Jun 26, 2025 in News Accident Benefits Claims

Accident Benefits Claims: More Bikes, More Risk: What You Need to Know About Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety in Toronto This Summer

When summer hits Toronto, the city gets busy. People are walking more, biking more, spending more time outside. But as sidewalks and bike lanes fill up, so do emergency rooms.

Every summer, the number of pedestrian and cyclist injuries spikes. There’s even a name for it: trauma season. Doctors and personal injury lawyers alike know it well.

Even with more bike lanes and safety campaigns, it’s not enough. Toronto’s roads are still dangerous, especially for those not protected by a vehicle. And when something goes wrong, it’s often the pedestrian or cyclist who ends up paying the price.

If you’ve been hit—or if you just want to avoid ending up in a hospital this summer—this guide covers what’s really happening on our streets, what your legal options are, and what to do after a serious accident.

Why Are There More Accidents in Summer?

More People, Less Space

The math is simple: more people outside means more potential for collisions. Whether you’re commuting on your bike, walking to a festival, or out with the kids, there’s a lot more movement on the streets—and not everyone is paying attention.

Toronto’s Infrastructure Still Falls Short

Yes, we have more bike lanes than we used to. But many of them are too narrow, unprotected, or just painted lines that don’t stop cars from veering in. Some crosswalks are faded or poorly lit. And intersections? Still some of the most dangerous spots in the city.

Distracted and Impaired Driving Spikes

From weekend getaways to late nights on patios, the summer season brings out more distracted and impaired drivers. Even a second of inattention behind the wheel can change someone’s life forever—especially when that someone is on foot or on a bike.

What Happens in a Crash: Common Injuries

When a car hits a pedestrian or cyclist, the outcome is rarely minor. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Head injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord damage
• Broken bones and fractures
• Serious bruising and soft tissue trauma
• PTSD and other mental health effects

Even “mild” injuries can take months to recover from—and many lead to long-term pain, missed work, or the need for ongoing care.

Your Legal Rights If You’re Hit While Walking or Cycling

In Ontario, the law gives injured pedestrians and cyclists some protection. But you still need to know what to ask for—and how to get it.

Accident Benefits (No-Fault Insurance)

You can access accident benefits through your (or the driver’s) auto insurance, even if no one’s officially at fault. These benefits can help with:

• Medical bills
• Rehab and physiotherapy
• Lost wages
• Mental health support

Suing the At-Fault Driver (Tort Claims)

An at-fault accident is a motor vehicle collision where someone’s negligence caused your injuries—say, they ran a red light or were texting while driving. In this case, you may be able to sue them for more compensation, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Future medical costs
• Lost earning capacity
• Out-of-pocket expenses

A personal injury lawyer in Toronto can walk you through what’s possible based on your case.

Crosswalks and Intersections: Where It Gets Risky

Some of Toronto’s worst accidents happen at places that are supposed to be safe—crosswalks, corners, and four-way stops. Whether it’s because of poor signage, blind turns, or drivers rushing through yellow lights, intersections are a common hotspot for collisions.

If you were hit in one of these areas, it’s not just a traffic issue—it may involve serious legal liability on the driver’s part. Our post on dangerous intersections in Toronto explains why these locations are so risky and what victims can do.

What to Do Right After a Crash

If you're hit while walking or cycling, what you do next can make a big difference in both your recovery and your ability to make a claim.

1. Get medical attention right away. Even if you feel “okay,” go to the hospital. Concussions and internal injuries don’t always show up immediately.
2. Take photos. Of the scene, your injuries, the vehicle, skid marks—everything. Ask someone nearby to help if you can’t do it yourself.
3. Get witness info. If anyone saw the accident, grab their name and number. Their statement could be critical later on.
4. File a police report. Always report the accident. If officers don’t come to the scene, you can file it afterward.
5. Call a lawyer. Don’t go it alone. A good personal injury lawyer will make sure your rights are protected and that insurance companies don’t lowball you.

Tips for Staying Safe This Summer

It shouldn’t be this risky just to walk or bike in the city—but until Toronto catches up with safer infrastructure, here are some basic things you can do:

If You’re Cycling:

• Wear a helmet, even if it’s a short trip
• Stick to bike lanes whenever possible
• Use lights and reflectors, day and night
• Avoid headphones—stay alert

If You’re Walking:

• Use marked crosswalks
• Make eye contact with drivers before stepping out
• Stay off your phone while crossing streets
• Avoid jaywalking, especially near busy intersections

If You’re Driving:

• Watch for cyclists, especially in your blind spots
• Slow down near intersections and crosswalks
• Put your phone away. One text can cost a life
• Be patient—summer traffic is frustrating, but rushing doesn’t help

What Needs to Change

While individual caution is important, it’s not enough. We need real change in how our cities are built and how traffic laws are enforced. That means:

• Better, wider, protected bike lanes
• More visible and accessible crosswalks
• Public awareness campaigns about road sharing
• Stronger penalties for distracted and impaired driving

Legal advocates, city planners, and safety groups all have a role to play in making Toronto safer for everyone—not just drivers. The City’s Vision Zero Road Safety Plan outlines steps to reduce traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries, but meaningful change depends on continued pressure, collaboration, and enforcement.

Final Word

Summer should be the best time to walk or ride through Toronto—not the most dangerous. But until our roads become safer, we all have to be extra careful.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian or cycling accident, speak to a personal injury lawyer in Toronto who understands how these cases work. At Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers, we help victims and their families get the compensation and care they need to move forward.

Don’t let one driver’s mistake change the course of your life. Know your rights, take action, and get the support you deserve.