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Ontario Impaired Driving Crashes Today

Recent impaired and drunk-driving collision news from across Ontario — updated as incidents are reported — plus guidance for victims and the compensation rights available when another driver chooses to drive impaired.

Updated May 26, 2026 ET • By Sunish Rai Uppal, Managing Lawyer

Recent Ontario Impaired Driving Crashes (Updated regularly)

A running log of recent collisions, with the full story behind each headline.

May 2026

April 2026

March 2026

February 2026

October 2025

If You Were Hit by an Impaired Driver

Victims of impaired drivers in Ontario often have strong claims. Key points to know:

  • You can claim accident benefits regardless of fault, plus a tort claim against the impaired driver
  • A criminal conviction against the driver can support your civil claim
  • Punitive damages may be available where conduct was especially reckless
  • Family members may have claims under the Family Law Act
  • Deadlines are strict — preserve evidence and get advice early

What to Do After a Collision

  1. 1

    Check for injuries and call 911

    Make sure everyone is safe. Call 911 for any injury and request police if there is significant damage. A police report strengthens an insurance and injury claim.

  2. 2

    Document the scene

    Photograph vehicle positions, damage, licence plates, road conditions and visible injuries. Collect names, contact details and insurance information from all parties and witnesses.

  3. 3

    Report the collision

    Report to your insurer promptly and, where required, to a Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours. Do not admit fault at the scene.

  4. 4

    Get medical attention

    See a doctor even if you feel fine — some injuries surface days later. Medical records create the timeline that supports your accident benefits and tort claim.

  5. 5

    Speak to a personal injury lawyer

    Before signing anything from an insurer, get legal advice. Ontario has strict deadlines, and early advice protects both your accident benefits and your right to sue.

Understanding Your Rights

After a crash in Ontario you may be entitled to two kinds of compensation: no-fault accident benefits through your own insurer, and a tort claim against the at-fault party for pain, suffering and losses beyond what benefits cover.

Deadlines are strict — a lawsuit generally must start within two years, while some accident-benefit notices are due within days. Speak with UL Lawyers before dealing with any insurer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue a drunk driver who hit me in Ontario? +

Yes. Beyond no-fault accident benefits from your own insurer, you can bring a tort claim against the impaired driver for pain, suffering, lost income and other losses. A criminal conviction can strengthen the civil case.

Does a criminal charge against the driver help my claim? +

It can. A criminal conviction for impaired driving is strong evidence of negligence in your civil claim, though your claim does not depend on the outcome of the criminal case.

What if the impaired driver was uninsured? +

You may still recover through the uninsured-motorist coverage in your own policy or Ontario's Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund. A lawyer can identify every available source.

Are punitive damages available in impaired driving cases? +

Sometimes. Where a driver's conduct was especially egregious, Ontario courts may award punitive damages on top of compensation for your losses.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer? +

UL Lawyers works on contingency — no fees unless we recover compensation for you, and the first consultation is free.

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