RCMP concerned about increase in road fatalities

An increase in road fatalities has Manitoba RCMP asking people to make safe decisions.

As of the end of July, police had already responded to 43 fatal collisions that resulted in 48 deaths this year. That’s up by 23 percent from the same time last year when 39 deaths had been reported.

It’s also trending higher as RCMP report that those numbers are 34 percent higher than the five-year average.

Police say the causes of the crashes are also concerning.

For the first seven months of 2026, alcohol or drug impairment is either confirmed or suspected in 12 fatal collisions, representing more than one in four crashes.

In all of 2025, 18 fatalities were associated with impairment.

The fatalities also include five who died while riding all-terrain, off-road vehicles, or dirt bikes and police say helmets were not worn in three of those cases.

The last three months have seen an uptick as well.

A total of 29 fatal collisions have occurred in the last three months with 10 in July.

RCMP Traffic Services Sgt. Ryan Landry said this should be concerning all Manitobans.

“We strongly encourage all motorists to make safe decisions when they get behind the wheel, for themselves, for their passengers and for others sharing the road,” he said.

RCMP urged drivers to stay sober, be on the lookout for motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians, be mindful of wildlife and follow posted speed limits. Those driving off-road vehicles should wear helmets, fasten seatbelts and stick to established trails.

Landry said summer is meant for making memories.

“Help ensure those memories are positive for everyone by driving sober, being aware of your surroundings and following the rules of the road and the trails,” he said.