Crashes & close calls spark safety concerns at West Babylon intersection
The intersection of State Route 109 and Herzel Boulevard has been the site of numerous crashes in recent years, including a fatal collision in 2022.
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Calls are growing for safety changes at a busy West Babylon intersection that some residents and business owners describe as dangerous, and even deadly, following yet another crash Friday morning.
The intersection of State Route 109 and Herzel Boulevard has been the site of numerous crashes in recent years, including a fatal collision in 2022. On Friday, a pickup truck and a sedan collided at the intersection, leaving both vehicles heavily damaged and their drivers injured.
Local business owner Chuck Fox, who operates Master Window Tinting and Detailing nearby, said crashes and near misses are a frequent occurrence.
"This morning's crash is just the latest," Fox said. "There's been several accidents, a lot of near misses. Constant screeching of tires and horns blaring. It's a living nightmare."
Fox believes a blinking yellow left-turn arrow is contributing to the problem by confusing drivers attempting to turn onto Route 109.
"Instead of having a red arrow and green arrow, they've got a blinking yellow arrow," Fox said.
According to Fox, drivers often misjudge oncoming traffic while making turns, leading to collisions and dangerous situations.
Fox said he has repeatedly contacted the New York State Department of Transportation, urging officials to replace the blinking yellow arrow with a more restrictive traffic signal configuration.
The Department of Transportation released the following statement:
"Safety is always the top priority of the New York State Department of Transportation. The traffic signals and other features of the State Route 109 intersection with Herzel Boulevard in West Babylon adhere to state and federal standards. Safety is everyone’s responsibility and NYSDOT encourages motorists to remain alert, obey posted speed limits and drive responsibly."
