Bill 158: New Traffic Offence for Accidentally Injuring or Killing Pedestrians
The most tragic accidents often involve a driver hitting a pedestrian.
It may surprise you to learn that it is not an offence to accidentally kill or injure a pedestrian. This is often devastating news to accident victims or their surviving families. It is shocking that a driver who causes so much harm often faces no legal consequences.
This may be changing. In September 2017, Bill 158: the Protecting Vulnerable Road Users Act, was introduced in Parliament. Bill 158 creates a new traffic offence for drivers who accidentally injure or kill a pedestrian or cyclist while committing certain traffic offences, such as careless driving or speeding.
The proposed consequences under Bill 158 are significant:
– Maximum of one year driving suspension;
– Minimum of 50 hours community service; or
– Completion of driving instruction course.
The Bill also gives victims a voice. Accident victims and surviving families will be able to give a statement to the court on the impact the accident has had on them.
This law will justly sanction negligent drivers and provide solace to innocent victims. Voice your support for Bill 158 by contacting your MPP.
If you or your loved one is a victim of a pedestrian-vehicle accident, we may be able to help.
