Seniors Injured in Pedestrian Accidents
For Alberta's seniors, walking is more than just exercise — it's independence, health, and freedom. But with slower reaction times and fragile bones, older adults are among the most vulnerable road users.
When a vehicle strikes a senior, the results are often catastrophic: hip fractures, head injuries, or long-term disability. Unfortunately, insurers sometimes undervalue these claims by overlooking the unique medical and financial impacts on older victims.
As Alberta injury lawyers who once defended insurers, we've seen firsthand how seniors are treated after pedestrian accidents — and how to protect their rights. This guide explains why older adults face greater risks, how negligence is proven, and what compensation they may be entitled to.
Why Seniors Are at Greater Risk in Pedestrian Accidents
Senior pedestrians are at higher risk of serious injury or death due to a combination of physical and situational factors:
Risk factors include:
How Negligence Is Proven in Senior Pedestrian Claims
In Alberta, the legal question is whether the driver exercised **reasonable care** under the circumstances. Courts recognize that when the victim is a senior, reasonable care includes anticipating slower movement, visibility issues, and longer reaction times.
Failed to Yield
Failed to yield at a crosswalk or intersection.
Drove Too Fast for Conditions
Drove too fast for conditions (rain, snow, poor visibility).
Passed a Car Stopped for a Pedestrian
Passed another car stopped for a pedestrian.
Was Distracted, Impaired, or Fatigued
Was distracted, impaired, or fatigued.
Ignored Marked Crosswalk or Signal
Ignored a marked crosswalk or pedestrian signal.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident Involving a Senior
Taking immediate action after a pedestrian accident is crucial to protect both your loved one's health and legal rights:
Call 911
And ensure police attend the scene.
Seek Immediate Medical Care
Even minor pain can mask serious internal injuries.
Collect Evidence
Photos of the scene, vehicle, and crosswalk markings.
Obtain Driver and Witness Contact Information
Get contact details from all parties involved.
Request the Police Report Number
For future reference.
Avoid Insurer Communication
Until you've spoken to a lawyer.
Contact an Alberta Pedestrian-Injury Lawyer Quickly
To secure medical and accident evidence.
How a Lawyer Builds and Strengthens a Senior's Claim
Older clients often face unique challenges — slower healing, pre-existing conditions, and the need for lifelong care. A lawyer experienced in senior injury claims will:
Obtain Specialist Medical Assessments
To separate pre-existing conditions from accident injuries.
Work with Geriatric and Rehabilitation Experts
To forecast future care costs.
Quantify Loss of Independence
And household support needs.
Calculate Out-of-Pocket Family Caregiving Costs
Ensuring all expenses are documented.
Ensure Insurers Don't Discount the Claim
Because of age.
Case Example
A 76-year-old woman in Calgary was struck in a marked crosswalk. The insurer argued her hip fracture was 'age-related.' Our medical experts proved the collision caused the injury. The case settled for **$420,000**, covering surgery, mobility equipment, and home care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
When seniors are struck by vehicles, the consequences are often life-changing — and insurers don't always appreciate how deeply these accidents affect health, mobility, and dignity.
Seek medical help immediately
Preserve all records and receipts
Avoid insurer communication
Contact an experienced Alberta lawyer early