Brooklyn Queens Expressway Crash Ends With One Death and One Arrest
A recent crash on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway proved fatal, and it led to the arrest of one driver. Also known as the “BQE,” this highway has seen numerous fatal crashes over the years. If you were injured in a BQE crash, you might want to get in touch with a Brooklyn auto accident lawyer. These legal professionals may also help families who have lost relatives in fatal crashes.
Driver Arrested After Fatal BQE Crash
In May of 2025, a driver was arrested after a fatal BQE crash. Police say that the driver had stopped on the expressway due to traffic congestion when a motorcyclist approached from behind. The motorcyclist struck the rear of the stationary vehicle, and this collision caused fatal injuries to the rider.
Police arrived at the scene and quickly determined that the driver of the stationary vehicle did not have a valid license. They also determined that they were operating their vehicle without an ignition interlock, which was assumedly required due to a prior DWI conviction. As a result, the driver was arrested and charged in connection with the fatal crash.
However, it is worth noting that the arrested driver did not actually “cause” the crash. Based on the preliminary reports, it seems as though the driver did not commit any traffic violations before the collision. In fact, they were slowing down due to traffic congestion – something every responsible driver should do.
Generally speaking, motorcyclists who rear-end cars are responsible for their own injuries. If a motorcyclist impacts the back of a car, it is usually because they were not following at a safe distance. This type of collision may also occur after motorcyclists operate at unsafe speeds. While the authorities are still investigating this specific crash, they did not charge the unlicensed driver with manslaughter or related offenses. This would imply the police recognize the driver did not cause the crash.
Regardless of the specifics, this crash illustrates how dangerous the BQE can be. The BQE is a subject of considerable discussion among city planners and safety advocates in Brooklyn. Some statistics have indicated that a narrower expressway with fewer lanes could reduce accidents.
Key Takeaways
- The Brooklyn Queens Expressway has seen many dangerous crashes over the years
- Unlicensed drivers cause many crashes each year
- It may be possible to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a fatal crash
Can a Brooklyn Auto Accident Lawyer Help Me?
A Brooklyn auto accident lawyer may be able to help if you experienced a crash on the BQE. As recent crashes indicate, many collisions on this expressway are caused by negligent drivers. An experienced attorney may be able to help you establish negligence and hold reckless drivers accountable. To discuss your next steps toward compensation, consider contacting Cohan Law, PLLC today.
Sources:
patch.com/new-york/new-york-city/motorist-arrested-after-deadly-bqe-crash-last-weekend-police-say
nyc.streetsblog.org/2023/04/10/fewer-crashes-are-happening-on-narrowed-bqe-as-adams-considers-future-widening