Saskatoon sees rising collisions despite fewer traffic tickets

Saskatoon is experiencing population growth, which has led to an increase in traffic collisions. While the number of traffic tickets issued by police has decreased, both fatal and non-fatal accidents have risen significantly. In 2023, there were four fatal traffic collisions and over 4,200 other incidents involving injuries or property damage. In 2024, those numbers increased to nine fatal collisions, a rise of 125 percent, and nearly 4,700 non-fatal collisions. Police attribute this increase to the city’s growing population, which is expanding faster than expected. Saskatoon Police Service Chief Cameron McBride noted that with more people on the road, the likelihood of accidents also rises. Areas with the highest number of collisions in 2024 included the Central Business District and North Industrial, among others. To address the rise in collisions, the police have trained additional Traffic Unit members to handle crash investigations. McBride emphasized that preventing future accidents will require a focus on eradicating dangerous driving behaviors. He highlighted that a combination of enforcement of traffic laws and public education is essential for improving road safety. While there is no single solution to prevent all collisions, police believe stricter enforcement of speeding and distracted driving laws will help make Saskatoon’s roads safer.