It happened just before 2 a.m. on East Loop Road.
Investigators say the driver was speeding when he lost control, hit a car, then crashed through a guardrail and into the river.
The 42-year-old driver and his father, who was a passenger, managed to get out and swim to shore.
The driver was taken into custody and then transported to Mount Sinai Queens Hospital for treatment.
His father refused medical treatment.
Police say the driver appeared to be intoxicated.
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