Steps to Take After Being Involved in a Car Crash in New York
A recent review of crash data has brought renewed attention to Route 6 accidents—incidents on one of the most heavily traveled and increasingly dangerous roads in Orange County, New York. With more than 2,000 accidents recorded since 2022, including 12 fatalities and nearly 100 serious injuries, safety concerns are mounting.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident along Route 6, understanding the dangers of this corridor and your legal rights can be essential to protecting your future.
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Route 6 Accidents: What the Data Reveals
According to reported data from local News12, the stretch of Route 6 between Fort Montgomery and Port Jervis has seen a staggering number of collisions:
- More than 2,000 crashes since 2022;
- 12 confirmed fatalities; and
- 92 serious injuries, many requiring long-term care.
The vast majority of these Route 6 crashes occurred in Woodbury and Fort Montgomery, where the road becomes especially narrow and winding, often with little to no physical separation between lanes of oncoming traffic.
Fire officials in the region have grown increasingly vocal, with Woodbury Fire Chief Christopher Burke telling local reporters this part of the roadway is “a death trap.”
What Makes This Stretch of Route 6 So Dangerous?
Several factors contribute to the high crash rate and severity of Route 6 accidents:
- Single-lane traffic in each direction with no median;
- Limited shoulders and visibility, especially on curves;
- High commuter traffic connecting Orange County to NYC;
- Frequent inclement weather, including snow and fog; and
- No concrete barriers to prevent head-on collisions.
When combined with driver distractions, speeding, or impaired driving, these road conditions create a recipe for tragedy. The number of accidents and injuries is not normal when compared to other roadways—something a AAA spokesperson also confirmed with News12.
Local Officials Are Urging the State to Act
Public pressure is growing for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to make Route 6 safer. Woodbury Mayor Andrew Giacomazza confirmed that over 10% of all emergency calls in 2025 have involved accidents on Route 6.
In response to public outcry, NYSDOT has stated that it is reviewing the area for improvements, but no concrete plans have been released, according to News12.
Potential Solutions for Route 6 Safety Concerns
While solutions are still under discussion, transportation experts and community members are advocating for:
- Installation of median barriers,
- Lane widening or additional lanes,
- Improved signage and lighting,
- Speed reduction measures and enforcement zones, and
- Dedicated passing lanes to ease congestion.
Local leaders argue that unless changes are made soon, the fatality rate on Route 6 will continue to climb.
What to Do If You Were Hurt in a Route 6 Crash
A serious crash on Route 6 can result in lasting injuries, high medical costs, missed work, and emotional trauma. If someone else’s negligence or hazardous road conditions contributed to the accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Greenspan & Greenspan, we help clients in Orange County and throughout New York pursue legal claims after life-changing car accidents. We also investigate whether road design flaws or government negligence played a role in your injuries.
Legal options may include:
- Personal injury claims—for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering;
- Wrongful death actions—if a loved one was killed in a crash; and
- Claims against government entities—if poor road maintenance or design contributed to the accident.
These cases are time-sensitive. Claims involving municipalities require notice of claim filings within 90 days, so it’s important to act quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Dangerous Section of Route 6 in New York?
The stretch between Fort Montgomery and Port Jervis, particularly near Woodbury, has seen the highest number of crashes and fatalities in recent years.
Can I File a Claim Against the State for Unsafe Road Conditions?
Yes, but claims against a public agency must follow specific legal steps and deadlines, including a notice of claim within 90 days. An attorney can guide you through this process.
What Are Common Injuries from Route 6 Crashes?
Some of the most common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones and fractures, internal organ damage, and death.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit in New York?
Most personal injury lawsuits in New York must be filed within three years of the crash, but claims against government entities may require much shorter notice periods.
Contact Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love was involved in a crash on Route 6, our attorneys are here to help. With deep roots in the area and a long track record of success, we handle serious injury cases with care, clarity, and confidence.
Let us investigate your case and explain your rights. We’ll deal with the insurance companies while you focus on recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation online.
