Steps to Take After Being Involved in a Car Crash in New York
The Saw Mill River Parkway winds through Westchester County with scenic views, stone overpasses, and historic charm, but it’s also one of the most dangerous roads in New York. If you’ve experienced a Saw Mill River Parkway accident or know someone who has, you’re not alone. This narrow, outdated roadway has become a collision hotspot, raising serious concerns for local drivers.
A Roadway Built for a Different Era
The Saw Mill Parkway was constructed in the 1930s. It was a time when cars were smaller, slower, and far less frequent. Today, thousands of vehicles crowd this winding, two-lane road every day. Unlike modern highways, it lacks standard shoulders, guardrails in many places, and the width needed for emergency response or evasive maneuvers.
Its age and original design are major contributors to accidents on the Saw Mill River Parkway, especially as traffic volume continues to rise.
Sharp Curves and Low Overpasses Create Hazards
Many accidents on the Saw Mill Parkway occur around blind curves and sharp turns, particularly in areas like Yonkers and Dobbs Ferry. Drivers unfamiliar with the road may be caught off guard, while even seasoned commuters risk losing control at high speeds or during bad weather.
The parkway’s stone overpasses are iconic, but they are also low. That limits visibility and prevents larger vehicles, such as trucks, from entering. In fact, trucks and commercial vehicles are banned from Saw Mill Parkway. Despite signage, some drivers still mistakenly enter with oversized vehicles, resulting in catastrophic crashes or long traffic delays.
Limited Escape Options in Emergencies
One of the most dangerous aspects of the parkway is the lack of a shoulder. When cars break down or when a crash occurs, there’s often nowhere safe to pull over. That leaves vehicles partially blocking lanes and increases the risk of secondary collisions, especially during peak commute hours. With no room to maneuver, even minor fender-benders can become serious multi-car pileups.
Rain, Ice, and Flooding Compound the Risk
Because the Saw Mill Parkway runs alongside the Saw Mill River, it is prone to flooding. Heavy rain can turn certain stretches into slick, dangerous zones with poor traction and a risk of hydroplaning.
In the winter, shaded areas of the road may stay icy even after surrounding roads have cleared. Combined with tight curves and minimal guardrails, icy patches can turn a routine drive into a serious accident.
Distracted and Aggressive Driving Makes Things Worse
As with most high-crash areas, driver behavior plays a significant role. Tailgating is common on the parkway due to the lack of passing lanes and slow-moving traffic. Meanwhile, distracted driving, especially due to texting, has become a leading cause of rear-end collisions along the route.
The road does not forgive mistakes. With limited space and poor sightlines, one second of inattention can be the difference between a close call and a tragic accident.
Common Types of Saw Mill River Parkway Crashes
The types of accidents that frequently occur on the Saw Mill include:
- Rear-end collisions in traffic backups;
- Sideswipes from improper merging or tight lanes;
- Single-car crashes caused by overcorrection or loss of control;
- Multi-car pileups during inclement weather; and
- Collisions involving motorcycles or bicycles, which are harder to spot on curving roads.
Each of these accident types can result in serious injuries or worse, especially when emergency responders face delays due to the parkway’s design.
Injured in a Saw Mill River Parkway Accident? You Don’t Have to Deal with the Aftermath Alone.
If you or a loved one was hurt in a crash on the Saw Mill, it’s important to understand your rights.
Because New York is a no-fault insurance state, your initial medical bills and lost wages are typically covered through your own insurance (PIP). However, serious injury cases—those involving fractures, significant scarring, or permanent limitations—allow you to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. In these situations, the support of an experienced legal professional can be crucial. A skilled personal injury lawyer can gather evidence of liability and advocate for you to receive the full compensation you’re due under state law.
At Greenspan & Greenspan, we understand how dangerous this road can be because we live and work in Westchester County. Our attorneys have helped many local families after accidents on the Saw Mill Parkway, and we know how to build strong claims with real results.
Contact Our New York Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one was hurt in a crash on the Saw Mill River Parkway, you’re not alone, and you may have legal options. Our team at Greenspan & Greenspan has decades of experience and understands the local roads and the complexities of New York injury law. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we may help you recover compensation for your injuries.
