Posted by Les Faber in I am by no means a morbid person (this is the 3rd time I have delayed this post). So when I came across some information related to cycling fatalities in Toronto, I hesitated to publish it. But, upon further consideration I decided to do so in an effort to educate cyclists in Toronto on some of the areas more prone to cycling mishaps.
Advocacy for Respect for Cyclists has seen fit to create a Google Map that outlines the location of each cycling fatality since 1996.
I am assuming that the information is accurate. I see no reason why it shouldn’t be. This is all very sobering (and sad at the same time).
Here’s the link to the map and more detailed information.
Ride safe.
Wow, I never would have expected to see so many. That is sad indeed. I don’t think you’re being morbid, Les, we have to be realistic. It does happen, and I think some cyclists (like motorists) become complacent and don’t always monitor their own behavior. This is a good reminder that we can’t be arrogant when riding, and “demand” our space on the road. I don’t know what any of the circumstances are for any of these deaths, it could be the cyclists did everything right. Even still, cyclists need to realize they are so much more vulnerable in an accident and be extra careful. Right-of-way is not worth dying for.
Re “circumstances” —- The Coroner’s Office in Toronto has actually posted reports on each “accident”. If enough people ask, I’ll post a link… Hint: a large portion of the deaths were attributed to Head trauma (aka no helmet?). It is very (very very) sad.
That is tragic, when it’s so preventable. I know in some places cyclists resist wearing helmets, but I’ve been wearing one on a bike since the mid-80s. I don’t think twice about it. I don’t find them uncomfortable, and more than one bug has bounced off the helmet (rather than making contact with my head). I remember hearing about a guy here in the Portland area who was hit, and actually had his head run over by a truck. He walked away from it, the helmet took the bullet for him, so to speak. If I can find any articles online about it, I’ll put up a link.
Very sad. But honestly, I expected more (I grew up in Toronto). It’s a huge city and it can be dangerous downtown.
No doubt helmets don’t always help. But sometimes they can save a life. It’s a no-brainer (so to speak).
Yep….. I looked at the source data. The predominent cause of death was “head injuries”