Long Island unfortunately has many dangerous roads due to multiple factors, including tourist traffic, pedestrian and bicycle traffic, congestion, drunk driving and all the trucking routes. For example, Route 25, which is known as Main Street in Riverhead on the East End, sees multiple fatal accidents every year. In fact, Route 25 was identified in recent years as the “deadliest road” in Suffolk County and in particular Riverhead. According to one report, 33% of fatal crashes on Route 25 / Main Street in Riverhead were due to drunk driving, with nine of those crashes being fatal.
Route 27, also known as Sunrise Highway or Montauk Highway, is another example of a heavily trafficked highway where the risk of a crash is high on a daily basis.
For pedestrians and motorists, other dangerous Long Island roads to be aware of include:
- Wantagh Parkway
- Northern State Parkway
- New Hyde Park Road
- Round Swamp Road
What is historically the most dangerous road on Long Island?
Hempstead Turnpike, stretching 16 miles through Long Island, stands out consistently as the most dangerous road in the area. This road, which connects several busy neighborhoods, has gained notoriety due to its alarming number of accidents and fatalities.
Drivers in the Long Island area can keep themselves safe by understanding some of the gruesome statistics surrounding Hempstead Turnpike and exercising due caution.
What do statistics say about Hempstead Turnpike?
Statistics from recent years paint a grim picture of Hempstead Turnpike’s safety record. Between 2016 and 2021, there were 11 fatalities and 38 severe injuries reported. Pedestrians account for a significant portion of these tragic incidents. In 2020 alone, there were 112 crashes involving pedestrians, highlighting the road’s hazardous conditions for those on foot. Pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents are also more common in the spring and summer months as tourists from all over the world come to Long Island.
What makes Hempstead Turnpike so dangerous?
Several factors contribute to Hempstead Turnpike’s dangerous reputation. The road’s design and high traffic volume create a perilous environment for drivers and pedestrians alike. Long stretches without pedestrian crossings, poorly marked crosswalks and a lack of traffic calming measures exacerbate the problem. These issues make it challenging for pedestrians to cross safely and for drivers to navigate the road without incident.
Are there efforts to improve safety on Hempstead Turnpike?
Local authorities have taken steps to address these safety concerns. Efforts to improve road safety include installing pedestrian countdown signals, enhancing crosswalk visibility and reducing speed limits in high-risk areas. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain, as accidents continue to occur at an alarming rate.
Until government and community efforts yield meaningful results, drivers and pedestrians must remain cautious when navigating this and other treacherous stretches of Long Island. If you have been injured in a car accident on Long Island, our Car Accident FAQ has helpful information about getting compensation for your injuries.