Queens, NY (May 30, 2025) – A car crash with injuries was reported Friday on the Van Wyck Expressway South service road near Hillside Ave in the Briarwood neighborhood of Queens. The incident occurred during the morning commute, bringing traffic to a standstill along one of the borough’s busiest highway access points.
Motorists passing through the area described multiple vehicles involved and visible damage near the service road entrance. Emergency crews were quickly dispatched to the scene, where paramedics provided immediate aid to those injured. At least one individual required hospitalization following the collision. The full extent of the injuries has not yet been disclosed.
Police blocked access to parts of the service road and adjacent intersections to conduct a detailed investigation and manage congestion. It is not yet known whether speed, road conditions, or driver behavior played a role in the crash. Authorities have not issued citations at this time.
We extend our wishes for a quick and full recovery to all those affected in this collision.
Expressway Crashes and Injury Risk in Queens
The Van Wyck Expressway is a critical transit artery for Queens commuters, but it’s also one of the city’s most collision-prone roadways—especially at service road junctions like Hillside Ave. These merging points often experience high volumes of lane shifts, on-ramp acceleration, and limited maneuvering space, making them hotspots for injury-causing accidents.
Friday’s crash is indicative of the risks drivers face daily on and around expressways. In Briarwood, where residential areas border fast-moving traffic corridors, sudden slowdowns, aggressive lane changes, and unclear signage all contribute to dangerous conditions.
As the city continues to invest in Vision Zero and MTA construction projects along this stretch, traffic diversions and altered patterns can increase confusion for drivers unfamiliar with the area. For this reason, defensive driving and reduced speeds are crucial when entering or exiting expressway service roads.
Injury crashes in these zones often result in physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Victims may face significant medical costs, missed work, and prolonged recovery periods—especially if the collision involves multiple vehicles or high-speed impact.
If you’ve been injured in a crash near an expressway entrance or service road, seeking timely care and support is essential.
Local Accident Reports is committed to helping crash victims navigate recovery with clarity and confidence. Whether you need help finding medical care, legal guidance, or simply understanding what to do next, we’re here for you. Contact Local Accident Reports today to begin your path to healing.
