Preliminary statistics from Saskatchewan Government Insurance released Monday show 87 people lost their lives in road collisions in 2020 on Saskatchewan roads.
To put that number into perspective, it’s the second-lowest number of road fatalities recorded in a single year in the past six decades. In 2019, 71 people were killed in vehicle crashes, which represented the lowest number of collision deaths ever recorded in Saskatchewan.
The figure is based on data available from police forces in Saskatchewan, and might be adjusted.
The 87 fatalities is also sharply lower than the previous 10-year average of 131.5 road fatalities per year from 2010-2019.
While Saskatchewan has made important strides in reducing collision deaths and injuries, SGI says no number of deaths is acceptable. Every life lost represents a real person who leaves behind a family and friends who are left to mourn the loss.
“Nearly all fatal collisions are preventable; Saskatchewan roads have gotten significantly safer in the last few years, but we must not become complacent or satisfied with these improvements,” said Minister Responsible for SGI Don Morgan. “We all can -- and must -- do more. I applaud everyone who is committed to driving safely. I also want to thank law enforcement who are diligently working to reduce collision deaths and injuries by enforcing traffic laws and contributing to public awareness.”
Drivers have many choices to make when they get behind the wheel. Put your phone away, drive sober, follow the speed limit, put on your seatbelt and follow the rules of the road. As always, take care out there.
