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Toronto pedestrian traffic deaths on track for five-year high, advocates say
Toronto police data shows 21 pedestrians have been killed in traffic collisions this year, up 24% from last year; advocates blame worsening driving behaviour since the province removed speed cameras last November.
Why it matters
Data from the Toronto police traffic services unit shows 21 pedestrians have been killed in traffic collisions across the city this year — a 24 per cent increase from last year. At this rate, the city could exceed the 44 pedestrian deaths recorded in 2022, the highest number in recent years.
Jess Spieker, spokesperson for road safety advocacy group Friends and Families for Safe Streets, says the increase is not unexpected, especially after the province removed speed cameras last November. She described driving behaviour as "getting worse," effectively allowing drivers to "speed whenever and wherever they want."
Background
Toronto is averaging about four traffic deaths per month this year, and advocates estimate the city is on track for around 49 traffic fatalities by year-end. Spieker urged Premier Doug Ford, Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria and other officials to restore enforcement measures such as speed cameras and build complete streets for all road users.
Toronto holds municipal elections on October 26, and pedestrian safety has become a campaign issue; advocacy group Walk Toronto is pressing candidates on sidewalk maintenance, keeping bike lanes and other safety demands.
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