Last year, Toronto saw the fewest traffic-related fatalities in a decade, coinciding with the removal of a significant road safety program in the city. City data from 2025 reveals that 39 individuals lost their lives on Toronto’s streets, a decrease from the already reduced numbers in 2020 during the height of COVID-19 restrictions.
Among the fatalities, there were 19 pedestrians, 12 motorists, five motorcyclists, two cyclists, and one involving “micromobility” users like electric bike, e-moped, and e-scooter riders. This marks a significant improvement from a decade ago when the city witnessed a peak in traffic deaths, with over half of the 78 fatalities in 2016 being pedestrians.
In response to the alarming numbers, the City of Toronto implemented the Vision Zero strategy aimed at eradicating traffic-related fatalities. This plan includes various road safety initiatives such as street redesigns to deter speeding, the introduction of speed cameras, and red light cameras. Over the past decade since its inception, there has been a general downward trend in traffic fatalities.
Despite the success of the Vision Zero strategy, one of its key components, the city’s speed cameras, doubled in number to 150 in 2025, were dismantled following new provincial legislation. This move has raised concerns, especially considering studies by CAA indicating that speed cameras effectively reduce speeding and enjoy support from the majority of Ontarians.
Premier Doug Ford’s government, however, has criticized speed cameras as ineffective and opted for large, flashing signs to caution drivers to reduce speed. This decision has sparked debate, with road safety advocates expressing worries about potential risks, particularly around schools where the cameras were predominantly installed.
While acknowledging the setback of losing the speed cameras, Vision Zero’s manager emphasized the implementation of multiple safety measures like speed humps, school crossing guards, and red light cameras to maintain road safety. Despite the progress made towards the Vision Zero goal, advocates stress the ongoing need to prioritize pedestrian safety and reevaluate street design to enhance overall road safety.