News release
RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador report decrease in roadway fatalities in 2025
March 4, 2026
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St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP
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The number of fatal crashes and collisions and total roadway fatalities in areas served by RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador was down by almost 50% in 2025, compared to the previous year.
Officers responded to 15 fatal motor vehicle crashes or collisions in 2025, nearly half what was recorded in each of the previous two years. Seven of these incidents took place on the Trans-Canada Highway, with the other eight occurring on secondary roads across the province, and three were categorized as moose-vehicle collisions.
Tragically, 16 people, including one pedestrian and two motorcyclists, lost their lives on our roads last year. While this number also represents a dramatic decrease from the previous year (33), it is still far too many.
“Losing a loved one in a roadway crash is such an unexpected and often preventable tragedy. It is one that has devastating impacts for so many – for families, friends, supporters and entire communities,” says Superintendent Paul Peddle, RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador. “While we are pleased to see a large decline in the number of fatalities on our roads last year, we know we must continue our education and enforcement efforts to help keep roadways for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Seatbelt use, a common contributor in roadway fatalities, also showed improvement year-over-year. In 2025, police confirmed that 18% of those lost in crashes and collisions (or three individuals) were not wearing seatbelts, compared to 58% in 2024.
RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to promoting road safety through education and enforcement of the law. On every shift and every patrol, officers are looking for and responding to reports of impaired drivers, aggressive drivers, distracted drivers and those who choose not to follow the laws, placing themselves and others at unnecessary risk.
To those in our communities and on our roads that take action, like calling 9-1-1 to report suspected impaired drivers and dangerous driving — thank you. When you step up and make that call, you can help save lives.