What is Pedestrian Accident?
Updated January 24, 2026
An incident where a motor vehicle strikes a person walking, crossing the street, or otherwise on foot, often causing severe injuries.
Understanding Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrians have no protection from vehicle impact, making these accidents particularly dangerous. Drivers generally have a duty to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. However, pedestrians may share fault for jaywalking or darting into traffic.
Examples
- 1Pedestrian struck in crosswalk
- 2Driver hitting person in parking lot
- 3Distracted driver striking jogger
Related Terms
Yield Right of Way
A traffic law requiring drivers to allow other vehicles or pedestrians to proceed first in certain situations. Failure to yield is a common cause of intersection collisions and pedestrian accidents.
Rear-End Collision
An accident where one vehicle strikes the back of another vehicle, typically establishing fault against the following driver.
T-Bone Accident
A collision where the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a T shape, often occurring at intersections.
Head-On Collision
A crash where the fronts of two vehicles collide while traveling in opposite directions, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or death.
Rollover Accident
A crash where a vehicle tips over onto its side or roof, often involving SUVs, trucks, or vehicles with high centers of gravity.
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