Bus Strikes Two Pedestrians on State St in Hackensack, NJ

Hackensack, NJ (September 9, 2026) – A New Jersey Transit bus struck two women crossing State Street near East Mercer Street in Hackensack Tuesday evening, September 8, leaving one with serious injuries.

Both women were legally crossing the street just before 6:30 p.m. when the bus struck them. The 30-year-old Ridgefield resident became pinned beneath one of the bus's wheels and was seriously hurt, while the 29-year-old Palisades Park woman was injured but not as severely.

A group of off-duty emergency personnel from the Hackensack Fire Department happened to be nearby and used an airbag device to lift the bus and free the trapped woman. Neither woman's injuries were considered life-threatening, and both were taken to Hackensack University Medical Center for treatment.

The bus driver received a citation for failing to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk, according to authorities. The investigation into the collision remains active. 

We're thinking of both women as they recover from their injuries.

Can You Sue NJ Transit After a Bus Accident in Hackensack, NJ?

Yes, but claims in Hackensack against NJ Transit (which is a state-run public entity) are governed by the New Jersey Tort Claims Act rather than standard personal injury rules. 

These claims are handled differently than a typical private vehicle accident claim since injured people must file a formal notice of claim within 90 days of the accident. If they fail to do so, they can lose the right to pursue compensation altogether. 

Pedestrians struck by large vehicles like transit buses can face severe injuries, including fractures, crush injuries, and nerve damage from being pinned or dragged. Recovery can involve multiple surgeries, extended physical therapy, and, in some cases, lasting mobility limitations that affect a person's ability to work or live independently.

Claims against a public transportation provider carry strict, short deadlines, which is why it can be very beneficial to seek legal help quickly. A bus accident lawyer can help gather surveillance footage from the bus, obtain maintenance and driver records, and file the required notice of claim before the 90-day window closes. 

At Metro Law, we can help explain what the notice of claim process involves and what deadlines may apply to each particular case. Our team can review the available facts and outline what legal options might be worth considering. 

If you or someone you know was hurt in a bus-related wreck in New Jersey, it may help to get information early. Call Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 to learn more about your options.