October 30, 2024 - This year has been the deadliest for cyclists in Toronto since record-keeping began in 2006. In August a 26-year-old woman, struck by the driver of a vehicle while cycling in Etobicoke, succumbed to her injuries, marking the sixth cycling death this year in Canada’s biggest city.

According to the City, about 100 kilometres of new bikeways were installed between 2018 and 2023, and 90 kilometres of existing bikeways were upgraded. Despite the changes, advo- cates say other critical components are missing.

“We need bold leadership and big changes for today’s reality. The danger- ous driving and negligent driving out there is prolific,” said lawyer Dave Shell- nutt (@TheBikingLawyer), who special- izes in representing injured cyclists and pedestrians. “Enforcement of the current laws is weak along with legislation sur- rounding penalties for vehicular deaths.”

Educating drivers is another key factor, including curbing the growing culture war that is being stoked between road users. Even government officials are fanning the flames, such as Ontario Premier Doug Ford who recently made exaggerated and negative claims about bike lanes in Toronto that are not based on data and facts.

“Cyclist safety is a public health issue—everybody benefits from this type of infrastructure. Walking on the sidewalk or riding a bike in the city shouldn’t be an act of courage,” added Michael Longfield, Executive Director of Cycle Toronto.