Summer in Ottawa is one of the most beautiful times of the year. From biking along the Rideau Canal to spending weekends in Gatineau Park or enjoying a family barbecue, it is a season to be outside and enjoy everything our region has to offer. However, with the warmer weather also comes a notable increase in personal injury risks.

At Bergeron Clifford Injury Lawyers, we have seen firsthand how a joyful summer day can turn tragic in the blink of an eye. As personal injury lawyers serving Ottawa and Eastern Ontario for decades, we believe that the best way to protect our communities is through both advocacy and education. With that in mind, here are some important safety considerations to keep in mind this summer.

1. Cycling Safety in the Capital

Ottawa is a cycling-friendly city, with over 800 km of bike paths winding through neighbourhoods, parks, and waterfronts. But even with dedicated infrastructure, collisions between cyclists and motorists are far too common.

Tips:

• Always wear a helmet – it is not just smart, it is the law for riders under 18.
• Use lights and reflectors, especially during dusk or cloudy conditions.
• Obey traffic signals and ride defensively; drivers may not always see you.

Legal Insight: If you are injured in a cycling accident, even if you were not driving a vehicle, you may still be entitled to accident benefits under Ontario’s auto insurance laws.

2. Boating and Water Activities: A Hidden Legal Risk

With easy access to the Ottawa River, Rideau Canal, and countless nearby lakes, boating and swimming are summer staples. But these activities carry real risks, particularly when alcohol or inexperience are involved.

Tips:

• Always wear a lifejacket – even strong swimmers can be overwhelmed by cold water or currents.
• Never mix boating and alcohol. It is illegal and dangerous.
• Check weather conditions and boat inspection requirements before heading out.

Legal Insight: If you are injured due to someone else’s negligent boating behavior, such as operating under the influence or failing to maintain equipment, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.

3. Pedestrian Accidents in Busy Tourist Areas

Tourist hotspots like ByWard Market, Parliament Hill, and Sparks Street come alive in the summer months. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents tend to increase with foot traffic and distracted drivers.

Tips:

• Cross only at designated intersections and always make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.
• Be extra cautious at night – even well-lit areas can be dangerous if drivers are not paying attention.

Legal Insight: Pedestrians have strong protections under Ontario law, but fault is not always automatic. Proving liability often requires a careful investigation of traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reports.

4. Playground and Park Injuries: Parental Vigilance Matters

Summer means school’s out, and that means more children in parks, playgrounds, and sports fields. Most play injuries are minor, but some result from unsafe equipment, poor supervision, or negligent property maintenance.

Tips:

• Inspect play structures for visible wear, broken parts, or sharp edges.
• Keep an eye out for overcrowding and ensure younger children are in age-appropriate play areas.

Legal Insight: Municipalities and private property owners have a duty to maintain safe public spaces. If your child is injured due to unsafe conditions, you may have legal recourse, but timelines for claims involving government bodies can be short, so it is important to act quickly.

What to Do If an Injury Happens

If you or a loved one is injured this summer, the most important thing is to seek medical attention first. Once you are safe, it is wise to speak to a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights. Evidence can disappear quickly, photos fade, memories become fuzzy, and witness contact information can be lost.

At Bergeron Clifford, we offer free consultations, and we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you do not pay unless we win.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Summer, But Stay Aware

Ottawa has so much to offer during the summer months. With a little caution and awareness, we can all enjoy the season safely. But if something goes wrong, know that you have a legal team ready to stand by your side.

We are proud to serve the communities of Eastern Ontario. If you have questions about a potential claim or just want to understand your options, contact us today.

KANON CLIFFORD