Cycling Accidents in Ontario Affecting More Children

Cycling has become a recent trend throughout North America, and accidents and fatalities are up because of it. Local municipalities have increased bicycle lanes to help keep cyclists safer. Unfortunately, despite our greatest efforts, bicyclists keep dying on our roads in Ontario. Even more unfortunate, recent bicycle accidents are affecting our most vulnerable: our children.

Despite Fewer Cars on the Road, Bicycle Accidents Remained Consistent

Canadian Cycling Magazine reported that during 2020, a year when many of us were on lockdown, and fewer cars were on the road, cyclist deaths remained consistent. Their article reported that, on average, 74 cyclists lost their lives each year in Canada, despite bike lanes and fewer cars. None of these are more heartbreaking than when these accidents occur to children.

The Latest Bicycle Tragedy

On September 1, 10-year-old Nikita Victoria Belykh was struck and killed by a car while riding her bicycle in Thornhill. A ghost bike ride was held for her a week later. The ghost bike has become a tradition in the cycling community, where the victim is honoured with a memorial bike ride and an installation of a white “ghost bike” at the site of the tragedy. 

Unfortunately, Nikita’s was the sixth ghost bike installed in 2021 already in Ontario. Even more heartbreaking was that it was the fourth one installed for a child. 

Holding At-Fault Drivers Accountable

Accidents involving bicyclists typically result in serious and often fatal injuries to the cyclist. The goal for us here in Ontario is and continues to be zero deaths of cyclists. It seems we still have a long way to go. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Cambridge, let us help. The skilled bicycle accident lawyers at Hilborn and Konduros can help hold the at-fault party accountable for your injuries and damages. Call us at (519) 658-6341 or contact us online to understand how you may be compensated for your injuries.