Overview
Traffic accidents occur daily on any one of the three major Long Island highways. Accidents similar to this one are common on Long Island parkways and highways. One might ask why? Let’s take a look.
Watch Out for the Other Guy!
How many times have we heard this expression? But it is so true! Take, for example, an incident in Nassau County where a driver was crossing through an intersection. She began to move from the middle to the right lane, but out of nowhere, a car flew in from the right lane behind her, trying to squeeze his car into the same lane she was moving into, causing her vehicle to sideswipe that car. At first glance, it would seem evident that the other driver was in the wrong, as his car was behind hers, and he sped up in the right lane as she was moving into it, but that is not the case.
The police report and dashcam video were sent to the insurance company. The company stated that the driver moving into the right lane was wrong since she changed lanes in the middle of the intersection rather than on the actual road where the single white lines were.
The moral of the story is that even when you think you are in the right, you still might be wrong, so knowing the rules of the road is essential.
Now, let’s take a look at the Majority of Reasons Why Accidents Occur in Long Island
- Heavy Traffic Volume – Major highways like the Long Island Expressway (LIE), Northern State Parkway, and Sunrise Highway are heavily traveled, increasing congestion and collision risks, especially during the summer months when thousands of people go to Jones Beach and the Hamptons, to name just two locations.
- Aggressive Driving – How many times have you been on a road and someone comes flying past you, weaving in and out of the lanes? Or tailgating you when you are driving at the speed limit? Speeding, tailgating, and frequent lane changes are common on Long Island, especially during rush hours.
- Distracted Driving – Many accidents are caused by drivers texting, using GPS, or engaging in other distractions. The law is that you cannot touch your cell phone or digital device, even when you are waiting at a red light, or even if you are parked with the motor running!
- Poor Road Conditions & Construction – Potholes, uneven pavement, and ongoing construction zones create hazards.
- Weather Conditions – Rain, snow, and fog make roads slippery, leading to more crashes.
- Drunk & Impaired Driving – DUIs remain a significant problem, particularly late at night and on weekends.
Please note: Attorney Patricia Scanlon does not manage DWI (DUI) cases. For help with other moving violations, please refer to the home page! - Inadequate Public Transportation – With limited mass transit options, more people rely on cars, increasing highway congestion.
What is Being Done About These Ongoing Accidents on Long Island?
The counties and the state have implemented several initiatives:
- Vision Zero Initiative: In conjunction with the multi-national road traffic safety program, this program will work towards eliminating traffic-related deaths and serious injuries on county roadways by 2035. NYC and Suffolk County have taken on this project.
- New York State Highway Safety Plan: The state’s Department of Transportation Highway Safety Plan for 2024-2026 focuses on occupant protection, traffic records, impaired driving, and non-motorized safety. This data-driven approach identifies problems and sets priorities for highway safety programs.
- Walk Safe Long Island: Besides vehicles, there are countless traffic accidents involving pedestrians. Not so much on the highways, but a serious concern nonetheless. This initiative raises awareness and provides education to improve pedestrian safety through law-based education.
These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to improving traffic safety on Long Island, involving infrastructure improvements, legislative actions, and community engagement to reduce accidents and save lives.