SGI reports 87 deaths on Saskatchewan roads in 2021

The number of fatalities on Saskatchewan roads continued its long-term downward trend in 2021.

According to preliminary data released by SGI on Wednesday, 87 people died on the province’s roads last year. That was well below the average of 123.4 for the previous 10 years.

In fact, the numbers for the last three years represent the three lowest totals since Saskatchewan started keeping records in the 1950s. There were 71 deaths on the province’s roads in 2019 and 87 in 2020.

“It’s important not to lose sight of the fact that these aren’t simply numbers on a chart,” Minister Responsible for SGI Don Morgan said in a media release. “No one should ever die due to a motor vehicle collision, and no family should ever have to experience this type of loss.”

The SGI data showed the leading cause of fatalities remained impaired driving.

In more than one-third of the deaths involving vehicle occupants who had seatbelts available to them (therefore excluding pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists), the victims weren’t properly restrained.

Speeding and driver distraction each were factors in more than 20 per cent of the deaths.

“Statistically speaking, Saskatchewan roads are the safest they’ve ever been,” SGI vice-president of traffic safety Kwei Quaye said in the release.

“However, there is still significant room for improvement, and every driver has the ability to contribute to safer roads for themselves, other drivers and all road users. SGI will continue our dedicated efforts to reduce crash fatalities, in conjunction with our road safety partners.”