Police say the accident was between a Mazda and a Suzuki SUV just west of Grand Avenue in Hempstead, after 6:30 a.m.
According to police, the Mazda struck the Suzuki from behind and then traveled through the guiderail on the south shoulder, before striking a pole and several trees.
The driver of that Mazda was pronounced dead at the scene, and a passenger in the other vehicle was taken to Mercy Hospital with minor injuries.