What Is the Most Dangerous Road on Long Island?

While Long Island has many busy roads, some are more dangerous than others. According to accident data and local reports, one of the riskiest roads on Long Island is Jericho Turnpike, also known as Route 25.

If you have been injured on Jericho Turnpike or any other road, a Long Island car accident attorney will help you navigate the legal process, protect your interests, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

The Most Dangerous Road on Long Island

Jericho Turnpike runs from the Queens-Nassau County border to Riverhead in Suffolk County. It has earned a reputation for frequent crashes and risky driving conditions.

The road is a major east-west route that passes through many busy towns and shopping areas, and is often crowded with cars, trucks, and pedestrians.

The road has many traffic lights, businesses with driveways right on the turnpike, and areas where people often jaywalk. All these factors make it a challenging and dangerous road to drive on.

Specific trouble spots include:

• Mineola: The section of Jericho Turnpike that runs through Mineola is particularly busy, with numerous intersections and heavy pedestrian traffic.
• New Hyde Park: This area has several intersections that are notorious for collisions, particularly where Jericho Turnpike intersects with major roads like New Hyde Park Road.
• Huntington Station: The stretch through Huntington Station sees a high volume of traffic and has been the site of numerous accidents, especially near the Walt Whitman Shops and other commercial areas.
• Westbury: The intersections in Westbury, particularly those near major shopping centers and residential areas, are known for frequent accidents.
• Woodbury: The area where Jericho Turnpike intersects with Woodbury Road and Route 135 is a notable trouble spot for accidents.
• Syosset: This section of the turnpike, especially near the intersections with South Oyster Bay Road and Jackson Avenue, has a high incidence of traffic collisions.
• Smithtown: The busy commercial areas and intersections in Smithtown, particularly near the Smith Haven Mall, contribute to the high accident rate on this stretch of Jericho Turnpike.

Other Dangerous Roads in New York State

While Jericho Turnpike tops many “most dangerous” lists, other roads like Sunrise Highway and Hempstead Turnpike also see their share of crashes.

Other risky roads in New York State include:

• I-87 (The New York State Thruway): This major highway runs from New York City to the Canadian border. Its long stretches and high speeds can lead to drowsy driving and serious crashes.
• U.S. Route 6 in the Hudson Valley: Sharp turns and steep hills make this road tricky, especially in bad weather.
• The Taconic State Parkway: This older parkway wasn’t designed for modern traffic. Its narrow lanes and lack of shoulders can be dangerous.
• I-90 in Western New York: Heavy truck traffic and severe winter weather contribute to accidents on this busy stretch of highway.
• The Bronx River Parkway: Another older road, it has tight curves and short on-ramps that can catch drivers off guard.

Lowering the Risk of Accidents on the Most Dangerous Road on Long Island

While we can’t control how others drive, we can take steps to protect ourselves on dangerous roads like Jericho Turnpike:

• Slow down: Follow the speed limit and reduce your speed in busy areas or bad weather.
• Stay alert: Avoid distractions like phone use, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving.
• Watch for pedestrians: Be extra careful near shopping areas and bus stops where people might cross unexpectedly.
• Be careful at intersections: Many accidents on Jericho Turnpike happen at intersections. Look out for red-light runners and turning vehicles.
• Keep your distance: Leave plenty of space between your car and the one in front of you.
• Use turn signals: Always signal when turning or changing lanes.
• Be prepared for sudden stops: Watch for brake lights ahead and be ready to slow down quickly.
• Avoid peak hours if possible: Jericho Turnpike is busiest during morning and evening rush hours and on weekends near shopping areas.
• Watch for cars entering from side streets and driveways: Many businesses have direct access to the turnpike, so cars might pull out suddenly.
• Be extra cautious at night: Some parts of Jericho Turnpike aren’t well-lit, making it harder to see pedestrians or obstacles.

Recovering Damages After a Long Island Car Accident

If you’re in a traffic accident on a dangerous Long Island road like Jericho Turnpike, you may be able to recover damages for your injuries and losses.

Here’s what you should know:

• Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel okay. Some injuries aren’t obvious at first and can worsen over time.
• Document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, get contact info from witnesses, and write down your recollection of events while they’re still fresh in your mind.
• Report the accident to your insurance company, but don’t give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer first. They can guide you on what to say to protect your interests.
• Keep track of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and any other costs you incur.
• Don’t accept a quick settlement offer without understanding your full damages. It’s important to know the extent of your injuries and the long-term impact.
• Be aware of New York’s “no-fault” insurance system. You’ll need to file with your own insurance first for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault.
• If your injuries are serious, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to recover additional compensation.
• Remember, there’s a time limit (statute of limitations) for filing accident claims in New York, so don’t wait too long to take action.
• Consider factors like road design or maintenance. In some cases, government entities might be partly responsible for dangerous conditions, and a lawyer can help determine this.
• Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Having a knowledgeable advocate on your side can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Working With a Long Island Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been in a serious accident on a dangerous Long Island road like Jericho Turnpike, Personal injury lawyers at The Barnes Firm will help you navigate this process.

Our Long Island lawyers understand New York’s complex car accident laws and how to navigate the legal system. We have resources to gather evidence, talk to experts, and build a strong case.

We negotiate with insurance companies to get you a fair settlement and can identify multiple parties responsible for your accident. The Barnes Firm will explain your rights and options clearly, represent you in court if needed, and handle all the paperwork. Contact us at (800) 800-0000 or online for a free case evaluation.

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Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

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