The Manitoba RCMP say they have attended 43 fatal collisions so far in 2026, resulting in 48 deaths — a figure they describe as worrying and significantly above recent norms. The number of collision-related fatalities is up 23 per cent compared with this time last year and 34 per cent higher than the five-year average, according to RCMP figures released this week.
Recent spike concentrated in summer months
RCMP Traffic Services reported that 29 fatal collisions occurred within their jurisdiction during the past three months, including 10 in July alone. Those figures include fatalities involving on-road vehicles as well as off-road machines such as all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes.
| Measure | 2026 (to date) | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Fatal collisions attended by RCMP | 43 | — |
| Fatalities | 48 | Up 23% vs same time in 2025; up 34% vs five-year average |
| Off-road vehicle deaths | 5 | At least 3 without helmets |
| Fatal collisions with confirmed/suspected impairment | 12 | RCMP awaiting toxicology for 10 more |
RCMP message to Manitobans
Sergeant Ryan Landry of RCMP Traffic Services told the public the trend should be a cause for concern and urged people travelling this summer to prioritise safety.
“These numbers should be concerning to all Manitobans,” Sgt. Ryan Landry said. “As we look forward to another busy long weekend on our highways and roads, we strongly encourage all motorists to make safe decisions when they get behind the wheel – for themselves, for their passengers and for others sharing the road.”
Impairment and off-road risks
So far in 2026, alcohol and/or drug impairment is confirmed or suspected in 12 of the fatal collisions, with toxicology results still pending in 10 additional cases. For context, impairment was confirmed or suspected in 18 fatalities for the whole of 2025.
The tally of 48 fatalities includes five people who died while riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-road vehicles (ORVs) or dirt bikes; at least three of those riders were not wearing helmets. RCMP noted that any vehicle-related death where alcohol or drugs are a contributing factor is preventable.
Advice for motorists and recreational riders
As long-weekend travel and outdoor activity climb, RCMP and road-safety advocates stress behaviours that reduce risk. Key reminders include:
- Do not drive impaired — by alcohol, drugs or prescription medications that affect ability to drive.
- Wear helmets when operating ATVs, dirt bikes or other ORVs; ensure seatbelts are fastened where available.
- Observe posted speed limits and adjust speed for road and weather conditions.
- Be vigilant for motorcyclists, cyclists, pedestrians and wildlife, especially on rural routes.
- Stick to established trails when operating off-road vehicles and avoid risky manoeuvres.
Community impact and prevention
The surge in deaths reverberates across families and communities, compounding the grief of those who lose loved ones. RCMP have framed several of the recent tragedies as preventable — tied to impairment, lack of protective gear or risky driving behaviours. Their message is both a public-safety warning and an appeal for collective responsibility.
Local police agencies, emergency medical services and community groups often step up outreach during high-travel periods, offering education on impaired driving and safe recreation. RCMP said they continue to investigate each collision, and are awaiting further toxicology results that will clarify the role of substances in many of these incidents.
What to do if you’re travelling
Motorists planning trips over the coming long weekend should prepare: plan routes, check weather and road conditions, refrain from using mobile devices while driving, and have a designated sober driver if consuming alcohol. Riders of off-road machines should check protective gear and follow local regulations.
While the RCMP statistics stretch across Manitoba’s wide geography, the common thread is avoidable risk. As summer activities continue, authorities are urging residents to help reverse the trend — and to keep this year’s long-weekend memories free of tragedy.
