I think what Ferdinand was saying is that, in the context of a ride that includes roads like Astoria Blvd and the Queens portion of Northern Blvd, Merrick Road is not so different. I'd agree with that. But for the sake of a newbie rider unfamiliar with those roads, I felt compelled to defend my position on using Merrick Road alternatives.
+1 for oldnslow's comment about parked cars being as much or more of a danger than moving ones.