Alberta RCMP report 2026 could see most traffic fatalities in over a decade

September 15, 2026 - Calgary, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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Calgary - The Alberta RCMP is urging motorists across the province to make safer choices on the road as 2026 could see the most traffic fatalities since 2015. As of Aug. 31, the Alberta RCMP have recorded 192 traffic fatalities on roads within its jurisdiction, compared with 144 during the same period in 2025.

Based on historical trends, the Alberta RCMP typically records approximately 82 traffic fatalities between September and December. If that pattern continues, 2026 could end with 274 fatalities. June was the only month in 2026 that recorded fewer fatalities than the four-year average. Every other month has exceeded the average.

“Behind these numbers are families, friends, and neighbours grieving the loss of someone they loved,” said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic. “A few seconds of poor decision-making can have lifelong consequences. That's why we're asking every Albertan to stay focused and make safe choices on the road.”

The Alberta RCMP is also seeing increases in both traffic-related injuries and high-risk driving behaviours. Compared to 2022, the number of collisions resulting in non-fatal injuries has risen by 24%. From January to August, officers issued 570 tickets to drivers travelling at least 50 km/h over the speed limit, the highest number recorded since 2022.

Other offences on the rise since 2022 include:

• Use of electronic handheld devices or distracting behaviour violations up 52%
• Impaired operation of a motor vehicle (alcohol and drugs) up 15%
• Driving without due care or attention up 14%
• Intersection violations up 13%

Many of the behaviours contributing to serious collisions and fatalities are entirely preventable, including excessive speeding, distracted driving, and impaired operation. Every safe choice helps ensure drivers, riders, and passengers make it home to the people and communities that matter most. 

The Alberta RCMP would like to remind everyone that safe driving is a shared responsibility:

• Most traffic fatalities are preventable.
• Safe roads require safe choices.
• Passengers can speak up.
• Friends don't let friends drive impaired.
• Traffic fatalities leave empty spaces that never get filled.

Everyone has somewhere to be. Get home safely. For more traffic safety information, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and X @RCMPAlberta

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