Newark, NJ (December 17, 2025) – Eight people were hospitalized on Tuesday afternoon, December 16, following a serious collision involving a tractor-trailer and a New Jersey Transit bus in Essex County. The crash occurred around 3:00 p.m. at the intersection of Marlin Street and Port Street in Newark.
According to officials, the NJ Transit bus was traveling toward Jersey Gardens Mall when a tractor-trailer struck the rear of the bus. The impact caused injuries to multiple occupants on board. The Port Authority Police officers responded to the scene along with emergency medical crews.
Seven passengers riding the bus and the bus driver suffered injuries in the collision. Paramedics transported them to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. Authorities confirmed that the injuries were considered non-life-threatening. The driver of the tractor-trailer declined medical treatment at the scene.
Emergency responders worked to assist the injured while securing the intersection. Officials did not release further details about the vehicles involved or whether citations were issued.
Authorities confirmed the investigation remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with everyone injured in this crash, and we hope for their steady and complete recovery.
Tractor-Trailer Accidents in New Jersey
Tractor-trailer accidents involving public transit buses present serious safety risks on New Jersey roadways, especially in busy urban areas like Newark. These collisions often occur at intersections or along heavily traveled commercial routes where traffic patterns change quickly.
Several factors may contribute to tractor-trailer and bus crashes. One common reason involves following too closely. Large trucks require more time and distance to stop, and rear-end collisions can happen when drivers fail to maintain safe spacing. Distracted driving also plays a role, as truck drivers may lose focus due to mobile devices, navigation systems, or in-cab technology.
Other possible reasons these accidents may happen include:
- Driver fatigue, which can slow reaction times and impair judgment during afternoon traffic
- Congested roadways that increase sudden stops and unpredictable traffic flow
- Poor visibility caused by weather conditions or obstructed sightlines at intersections
- Improper braking or mechanical issues affecting large commercial vehicles
- Misjudging traffic signals or the movement of transit buses making scheduled stops
In tractor-trailer accidents, the force of impact can cause passengers to be thrown forward or sideways, leading to injuries such as concussions, spinal strain, broken bones, or soft tissue damage. Even injuries labeled as minor may require follow-up care and time away from work or daily activities.
Determining what caused a crash like this often requires a detailed investigation. Officials may review driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, traffic camera footage, and witness statements. These steps help clarify responsibility and improve roadway safety moving forward.
After a serious collision involving a commercial truck and a public transit bus, injured passengers often need guidance beyond medical care. A New Jersey personal injury lawyer can help victims understand how liability works in crashes involving multiple parties, such as trucking companies, transit agencies, and insurance providers.
If you or a loved one was injured in a tractor-trailer or bus accident in New Jersey, understanding your legal options can be an important next step. At Metro Law, we help injury victims navigate complex accident cases involving commercial vehicles and public transportation.
At Metro Law, we offer free consultations and focus on helping injury victims understand their legal options after serious accidents. Our team is committed to providing clear guidance and strong advocacy during challenging times. Contact Metro Law today at (800) 469-6476 to speak with someone who can help you take the next step forward.
