Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating types of collisions on Alberta roads. Without the protection of a vehicle, even a low-speed impact can cause life-altering harm — from broken bones to brain injuries or permanent disability.
When a driver's negligence leads to serious injury, victims may face months of medical treatment, lost income, and uncertainty about their legal rights.
As Alberta injury lawyers who used to defend insurers, we've seen firsthand how severe pedestrian injuries can be — and how insurers try to downplay them to reduce settlements. This guide explains the most common pedestrian accident injuries, what they mean for your recovery, and how they affect your compensation claim.
This guide covers:
How Pedestrian Injuries Happen
Most pedestrian accidents occur when drivers:
Common Causes:
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Alberta
"Pedestrian injury" covers a wide range of harm — from temporary pain to permanent disability. In Alberta, most victims experience one or more of the following:
Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, and Strains)
Common in low-speed impacts, these injuries can still cause months of pain, stiffness, and mobility issues. Insurers often label them as "minor," but chronic soft-tissue injuries can limit work and daily life.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Pedestrians often suffer fractures to arms, legs, ribs, or hips when thrown to the ground or struck directly. Severe breaks may require surgery, plates, or pins — and can lead to arthritis or permanent weakness.
Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A concussion is technically a brain injury. Even "mild" TBIs can cause headaches, memory loss, dizziness, and emotional changes. More serious TBIs can permanently affect speech, concentration, or independence.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Damage to the spine can cause chronic pain, reduced mobility, or paralysis. Even non-catastrophic back injuries can result in nerve pain and lifelong physical limitations.
Internal Organ Damage
The blunt force of a vehicle can cause internal bleeding or damage to the liver, kidneys, or lungs — often requiring emergency surgery.
Facial and Dental Trauma
Many pedestrians fall forward during impact, suffering broken teeth, jaw injuries, or scarring. These are painful and can have lasting emotional effects.
Psychological Injuries (PTSD, Anxiety, Depression)
It's common to relive the accident or develop anxiety around traffic. These invisible injuries are real, medically recognized, and compensable under Alberta law.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident
Following these steps immediately after an accident can significantly strengthen your case and protect your rights to compensation.
Call 911
Call 911 and ensure police document the collision.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
Get medical attention immediately — even if symptoms seem minor.
Take Photos
Take photos of the scene, vehicle, and visible injuries.
Obtain Driver and Witness Information
Obtain driver and witness information.
Request the Police Report Number
Request the police report number.
Keep Copies of All Medical Records
Keep copies of all medical records and receipts.
Avoid Giving Statements
Avoid giving statements to insurers before seeking legal advice.
Contact an Alberta Pedestrian-Injury Lawyer
Contact an Alberta pedestrian-injury lawyer quickly to preserve evidence and guide your claim.
How a Lawyer Proves and Values Your Injury Claim
A strong legal team builds your case by documenting both the medical and financial effects of your injuries. We:
Obtain Complete Medical Records
Obtain complete medical records and specialist reports.
Work with Occupational Therapists
Work with occupational therapists and vocational experts to assess limitations.
Calculate Income Loss
Calculate income loss and future earning capacity.
Document Pain and Emotional Distress
Document pain, emotional distress, and long-term care costs.
Negotiate with Insurers
Negotiate directly with insurers — or litigate if offers are unfair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Pedestrian accidents can result in some of the most severe injuries seen in personal injury law — but you don't have to face insurers alone. Alberta law protects your right to compensation for both visible and invisible harm.
Get medical attention immediately
Keep all documents and receipts
Avoid speaking with insurers directly
Contact a lawyer early to protect your claim
Still have questions? Contact us today — your consultation is free.
Contact us today for a free consultation. No fee unless we win.