Paramus, NJ (March 4, 2026) – A Paramus police officer and a 62-year-old woman were injured after a crash at Ridgewood Avenue and Highland Avenue on Tuesday afternoon. The collision occurred around 5:15 p.m. while the officer was responding to a call involving an emotionally disturbed person.
Authorities said the patrol vehicle had its emergency lights and sirens activated when it collided with a 2021 Toyota Highlander driven by the Washington Township woman. The impact caused the SUV to overturn in the intersection.
Both drivers were taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that were described as not life-threatening. The damaged vehicles were later removed from the scene.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
What Happens When Emergency Vehicles Are Involved in a Crash?
Crashes involving police vehicles or other emergency units can raise additional questions because these vehicles often travel with lights and sirens activated. Traffic laws generally require other drivers to yield the right of way when an emergency vehicle approaches. However, even with these protections, collisions can still occur at busy intersections.
After this type of accident, investigators typically review traffic signal timing, vehicle speed, and whether warning equipment was in use. Damage patterns and roadway markings may also help show how the impact happened. When an SUV overturns, officials may examine how the collision’s force affected the vehicle’s balance and center of gravity.
