At least five pedestrians have been struck by drivers across the Greater Toronto Area since Wednesday night, November 4, 2026.
The series of GTA pedestrian accidents includes a serious collision in East York that left a man in his 70s fighting for his life.
The incidents have renewed concerns about pedestrian safety in Toronto and surrounding communities. For people injured while walking, the consequences can be severe. A collision may lead to months of treatment, lost income and lasting health problems. It also raises an important question: what legal rights do pedestrians have after being hit by a car in Ontario?
Elderly Pedestrian Critically Injured in East York
One of the most serious collisions happened early Thursday morning near Coxwell Avenue and O’Connor Drive.
Toronto police responded shortly after 1 a.m. following reports that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle. A man in his 70s was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Police confirmed that the driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.
O’Connor Drive was closed between Coxwell Avenue and Hutton Avenue while police examined the area. The cause of the collision has not been confirmed.
Why Are Pedestrian Accidents So Dangerous?
Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no seatbelts or airbags to protect them. Even a low-speed collision can cause serious injuries.
Common pedestrian accident injuries include broken bones, concussions, spinal injuries and internal bleeding. Older adults may face greater risks because recovery can take longer. Poor visibility, busy intersections and turning vehicles can also increase the danger.
Drivers must remain alert and yield to pedestrians when required by law.
Who Is Responsible When a Car Hits a Pedestrian in Ontario?
Fault depends on the circumstances. Police may examine traffic signals, vehicle speed, road conditions and witness statements.
Under section 193 of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, a driver or vehicle owner may have to prove that a pedestrian’s injuries did not result from their negligence or improper conduct.
This rule can be important in an Ontario pedestrian accident lawsuit. However, it does not mean every driver is automatically at fault.
An experienced Toronto pedestrian accident lawyer can investigate the collision and determine whether negligence played a role.
What Compensation Can an Injured Pedestrian Receive?
Being hit by a car can affect every part of daily life.
Some people cannot return to work. Others need surgery, physiotherapy or long-term care.
If another person’s negligence caused the injuries, compensation may be available for eligible losses, including:
- Lost wages and reduced future earning ability.
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses.
- Future care costs.
- Pain and suffering.
- Certain out-of-pocket expenses.
The value of a pedestrian injury claim in Ontario depends on the injuries, liability and applicable legal rules.
Can Pedestrians Receive Accident Benefits Without Owning a Car?
Yes, potentially, as Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits system may provide support to pedestrians injured in motor vehicle accidents, regardless of fault. You do not need to own a vehicle to qualify.
Ontario has rules that determine which insurer handles the claim. Depending on the applicable policy, benefits may help pay for medical treatment, rehabilitation and other eligible expenses.
Insurance changes introduced on July 1, 2026, also make it important to review the coverage in effect.
What Should You Do After Being Hit by a Car?
Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Keep copies of medical records, treatment plans and receipts.
If you can, collect witness information and preserve photographs or video footage.
Report the collision to the appropriate insurer within the required time.
These steps can help protect your health and support a potential injury claim.
Contact Bergel Magence After a GTA Pedestrian Accident
A serious pedestrian accident can leave you facing pain, financial pressure and uncertainty about your future.
For more than 50 years, Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers has helped injured people and families throughout Ontario.
Our experienced legal team handles Toronto pedestrian accidents, crosswalk injuries, elderly pedestrian accidents, hit-and-run collisions, traumatic brain injuries and catastrophic injury claims.
We represent clients throughout Toronto, East York, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham and the Greater Toronto Area.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Toronto pedestrian accident lawyers can investigate the collision, preserve evidence, review available Accident Benefits and pursue compensation when a legal claim is available.