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Seventeen traffic deaths in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions since May 1st

Police concerned about car crashes with long weekend looming...

Edmonton, AB –May has proved to be a deadly month with 17 deaths already due to motor vehicle collisions on roads and highways within RCMP jurisdictions in Alberta. Seven of those who died were under the age of 20. The RCMP has laid four charges in relation to these deaths, with investigations ongoing in others. More than half of these fatal collisions occurred during daylight hours. The RCMP responded to 11 traffic fatalities during the first two weeks of May last year and seven in the same time period in 2014.

“Seventeen murders over a two week period would cause most Albertans to sit up and ask what’s going on,” said Superintendent Ian Lawson, Officer-In-Charge of Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “That many deaths should make every driver concerned about safety on the road.”

Two motorcyclists, who were driving responsibly, died after being hit by motorists who failed to notice them. The RCMP is urging all drivers to keep a careful eye out for cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians.

The RCMP is reminding motorists that patience behind the wheel goes a long way in reducing the possibility of a collision. Police expect to see traffic volumes increase significantly on the upcoming long weekend and are reminding motorists to slow down, buckle up and keep their eyes on the road. Driver frustration in the face of slower traffic flow can result in motorists taking unnecessary risks like speeding and unsafe lane changes.

Last year, four people died due to motor vehicle collisions within RCMP jurisdictions in Alberta over the Victoria Day weekend.