‘An alarming trend’: Nearly 30 fatal vehicle collisions in Calgary last year

Calgary police say more than two dozen car crashes in the city last year resulted in someone losing their life.

2024 was the worst year for fatal collisions since 2013, according to police.

Officers responded to 29 deadly crashes last year, 18 of which involved pedestrians or motorcyclists.

This year isn’t off to a much better start, with three fatal collisions so far in 2025. Two of those incidents involved pedestrians.

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) says this is an alarming trend it doesn’t want to continue.

Although it’s difficult to attribute a single cause for these incidents, police say generally, they are seeing a combination of pedestrians crossing the street without the right of way, and some drivers going through intersections when it’s not always safe to do so.

CPS says there have also been incidents where pedestrians are crossing in marked crosswalks and been hit.

Speed has also been a factor is some of the crashes, according to police, with 35 per cent of 2024’s fatal collisions involving unsafe of excessive speed.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Insp. Paul Wozney of the CPS Traffic Section said. “Motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and everyone else who travels on Calgary roads must keep safety at the forefront of their minds all of the time. We know that as police, we have a role to play too when it comes to enforcing laws around road use, and we remain committed to working with our partners at The City, and others, when it comes to actioning the Safer Mobility Plan.

“We all have a right to make it home safe every single day.”

Road safety tips from Calgary police

In the wake of these incidents, police are reminding drivers and pedestrians of best practices when on the road.

• Use designated crosswalks: Always cross at marked crosswalks or intersections where drivers expect pedestrians.
• Look both ways: Stop at the curb and look left, right and left again before crossing. Be aware of turning vehicles.
• Follow signals: Obey pedestrian signals and use the pedestrian push button if available to activate the ‘walk’ signal.
• Watch for multiple lanes: Be cautious of vehicles in all lanes, as one car stopping doesn’t guarantee others will.
• Avoid jaywalking: Jaywalking can be dangerous as drivers may not expect pedestrians to cross mid-block or in unmarked areas. Cross only at designated crosswalks or intersections.
• Motorists and pedestrians should establish eye contact with each other before anyone proceeds.
• Ensure visibility: Keep vehicle lights in good working condition and use headlights in snow and fog. Wearing bright reflective clothing when out after dark helps drivers spot pedestrians and cyclists.
• Adhere to speed limits at all times: Posted speed limits are designed for ideal weather and road conditions. Slow down and allow for extra time to get to your destination if needed.
• Avoid distracted behaviour: Pedestrians and motorists shouldn’t be using electronic devices or headphones when driving or crossing the road.