Massive Disruption in Mahwah: Dump Truck Accident Takes Down Utility Pole, Snarls Traffic
photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Mahwah NJ, on Wednesday morning, September 10, 2025, a dump truck crash on Route 17 southbound in Mahwah, New Jersey, caused widespread disruption, including power outages and a full closure of the highway in both directions. The incident, which occurred near Route 202, left commuters stranded and emergency crews scrambling to manage the aftermath. Here’s everything we know about the crash, its impact, and the ongoing response. Stay updated with live traffic reports here.
What Happened on Route 17?
At approximately 9:45 a.m. on September 10, 2025, a dump truck veered off Route 17 southbound near Route 202 in Mahwah, striking a utility pole, multiple signs, and a cement block retaining wall. The violent crash caused significant damage, knocking out power to nearly 400 Orange & Rockland Electric customers and forcing the closure of Route 17 in both directions. The truck also damaged two passing vehicles, adding to the chaos at the scene.
Mahwah Police Department (PD) and Ramsey Police Department acted swiftly to manage traffic. Ramsey PD closed Route 17 northbound at Spring Street, while Mahwah PD diverted all southbound traffic at Route 202, just north of the crash site. Emergency response teams, including Mahwah Fire Department (FD), Mahwah EMS, Ramsey Rescue, New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Emergency Response Units, and Bergen County HazMat, were dispatched to the scene to address the wreckage and potential hazards.
Condition of the Driver and Emergency Response
The dump truck driver was evaluated at the scene by Mahwah EMS, though no information has been released regarding whether they were transported to a hospital. Emergency crews worked diligently to secure the area, with Bergen County HazMat assessing potential environmental risks from the crash. Several heavy-duty tow trucks were on standby to remove the wrecked truck, which had caused significant structural damage to the utility pole and surrounding infrastructure.
Impact on Traffic and Power
The crash led to immediate and severe traffic disruptions. With Route 17 closed in both directions, commuters faced heavy congestion on surrounding roads, including Route 202 and nearby streets. The downed utility pole triggered power outages affecting hundreds of residents and businesses in the area, with Orange & Rockland Electric crews working to restore electricity as quickly as possible.
Ongoing Investigation and Road Closures
Mahwah Police and other authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, including why the dump truck veered off the highway. The incident has raised concerns about safety on this busy stretch of Route 17, which has seen multiple accidents in recent years. As cleanup and repairs continue, drivers are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. NJDOT is providing live updates on road conditions, which can be accessed here.
Why This Matters
This incident underscores the importance of road safety and infrastructure maintenance, particularly on major highways like Route 17, a critical artery in Bergen County.
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I drive Route 17 every day.
Dump trucks travel at a high rate of speed.
There is zero enforcement.
Tractor trailers also travel very fast.
Buses go like hell too…
Hey, as long as everyone’s OK, maybe he lost his brakes