Saskatchewan’s rural roads in 2024 saw the most fatalities in 6 years: RCMP

(David Prisciak/CTV News)

Rural roads in Saskatchewan were especially deadly last year, according to the RCMP.

In 2024, members of the Saskatchewan RCMP responded to 77 fatal crashes that left 88 people dead.

Far more were left seriously injured. Throughout the year, a total of 271 collisions resulted in serious injuries – representing a 43 per cent increase from 2023.

Saskatchewan RCMP say the majority of crashes last year that led to fatalities and serious injuries were caused by four main factors.

They include impaired driving, dangerous driving behaviour, speeding and failing to use a seatbelt.

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Those most at risk of being involved in a fatal or serious crash are those aged 16 to 25, according to RCMP – adding that male drivers are more likely to be at fault in both serious and fatal crashes.

Supt. Grant St. Germaine, the officer in charge of the Saskatchewan RCMP traffic services, pointed out that most collisions occur later in the day – with more than 60 per cent happening between noon and midnight.

The majority of serious and fatal crashes in the province are also single vehicle incidents.

As of July 31, the Saskatchewan RCMP have responded to 51 fatal crashes – resulting in 54 deaths.

Marking an increase of 13 from the same point last year, nearly 40 per cent of the deaths were related to someone in the vehicle not wearing their seatbelt.

“It’s unfortunate that I have to keep repeating the basic driving safety tips. But we continue to see risky driving behaviour contributing to serious collisions,” St. Germaine explained.

“Remember, always obey posted speed limits, never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs, put the phone down and always remember to wear your seatbelt – it may keep you alive.”