May 08, 2025 in News Accident Benefits Claims

Accident Benefits Claims: Why Summer Is Trauma Season—and How to Stay Safe Behind the Wheel

As the warmer months arrive and more Ontarians take to the roads for recreational travel, hospital emergency rooms and trauma centres across the province begin to prepare for what healthcare professionals refer to as “trauma season.” This term refers to a documented increase in serious injuries and motor vehicle collisions that typically occur between late spring and early fall.

Summer driving is often perceived as safer due to improved weather conditions, but in reality, it presents a unique set of risks. From higher traffic volumes and driver fatigue to increased alcohol consumption, elevated driving speeds, and distracted driving. These warmer months actually account for a disproportionate number of serious personal injury cases as compared to the rest of the year in Ontario.

At Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers, our team has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of summer accidents. Understanding why this season is particularly hazardous—and knowing how to reduce your risk—can help protect you and your loved ones from becoming part of this statistic.

What “Trauma Season” Really Means

“Trauma season” is a term widely used by emergency physicians and trauma specialists to describe the spike in serious injuries that occurs during the summer. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), hospital admissions for trauma-related incidents rose significantly during this period, particularly in connection with motor vehicle collisions and recreational activities.

The correlation is clear: increased travel, long weekends, social gatherings, and more time spent outdoors all contribute to a higher incidence of preventable injuries. Common recreational activities linked to trauma admissions include boating, swimming, cycling, ATV use, and other high-risk outdoor sports. In particular, higher travel speeds on dry, open roads contribute to the severity of injuries sustained in collisions.

For individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents during this time, seeking immediate guidance from a personal injury lawyer Toronto can be critical.

Why Sunny Days Can Be the Most Dangerous Time to Drive

Although winter presents its own hazards, the summer season is far from risk-free. In fact, it is often more unpredictable due to a combination of behavioural and environmental factors:

• Increased traffic volume: More drivers on the road, particularly during long weekends and holidays, leads to greater congestion and a higher probability of collisions.
• Distracted driving: Use of mobile devices, GPS navigation, and in-vehicle distractions contribute to a growing number of accidents.
• Driver fatigue: Long-distance travel and heat-related exhaustion can impair alertness and reaction times.
• Elevated speeds: Clear weather conditions often lead to drivers exceeding posted limits, increasing both the likelihood and severity of collisions.
• Vulnerable road users: Cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians are more common during warmer months and are often less visible to drivers.
• Inexperienced drivers: Young or newly licensed drivers are frequently on the road during the summer, which may increase collision risk.

Victims of these incidents are encouraged to consult with car accident lawyers to evaluate their legal options and ensure their rights are protected.

The Accidents We See Most Once the Weather Warms Up

Certain categories of accidents become more frequent during the summer months. Among the most common are:

• Rear-end collisions caused by congestion or sudden braking
• Intersection accidents resulting from red-light running or inattention
• Single-vehicle incidents due to fatigue or swerving to avoid obstacles
• High-speed collisions on highways and rural roads
• Accidents involving cyclists and motorcycles
• Impaired driving-related collisions

The scenarios listed above frequently result in serious or catastrophic injuries. Legal representation from experienced accident lawyers can help injury victims access medical benefits, pursue fair compensation, and secure long-term care if necessary.

Long Weekends, Long Drives—and a Spike in Crashes

Holiday weekends are associated with a marked increase in motor vehicle accidents. According to the Canadian Motor Vehicle Traffic Collision Statistics: 2022 report from Transport Canada, long weekends such as Victoria Day, Canada Day, and Labour Day often experience elevated crash and fatality rates.

Factors contributing to these spikes include:

             
• Increased traffic volume
• Longer travel distances
• Elevated speeds on highways
• Impaired driving
• Driver fatigue

If you or a loved one is involved in an accident over a long weekend, it is essential to speak with an injury lawyer Toronto to understand your rights and the potential for recovery under Ontario’s insurance and tort systems.

Simple Habits That Can Make Summer Driving Safer

Preventing accidents during the summer months often comes down to planning and awareness. A few proactive strategies include:

• Conducting a full vehicle inspection before long trips
• Staying well-rested and hydrated on the road
• Avoiding distractions while driving, including mobile phones
• Refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or cannabis
• Complying with speed limits and adjusting speed to road conditions
• Watching for cyclists and pedestrians in urban and rural areas

In the aftermath of a collision, working with personal injury law firms in Toronto can help ensure that critical steps are taken to preserve evidence, manage insurance claims, and protect future rights.

If a Collision Occurs, Know the Right Steps to Take

In the aftermath of a motor vehicle collision—a moment that can be disorienting and overwhelming—it is crucial to stay as composed as possible and take the following actions:

             
1. Call 911 and report any injuries or unsafe conditions.
2. Move vehicles to a safe location if possible.
3. Exchange insurance and contact details with all involved parties.
4. Take photographs of the scene, vehicles, and visible injuries.
5. Seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms appear minor.
6. Document all medical visits and symptoms in the days following the accident.

After these steps are completed, consult with a car accident lawyer Toronto to explore your legal options and determine whether compensation may be available.

Determining Liability and Protecting Your Rights

Establishing fault in a motor vehicle accident can be complex, especially when multiple parties or contributing factors are involved. Whether the collision was caused by distracted driving, excessive speed, impaired operation, road conditions, or mechanical failure, personal injury lawyers Toronto can help investigate the circumstances and build a strong case.

Accessing fair compensation may involve statutory accident benefits, tort claims, or both. A skilled legal team will assess your injuries, calculate losses, and work to secure the resources you need for recovery.

Make Safety a Priority This Summer

While summer offers time for travel and relaxation, it is also a period when caution on the road is more important than ever. By understanding the risks associated with trauma season and taking preventive measures—including managing speed—drivers can reduce the likelihood of injury.

In the event of an accident, experienced personal injury lawyers can provide trusted guidance and advocacy every step of the way. If you or someone you care about has been injured, contact Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.