What to Do After a Pedestrian Collision: First Aid and CPR Guide in Canada

Understanding Vehicle Impact Injuries and Emergency Response

Being struck by a vehicle can cause serious and life-threatening injuries within seconds. Knowing what to do if someone is hit by a car or how to respond when a person is unresponsive after an impact is critical for bystanders.

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, and across Canada, pedestrian incidents can occur on residential streets, parking lots, and low-light areas. Quick action—calling 911 and providing first aid or CPR—can help support survival while emergency services are on the way.

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First Aid & Workplace Relevance in Canada

Vehicle-related injuries can happen anywhere, including Winnipeg neighbourhoods like Transcona, St. Vital, and Downtown Winnipeg, especially in areas with limited lighting or visibility.

First aid training is important for:

• Workers in construction, delivery, and road environments
• Security personnel and supervisors
• Drivers and pedestrians
• Community members and families

Programs such as CPR training Winnipeg, first aid certification Manitoba, and emergency response training Canada prepare individuals to respond to trauma-related emergencies.

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Real-Life Scenario: Firefighter Struck by Vehicle in Langley

In Langley, 54-year-old firefighter Mark Janson was walking his dog along 240th Street near 56th Avenue—an area close to his home—when he was struck by a pickup truck.

The 24-year-old driver remained at the scene and, along with other witnesses, began CPR before emergency responders arrived. Janson was transported to a healthcare facility but later died from his injuries.

According to the RCMP, the driver was cooperative and visibly distressed. Investigators reported that there were no streetlights in the area, and neither speed nor alcohol were considered contributing factors. The vehicle was seized for mechanical inspection.

This tragic incident highlights how quickly serious injuries can occur and how bystanders may become the first responders.

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Common Injuries from Vehicle Impacts

When a person is struck by a vehicle, injuries can vary depending on speed, angle, and environment. Common injuries include:

Head Injuries and Concussions

• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion or disorientation
• Head pain or dizziness

Spinal Injuries

• Neck or back pain
• Loss of movement or sensation
• Difficulty breathing

Broken Bones (Fractures)

• Arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis
• Inability to move or bear weight

Bruising and Internal Injury

• Visible bruising or swelling
• Pain without obvious external injury

Soft Tissue Injuries

• Cuts, scrapes, and lacerations

Some injuries may not be immediately visible, which is why careful assessment is important.

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Symptoms and Warning Signs

After a collision, watch for:

• Unresponsiveness
• Difficulty or abnormal breathing
• Severe pain or inability to move
• Bleeding or visible injuries
• Confusion or unusual behaviour

These signs indicate the need for immediate emergency response.

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First Aid Response: What to Do

Based on standard first aid training practices in Canada:

1. Ensure scene safety (watch for traffic hazards)
2. Call 911 immediately
3. Avoid moving the person unless necessary for safety
4. Support the head and neck if spinal injury is suspected
5. Control any visible bleeding with direct pressure
6. Check breathing and responsiveness
7. Begin CPR if unresponsive and not breathing normally

These steps are commonly taught in certified first aid and CPR courses across Canada.

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Spinal Injury Considerations

Because vehicle impacts can involve sudden force, spinal injuries are a concern.

General safety principles include:

• Keep the person as still as possible
• Avoid twisting or moving the head and neck
• Provide reassurance while waiting for help

Proper handling helps reduce the risk of further injury.

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Prevention and Workplace Safety Considerations

In Winnipeg and across Manitoba, pedestrian and road safety can be improved by:

• Increasing visibility (reflective clothing, lighting)
• Being cautious in low-light or unlit areas
• Following traffic safety practices
• Training workers in roadside safety procedures
• Promoting awareness for both drivers and pedestrians

Prepared communities reduce the risk of serious incidents.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should you do first if someone is hit by a vehicle?

Ensure the area is safe and call 911 immediately. Then check the person’s condition and provide first aid as needed while waiting for emergency responders.

Should you move someone after a vehicle collision?

Only move them if necessary for safety. If a spinal injury is suspected, keep them still and support the head and neck.

Can CPR help after a serious impact?

If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, CPR may help maintain circulation until emergency services arrive.

What are signs of a concussion after a collision?

Confusion, dizziness, headache, or loss of consciousness may indicate a concussion. These signs require medical evaluation.

Why is first aid training important in these situations?

Bystanders are often the first to respond. Training helps individuals act quickly and confidently during emergencies.

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Educational Note

This article is for general awareness and reflects techniques commonly taught in certified first aid and CPR training across Canada. Early response and scene safety are critical in trauma situations.