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WEST BABYLON, Suffolk County, N.Y., Oct. 17, 2026 — A 68-year-old man was seriously injured on Thursday afternoon, October 15, when his car crossed into oncoming traffic on Little East Neck Road and hit another vehicle, Suffolk County police said. Two other people in the second car were also hurt.
The man, identified as Michael Toth of Babylon, was driving a 1966 Chevrolet south on Little East Neck Road around 3:25 p.m. when his car crossed the center line and struck a 2011 Chrysler heading the opposite direction. The Chrysler was driven by 62-year-old Maria Rivera of West Babylon.
Toth, Rivera and Rivera's 18-year-old niece, a passenger in the Chrysler, were all taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip for treatment. Toth's injuries were described as serious. Rivera and her niece suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Both vehicles were impounded following the crash so they could be checked for mechanical issues, police said. What caused Toth's car to cross into the oncoming lane has not been released. Suffolk County Police First Squad detectives are continuing to investigate.
We wish the injured a complete and speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in West Babylon, NY
This crash happened on Little East Neck Road in West Babylon, NY. We cover crashes across Suffolk County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Suffolk County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is distracted driving considered such a serious risk on the road?
Even a glance away from the road at highway speed can cover the length of a football field, leaving a driver no time to correct course or avoid an oncoming vehicle.
Can weather or road conditions cause a car to cross into oncoming traffic?
Rain, glare, uneven pavement, or a mechanical problem can all contribute to a driver losing control, though investigators typically need time to determine the specific cause in any given crash.
What should someone do right after being involved in a two-vehicle crash?
Call 911, check for injuries, move to a safe location if possible, and exchange information with the other driver while waiting for police to arrive and document the scene.
What to Do After a Car Crossover Crash in West Babylon, NY
Anyone involved in a crash where a vehicle crosses into oncoming traffic should get checked by a medical professional even if injuries seem minor at first, since impacts from a head-on or near head-on collision can cause delayed symptoms. It's also worth requesting a copy of the police report once it's available and keeping records of any medical visits tied to the crash. If you witnessed the collision or have information that could help investigators, reaching out to the local precinct can assist their review. Residents of West Babylon dealing with the aftermath of a crash should take time to rest and follow up with their doctor as recovery continues.
