The Long Island Expressway, called Interstate 495, spans 71 miles and passes through Queens, Suffolk, and Nassau counties. It is a major commuter connection between Long Island and New York City.
Frequent traffic congestion plagues the Long Island Expressway, with drivers often resorting to reckless behaviors. This combination of factors has resulted in an alarming frequency of accidents over the years, earning the Long Island Expressway a reputation as one of the most dangerous highways in the United States. Let our personal injury lawyer in New York explain why this road is so dangerous for travelers.
Factors that Increase the Dangers of the Long Island Expressway
Our Long Island car accident attorney often handles cases of individuals being harmed in accidents on the Expressway. Several factors are noted in many of the crashes reported, including:
Reckless Driving Habits
Many accidents on the Long Island Expressway directly result from negligent drivers. Some leading factors include:
- Aggressive driving
- Drugged driving
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Fatigue-induced driving, particularly among truckers
These and other reckless actions have all contributed to accidents on the Long Island Expressway. Due to the lax enforcement of traffic regulations, many motorists also exceed the speed limit while traveling on the expressway. It is common to see motorists travel well above 100 mph on this road, which poses significant risks for others traveling nearby.
Infrastructure Challenges
It is well-known that the infrastructure on the Long Island Expressway needs attention. The Expressway has many potholes resulting from New York’s recurrent freeze-thaw cycles during the winter months. Heavy congestion and the presence of commercial trucks further compound this problem, increasing the risk of drivers experiencing blowouts or losing control of their vehicles.
Hazards of Commercial Trucks
The constant presence of tankers and commercial trucks along the Long Island Expressway adds another layer of danger to this already perilous roadway. Any misstep can lead to catastrophic collisions with vehicles traveling at high speeds alongside massive trucks. Fatigue from extended driving hours ranks among the top causes of truck-related accidents.
Increased Pedestrian Traffic
Certain segments of the Long Island Expressway, particularly in Queens, witness significant pedestrian activity. While pedestrians cannot cross the highway, areas like Queens Boulevard experience heavy foot traffic beneath it. Motorists who are distracted or violate traffic laws risk colliding with unsuspecting pedestrians and causing severe injuries.
Long Island Expressway’s Confusing Traffic Patterns
Many accidents on the Long Island Expressway occur in the area near Queens Boulevard. This area is prone to accidents due to its confusing traffic patterns. Some common causes of crashes in his area include the following.
- Horizontal Traffic Signals: Due to the Long Island Expressway’s limited vertical clearance, traditional vertical traffic lights are replaced with horizontally oriented signals at specific points. This unconventional setup has proven confusing, particularly for drivers with color blindness, further complicating navigation through the area.
- Tunnels and Underpasses: Negotiating underpasses poses unexpected hazards as drivers’ vision adjusts to fluctuations in brightness and darkness. While this adjustment typically takes only a brief moment, it is ample time for accidents to occur, underscoring the need for heightened caution in these areas.
- Merge Points: Drivers merging from either the upper Long Island Expressway or the lower Queens Boulevard often encounter difficulty as they attempt to merge with existing traffic flow. Despite the presence of stop signs, these merging intersections frequently feature obstructed sightlines, heightening the risk of collisions.
- Separated Lanes and Absence of Shoulders: Many traffic lanes near this intersection are partitioned by medians. Consequently, they have specific exit points for reaching destinations safely. Failure to exit designated lanes correctly often leads to collisions.
Legal options may be available for you after being injured in an accident on the Long Island Expressway. Our personal injury lawyer in New York can help you better understand your rights and take the necessary steps to help you protect them.
Take Legal Action
An accident on the Long Island Expressway can result in significant medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, and lost wages. Fulfilling a personal injury claim is essential to recover compensation for some of the resulting losses and damages. A dedicated legal team can help you protect your rights and hold the person who caused your injuries accountable.
Call Our Long Island Car Accident Attorney For Help
The Long Island Expressway is a busy and often dangerous highway. After a car crash, it is important to understand your rights and seek proper legal representation. At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III, our Long Island car accident attorney is dedicated to standing up for victims of car accidents and fighting for the justice they deserve.
Our past results show our commitment to obtaining full compensation for our clients, and we will never settle for less. Contact our personal injury lawyer in New York to schedule a consultation to discuss your rights.
