilled New Jersey car accident attorney by your side can make all the difference.
At Stern & Stern, we’ve spent more than 40 years standing up for injury victims across New Jersey. Our experienced car crash lawyers know how to handle the complexities of auto accident cases and is committed to pursuing the maximum compensation available. Whether you’ve suffered whiplash, broken bones, or more serious injuries, we are here to protect your rights and help you move forward.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, don’t try to navigate the road to recovery alone. Call Stern & Stern today at (201) 569-2222 or click the link above to schedule a consultation. Let us fight for the justice and financial support you deserve.
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.