It is a growing concern that many Calgarians feel is happening almost daily, with pedestrians being struck on city streets. Surprisingly, a pedestrian accident attorney notes that more than half of those injured had the right of way at the time of the collision.
Why are drivers disregarding the rules, and what rights do pedestrians have on Calgary roads?
What Is Pedestrian Right-of-Way?
Pedestrian right-of-way refers to the legal priority given to pedestrians to cross the road safely in specific situations. It determines when drivers must slow down, stop, or yield to people walking on or entering the roadway. These rules are made to reduce accidents and create a safer environment for both parties.
In most cases, people have the right-of-way at marked crosswalks, intersections, and when traffic signals indicate it is safe to walk.
When Do Pedestrians Have the Right-of-Way?
Pedestrians are given the right of way at crosswalks unless directed otherwise by a traffic signal or a peace officer. This applies even to unmarked crosswalks, meaning drivers are required to stop and allow pedestrians to pass.
| Marked crosswalks | Sections of the roadway clearly identified by signs, painted lines, or other visible markings that indicate where pedestrians should cross. |
| Unmarked crosswalks | Areas at intersections where sidewalks, curbs, or road edges meet. These can be thought of as invisible lines extending from one corner to another across the road. Unless otherwise indicated by signage, unmarked crosswalks are present at most intersections. |
Motorists should remain attentive, especially for elderly individuals or those with disabilities who may need more time to cross. Failing to yield can lead to penalties, including fines and demerit points. However, pedestrians must still act with caution and make sure that vehicles have fully stopped before stepping onto the roadway.
When crossing outside of a crosswalk, pedestrians are required to yield to vehicles. In some areas, local regulations also prohibit jaywalking, and crossing outside designated zones may result in a fine.
Been involved in a pedestrian accident? Get legal advice from Sidhu Personal Injury Lawyers in Calgary. Our pedestrian accident lawyers work to help you with the legal process.
Pedestrian Accident Cases in Calgary are becoming a Concern
According to data from the Calgary Police Service (CPS), more than half of the injured pedestrians had the right of way.
From 2024 through year-to-date 2025, there have been 879 pedestrian injury collisions.
- 476 occurred while the pedestrian had the right of way
- 6 accidents involving pedestrians resulted in fatalities
- 136 of these cases involved hit-and-run accidents.
The highest number of pedestrian accidents occurs between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., aligning with after-school and evening hours. The next most common time frame is between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., during the morning commute.
These incidents are fairly evenly distributed across all four quadrants of the city, with no clear geographic concentration. Over the past decade, CPS data shows fluctuations in pedestrian collisions. Fatalities have ranged from as few as 2 in 2017 to as many as 13 in both 2024 and year-to-date 2025.
Injury collisions reached a peak of 474 in 2024, while non-injury incidents have steadily declined, dropping from 121 in 2019 to just 18 so far in 2025.
Are Drivers or Motorists Disregarding the Rules?
Concerns about drivers disregarding traffic rules have grown as pedestrian-related incidents continue to rise. In many cases, collisions occur even when pedestrians legally have the right of way. This suggests that some motorists may be failing to yield, driving distracted, or not paying close attention in high-traffic areas.
Busy intersections, school zones, and residential streets are vulnerable when drivers overlook posted signs or traffic signals.
- Distracted driving remains one of the leading factors. The use of mobile devices, in-car technology, or momentary lapses in attention can reduce a driver’s reaction time.
- Speeding is another major issue, as higher speeds make it more difficult to stop in time and increase the severity of injuries when accidents occur.
However, pedestrian accident lawyers believe the issue is not always a simple case of drivers ignoring the rules. Road design, poor lighting, unclear signage, and weather conditions can also contribute to these incidents. In some situations, drivers may not see pedestrians in time, especially during early morning or evening hours when visibility is reduced.
How to Stay Safe (Pedestrians and Drivers’ Responsibilities)
Safety is a shared responsibility, with both drivers and pedestrians responsible for keeping Calgary’s roads safe. So, what steps can be taken to make Calgary streets safer for everyone?
Pedestrian Safety Tips
Although you have the right of way at all marked and unmarked crosswalks, not all drivers are aware of or follow this rule. You are still responsible for exercising caution and should make sure that vehicles have stopped before stepping into the crosswalk. Make your intentions clear to drivers by signalling when you plan to cross to help them anticipate your movements.
- Wear bright clothing, reflective gear, or carry a light, especially when walking at night.
- Keep your phone aside; texting can wait.
- Remove headphones or earbuds to stay alert to traffic sounds.
- Look up and make eye contact with drivers whenever possible.
- Signal when you intend to cross the street.
- Watch for traffic in all directions while crossing.
- Cross safely at corners or intersections.
- Be cautious of turning vehicles or drivers who may not see you or have not stopped.
- Never jaywalk or cross between parked vehicles.
Riders’ Responsibilities in Pedestrians’ ROW
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on Alberta’s roads. Drivers caught distracted can receive a minimum fine of $300 and three demerit points. To avoid such incidents, drivers may need to:
- Always stop for pedestrians at both marked and unmarked crosswalks and intersections.
- Stay attentive and anticipate pedestrians at corners and intersections.
- Never overtake another vehicle near a crosswalk or in a playground zone.
- Park at least 5 meters (about one car length) away from crosswalks, intersections, or stop signs, and follow all posted restrictions.
- Turn carefully, keeping an eye out for pedestrians crossing the street.
Accidents May Still Occur, So Know Your Rights and Call a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer
No matter how cautious you are, accidents can still happen. You cannot predict how a driver will behave on the road. If you are a pedestrian accident victim or know someone who is, seek medical attention immediately and contact experienced pedestrian lawyers in Calgary to get the right pedestrian accident claims.
Calgary pedestrian accident lawyers can assist with motor vehicle accident claims against the at-fault driver by guiding you through the process to protect and secure accident benefits and fair compensation.
How hiring an accident lawyer in Calgary can help you:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
- Identify all responsible parties, including drivers, insurance companies, or other liable entities.
- Advise on the full extent of compensation you may be entitled to.
- Handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies.
- Prepare and file legal documents accurately and on time.
- Represent you in court if the case proceeds to litigation.
Discuss your case with the local and experienced lawyers at Sidhu Personal Injury Lawyers Calgary. No matter if you are suffering from minor injuries, psychological injuries, or sustained severe injuries like spinal cord injuries, always seek the legal help of our experienced pedestrian accident lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can pedestrians cross safely?
Pedestrians can cross safely by signalling their intent to drivers before entering the street. A helpful method is Point, Pause, Proceed: point across the street where you plan to cross, pause to look both ways and ensure it is safe, and then proceed across the crosswalk. Staying alert, making eye contact with drivers, and using designated crosswalks further reduce the risk of accidents.
Who is at fault if a Jaywalker gets hit in Calgary?
Under Alberta’s Contributory Negligence Act, responsibility can be shared between the pedestrian and the driver depending on the circumstances. For example, if the pedestrian was crossing mid-block but the driver was speeding or distracted, both parties could be partly responsible. Even if partially at fault, seek a personal injury lawyer because a pedestrian may still be entitled to compensation, though the amount could be reduced.
What are the different kinds of crosswalks in Calgary?
Aside from standard marked and unmarked crosswalks, Calgary has several specialized types to improve pedestrian safety. Some marked crosswalks include pedestrian-activated lights, such as overhead flashers with yellow lights and warning signs, or Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) with side-mounted flashing lights. Ladder crosswalks are commonly found near schools and areas with heavy pedestrian activity. Multi-use crosswalks connect pathways and cycling routes, marked with vertical lines and “elephant feet” squares.
