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Malverne, NY (September 5, 2026) – Two people were injured in a three-vehicle collision on the eastbound Southern State Parkway near Exit 17 at Hempstead Avenue on Thursday night, September 3.
Emergency units arrived and found one car overturned with an occupant trapped inside. Crews worked to free that person while the other vehicles remained along the parkway, and two people were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
We hope both patients make a full recovery.
Why Can an Overturned Vehicle Complicate a Three-Car Emergency?
A vehicle resting on its side or roof can leave normal doors blocked or difficult to open. Occupants may also be held in place by bent metal, seat belts, or changes to the passenger compartment.
Before removing someone, crews may need to stabilize the vehicle so it does not shift. Specialized tools can then create additional space around the occupant while limiting unnecessary movement that could worsen possible neck or back trauma.
A rollover can also spread debris across several lanes and leave vehicles stopped at unusual angles. Those factors may require a wider closure for patient access, towing, and cleanup. On a limited-access parkway, losing several lanes can quickly create long backups until the vehicles and debris are removed.
