Traffic accidents occur in every city, and it seems to be a phenomenon that’s an unfortunate reality in our society today. Even though a motor vehicle accident can happen at any time, in any given place. There seems to be certain intersections that are “hotspots” for collisions. Whether it be due to the negligence of the driver, poor weather conditions or high volumes of traffic, these intersections need to be proceeded through with extra caution, by pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike.

The Kingston Police have released statistics for this past year, and they are staggering. In the year 2024, from January 1^st to December 31^st, there were a total of 3,158 collisions in the Greater Kingston area. It’s important to note that even though vehicles are being built with enhanced safety features, human error is erratic, and it is difficult to predict and sometimes react to the negligence of other drivers on the roadway.

Topping the Charts

As per the Kingston Police Collision Report dated February 7, 2025. The top five Kingston intersections where collisions occurred in 2024 are as follows:

1. Centennial Drive & Princess Street: Centennial Drive & Princess Street leads the list with a total of 21 collisions;
2. Bath Road & Sir John A MacDonald Boulevard: In a close second, the Bath Road and Sir John A intersection accounted for 20 accidents;
3. Gardiners Road & Princess Street: In a tie for second, the intersection of Gardiners and Princess had 20;
4. John Counter Boulevard & Montreal Street: There were also 20 accidents at the John Counter & Montreal intersection; and
5. Bath Road & Gardiners Road: Rounding up the top five is the Bath Road & Gardiners Road intersection at 20 as well.

What Makes These Intersections Particularly Dangerous?

The top five intersections as listed above have one thing in common. It does not concern the lights, lane width or the visibility of oncoming traffic. More simply, it is because they are some of the most heavily traversed, highly populated, main artery roads and intersections that Kingston houses. It is no surprise that intersections such as these play host to a greater number of collisions per year, than smaller, less traversed roads.

It should be further noted that 2765 of the 3,158 total collisions in Kingston occurred when the environmental conditions were clear, and 2604 collisions took place on dry roads. Poor conditions such as rain, snow, freezing rain, ice, drifting snow, strong winds, fog, glare, slush, loose sand and spilled liquid accounted for the remainder. Furthermore, among the grand total, there were 707 rear end collisions. All exemplifying the need for cautious driving all year round, and to always expect the unexpected. No matter the road conditions.

Reminder of the Law

All users of the roadway need to be aware of the rules of the road as set out in the Highway Traffic Act, and specifically, part X. Whether it is a stop sign at an intersection (s. 136),  pedestrian crossover (s.140), turning through an intersection (s. 141) or obeying the traffic control signals as per s. 144. The consequences of disobeying the rules of the road and committing such offences that are contrary to the Highway Traffic Act can result in civil penalties. This Act was established and is maintained to protect all who enter onto the roadway, to prevent collisions.

Consequently, the sequela of motor vehicle accidents often results in more than just vehicle damage. Bodily injuries are frequently a further ramification of motor vehicle collisions. All who use the roadway in Ontario should be aware of the Insurance Act and the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule.  Such Acts can play a foundational role in an injured person’s ability to receive compensation for a wide range of accident-related expenses such as medical and rehabilitation benefits if their injury stems from a collision.   

Stay safe…

As mentioned prior, it is nearly impossible to account for the negligent driving of those you share the roadway with. It is important to exercise safe driving habits, to be cautious and aware of your speed, surroundings, and other users of the road. Whether you are operating a motor vehicle, self-propelled bicycle or simply walking as a pedestrian, you need to exercise caution while using the roadway. If you or a loved one has been hit, injured or impaired as a result of a motor vehicle accident, contact Bergeron Clifford LLP for a free consultation. Our dedicated and experienced team is here to guide you, ensuring that your rights and best interests are protected every step of the way.\\

Burke Derbyshire is a graduate of LaSalle Secondary School in Kingston. Upon graduation, he attended Queens University on an athletic scholarship where he played for the men’s football team. He then completed his law degree at the University of Leicester, United Kingdom, and was a moot court finalist as well as an active member of the Canadian Law Society.

Burke worked at Bergeron Clifford in the summer of 2023 as a summer student, and is now working as an articling student while also completing his NCA exams.

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