The New York Times recently reported on the increase danger, drivers face on the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (B.Q.E.). The concentration of roadwork has created a danger zone in which the number of auto accidents has spiked. What’s more, drivers aren’t the only ones at risk. Construction workers risk jobsite accidents everyday as speeding automobiles and distracted drivers pass within inches of poorly protected individuals.
One witness who had reportedly been driving the B.Q.E for approximately 20 years called the stretch of roadway “a nightmare.” Seemingly under construction forever, the B.Q.E. creates a choke point where drivers and construction workers and their equipment constantly come into dangerous proximity.
In just the past year, the B.Q.E. has played host to several horrific car accidents including deadly multiple car pile ups and tractor trailer accidents. In April of this year, a tractor trailer rolled over pinning a car (and its occupants) against a barrier. In May, a deadly car accident involving a drunk driver backed up traffic for miles across the Williamsburg Bridge and beyond. Last October, two tractor trailers collided, killing one driver and inuring the other.
Automobile insurance is intended to protect injured individuals (drivers, passengers, pedestrians and passers-by such as construction workers in a work zone) in the event of an accident but often policies have severe limitations on coverage ($25,000 is the permissible minimum in New York State). However, in certain circumstances, if the at fault driver owns a car; the insurance policy for that uninvolved car can act as additional insurance.
The alarming number of New York City auto accidents and truck accidents on the B.Q.E. may be due to the outdated roadway. Much of the short stretch of roadway was built before standards dictating proper widths and construction specifications were put into play. Sections of the road are just 10.5 feet wide while standards now mandate at least 12 feet. However, there is no quick fix in sight and as the City dumps more money into the seemingly unending construction project, the B.Q.E. will undoubtedly rack up even more unsuspecting victims.
If you or a loved one has been injured in any kind of automobile, truck or roadway construction accident, call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel for a free consultation to learn your rights at or 212-385-1122.