Clifton, NJ (August 14, 2026) – A 37-year-old Haledon man was seriously injured on Wednesday after his Yamaha motorcycle struck a Ford van on the Garden State Parkway.
The wreck happened around 12:17 p.m. on the southbound side near milepost 155.5 in Clifton. The motorcycle rider was ejected and suffered serious injuries.
New Jersey State Police said no other injuries were reported. The preliminary findings indicate that the motorcycle hit the rear of the Ford van.
The crash remained under investigation as of 4 p.m. Wednesday, August 12. Our thoughts are with the injured motorcyclist as he continues to recover.
What Makes Motorcycle Rear-End Crashes Especially Dangerous?
Motorcyclists face greater physical risks in rear-end crashes because motorcycles provide less protection than enclosed vehicles. A rider can be thrown from the motorcycle when another vehicle is struck or when the bike loses balance.
The following distance is especially important for motorcycle riders and other drivers. Leaving enough space allows more time to brake if traffic slows suddenly. Motorcyclists can also increase visibility by using headlights, wearing reflective gear, and avoiding blind spots.
Rear-end crashes can cause serious harm even at moderate speeds. Riders may be injured by being thrown onto the pavement or by contact with another vehicle. Wearing a properly fitted helmet and protective riding gear can reduce the severity of some injuries, although no equipment can eliminate the risk entirely.
