Some troubling numbers have come in from the Manitoba RCMP.
Officers have already responded to 43 fatal collisions in 2026. That has resulted in 48 deaths. The number of collision-related deaths is up 23 per cent from this time last year – when 39 deaths had been recorded – and is 34 per cent above the five-year average.
Twenty-nine fatal collisions have occurred in the Manitoba RCMP's jurisdiction in the last three months alone, including 10 so far in July.
The next time you hit the road, RCMP Traffic Services Sgt. Ryan Landry says be mindful and cautious.
"Make sure you aren't driving when you've had drinks," said Landry. "Have a sober driver. If you're operating an ATV or off-road vehicle, do so safely, and always wear a helmet. Make sure you're wearing seatbelts in all vehicles equipped with them."
The 48 fatalities this year include five who have died while riding all-terrain, off-road vehicles, or dirt bikes – and helmets were not worn in at least three of those incidents.
For the first seven months of 2026, alcohol and/or drug impairment is either confirmed or suspected in 12 fatal collisions, with RCMP awaiting results from toxicology tests in 10 of those cases. By comparison, impairment was confirmed or suspected in 18 fatalities for all of 2025.
Any vehicle-related death where alcohol or drugs is a contributing factor is entirely preventable. Road safety is everyone's responsibility.
The RCMP also asks drivers to be on the lookout for motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Don't forget to be mindful of wildlife and follow posted speed limits.
We all play a part in road safety.
"We want people to be safe, and that's all aspects of driving," ended Landry. "Driving is not a right; it's a privilege. We have to respect that privilege. We have to be mindful of the road and the other people on it. We have to drive by the rules. We want people to do lane changes properly, put your phone down, and don't be distracted. Pay attention and get to where you're going safely."
In a recent survey conducted by CAA Manitoba, 98 per cent of Manitoba drivers have witnessed dangerous driving behaviours on Manitoba roads. 75 per cent have witnessed distracted driving, and 74 per cent have witnessed unsafe lane changes.
However, only 59 per cent admit engaging in at least one of the dangerous driving behaviours themselves. This reveals a significant disconnect between what drivers see and how they assess their own actions behind the wheel.
83 per cent of respondents reported they've witnessed Manitoba drivers speeding.
