Toronto’s 2024-25 winter road maintenance plan: What residents need to know

As winter approaches, Toronto is bolstering its road maintenance strategies to tackle potential major storms. The city is seeking a $20 million increase to its winter maintenance budget, enhancing services with AI technology, updated bylaws, and infrastructure improvements to keep roads safe.

Key highlights of Toronto’s winter maintenance plan

Increased budget for 2025

• Toronto’s proposed winter maintenance budget aims to increase from $140 million to $160 million.
• Last winter’s mild conditions left a surplus of over $50 million, but the city is seeking additional funds due to inflation, anticipated storm frequency, and rising contract costs.

Updated bylaws for better snow clearing

• The city now allows for “major weather event” declarations. This new measure restricts parking on designated snow routes up to 72 hours before an expected heavy snowfall.
• This change is expected to allow faster and more efficient snow removal by clearing main roads ahead of storms.

AI technology for precision salt spreading

• Two AI-equipped vehicles will assess road conditions, tire traction, and snowfall to ensure the appropriate amount of salt is used.
• The city has also expanded its network of weather stations to ten, providing real-time data to guide maintenance crews.

Infrastructure preparedness

• With colder temperatures causing frequent water main breaks, Toronto is replacing and repairing pipes, with 30–40 kilometers replaced and over 100 kilometers repaired annually.

How Toronto residents can prepare for winter

1. Insulate Pipes: Wrap outdoor pipes to avoid freezing.
2. Install Weather Strips: Add insulation around doors and windows to retain warmth.
3. Remove Snow Responsibly: Clear snow from private properties within 24 hours without pushing it onto streets.
4. Clear Nearby Sidewalks: For properties with adjoining sidewalks, residents are responsible for clearing snow unless snowfall exceeds two centimeters.

What to do if you slip and fall on a sidewalk in winter

Winter brings icy sidewalks in Toronto, increasing the risk of slips and falls. If you’re injured on a sidewalk, follow these steps:

1. Document the Scene: Take photos of the area, including ice or snow buildup, any warning signs, and any surrounding conditions that may have contributed to the fall.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Get checked by a healthcare professional, even if your injuries feel minor. Medical records are essential for any potential claims.
3. Report the Incident: If it happened on public property, report the fall to the city or municipality. In Toronto, you have up to 60 days following the incident to submit a claim to the city. For private property, notify the property owner or manager.
4. Consult a Lawyer: Slip and fall cases can be complex. Get a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP who can help you get the compensation you are entitled to.

Toronto’s bylaws require property owners to clear ice and snow within 24 hours, so failure to do so could mean they’re liable for injuries resulting from unsafe sidewalks.

Steps to take after a winter car accident

Winter driving conditions can lead to an increased risk of accidents. If you’re in a collision in Toronto, take the following steps:

1. Stay Safe and Call for Help: Move to a safe spot if possible and call emergency services. This is especially important if there are injuries or if the road conditions are particularly hazardous.
2. Exchange Information: Gather contact, license plate, and insurance details from all involved parties. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.
3. Document the Accident: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions, including any ice, snow, or poor visibility factors.
4. Notify Your Insurance: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process.
5. Get Free Legal Advice: Winter accidents often involve complex issues, especially if road maintenance plays a role. A free consultation with a Toronto car accident lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can secure the compensation you need following an injury on the road.

Taking these steps can help protect your health, rights, and any potential claims following a winter accident or injury.