Manitoba RCMP respond to fewer fatal collisions in 2014

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Published on Monday, January 12, 2015

Submitted article

One death on Manitoba roadways is one too many, but 2014 saw a significantly lower number of fatal collisions than average.

The RCMP have reported that in 2014, there were 68 fatal collisions on Manitoba roadways resulting in 73 deaths. In 2013, there were 81 fatal collisions resulting in 95 deaths. The five-year average between 2009-2013 for fatal collisions is 82.8 with 92 deaths.

In the eastern part of the province, there were 27 fatal collisions resulting in 30 deaths. There were 29 fatal collisions resulting in 30 deaths in the western Manitoba, and northern Manitoba saw 12 fatal collisions resulting in 13 deaths. Of the 68 fatal collisions, 59 were roadway crashes compared to 69 in 2013 and nine were off-road vehicle crashes, compared to 12 in 2013.

Many of the fatal collisions RCMP responded to in 2014 were preventable. In 56% of the collisions, speed or driving too fast for road conditions was cited. Impairment by alcohol or drugs was involved in 43% of the collisions, with the average blood alcohol content of tested drivers being two and a half times the legal limit.

In seatbelt-applicable crashes, 48% of the deceased were not wearing seatbelts. In off-road vehicle motorcycle crashes, 58% of the deceased were not wearing helmets.

One fatal collision is presumed caused by a driver using a hand-held electronic device while driving.

While the overall number of fatal collisions in Manitoba was lower in 2014, the fact remains that 73 Manitobans lost their lives on provincial roadways. The RCMP asks all motorists to slow down, buckle up, and drive sober.