Alberta could see its highest number of traffic deaths in more than a decade, according to new data from the Alberta RCMP. As of August 31, the RCMP had recorded 192 traffic fatalities within its jurisdiction this year, compared to 144 over the same stretch in 2025. Based on typical patterns for the rest of the year, the RCMP says 2026 could end with as many as 274 deaths on the road.

"Behind these numbers are families, friends, and neighbours grieving the loss of someone they loved," said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull of 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 RCMP says risky driving behaviour has climbed alongside the fatality numbers. Non-fatal injury collisions are up 24 per cent compared to 2022, and officers issued 570 tickets this year for drivers going at least 50 km/h over the speed limit — the highest count since 2022. Other violations have also risen sharply over that same period: distracted driving offences are up 52 per cent, impaired driving is up 15 per cent, careless driving is up 14 per cent, and intersection violations are up 13 per cent.

The RCMP says the vast majority of these incidents are preventable, pointing to speeding, distraction, and impairment as the most common factors behind serious crashes. The force is urging drivers to slow down and stay focused, and reminding passengers that they can speak up if they feel unsafe in a vehicle.