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North Hills, NY (May 31, 2026) – Three people were injured in a late-night crash on Friday, May 29, on the westbound side of the Long Island Expressway near Exit 34 in North Hills. The wreck was reported shortly after 11:30 p.m., according to Nassau County police.
Investigators said a tractor-trailer struck the rear of a Honda Civic. The Honda’s driver and one passenger were taken to a hospital with minor injuries. A 31-year-old passenger was listed in critical condition as of Saturday afternoon.
Police said the 53-year-old truck driver was not hurt. The identities of those involved had not been publicly released.
Detectives are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision. Our thoughts are with those receiving treatment and their families during this difficult time.
What Is Often Examined After a Rear-End Highway Collision?
Rear-end crashes on high-speed roadways can involve several factors that investigators and transportation specialists typically review. Vehicle speed, following distance, traffic flow, and roadway conditions are usually examined to determine how the sequence of events developed.
In many cases, damage patterns on the vehicles help provide insight into how the contact occurred and the force involved. Information from onboard vehicle systems may also be reviewed when available. Witness accounts, roadway markings, and traffic camera footage can further help establish a timeline.
When injuries are reported, medical findings may later clarify the severity of harm caused during the crash. On busy highways, investigators also look at visibility, weather conditions, and whether any mechanical issues may have contributed. These details can help create a clearer picture of what happened and why.
