Calgary has been grappling with a troubling rise in serious traffic collisions (with reckless driving being a major reason why), which has left both experts and local parents saying they are deeply disturbed by how bystanders reacted to a recent hit-and-run.
Early in the morning at the beginning of March, a young pedestrian was struck by a white sedan while crossing at a marked crosswalk in Calgary’s northeast. The driver then fled the scene. Security footage recorded the injured boy lying on the road in visible pain, attempting to crawl to safety.
According to police, the victim suffered a broken leg and was transported to hospital. Sadly, several vehicles passed the scene without stopping to help. It wasn’t until more than 30 seconds later that a nearby pedestrian rushed over to assist.
This is known as the “bystander effect,” a phenomenon where individuals are less likely to intervene when others are present due to a shared sense of responsibility. Quite often, the assumption is that others have already called for help.
Are there legal obligations for witnesses in Alberta?
In Alberta, anyone who witnesses a pedestrian or vehicle accident has both legal expectations and moral responsibilities, even if they were not directly involved.
A person who witnesses a pedestrian accident is not legally required to intervene, but there are societal responsibilities that apply. Witnesses are strongly encouraged to call 911, remain at the scene, and provide a statement to police. If you are nervous about getting too close, don’t worry. You don’t have to. Remaining at a safe distance is perfectly acceptable, however you are protected if you do decide to step in.
Alberta has “Good Samaritan” protections, which are provided under the Emergency Medical Aid Act. These encourage people to help in emergencies and state that individuals who provide reasonable assistance in good faith, such as checking on an injured person or helping direct traffic, are unlikely to be held legally liable for unintended harm.
Witnesses can also assist police by providing a statement. Sharing details such as what happened, descriptions of vehicles, licence plate numbers, or the direction a driver fled can be essential, particularly in hit-and-run situations.
Additionally, under the Traffic Safety Act, drivers involved in a collision must stop, remain at the scene, and provide assistance. While the law does not require bystanders to physically intervene, at a minimum witnesses should call 911 when safe to do so and especially if there are injuries, significant damage, or if the scene poses a danger to others. Failing to report a serious accident could delay emergency response and worsen outcomes for those involved.
How to avoid a pedestrian accident
It’s imperative to never forget that we don’t only share the road with other vehicles. We also share them with pedestrians, and they are by far the most vulnerable.
Defensive driving (now called proactive driving) involves constantly assessing surroundings and allowing yourself the time and space to react if needed.
Avoiding a pedestrian accident starts with awareness and responsible behaviour. Speed limits are there for a reason and should always be adhered to, especially in school and playground zones. Stay alert for people at crosswalks and refresh your understanding of what unmarked crosswalks are. Drivers must always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, so slowing down and scanning ahead is critical. Always avoid distractions such as mobile devices and be extra cautious in poor weather or low visibility.
The Canadian way
Helping others is simply the Canadian way. Just as driving safely is. And you will be rewarded for both.
Everyone knows that safe driving habits are recognized with lower auto insurance rates, plus it’s simply the right way to operate a vehicle. If your auto insurance rates keep rising while you are claims-free, it might be a good time to call an experienced insurance broker such as us at Lane’s. Remember, you are free to switch your insurance coverage at any time, although you may be subject to penalties.
Lane’s Insurance is a leading Alberta-based brokerage working out of Calgary, Banff, Edmonton and greater Alberta. Our brokers work hard to find you the very best coverage at the lowest possible rates, and will always be available to answer your insurance-related questions.
