Quebec’s automobile insurance authority has released its annual safety report, revealing a mixed picture of road safety in the province. While 2025 saw a decline in traffic fatalities compared to the previous year, the number of injuries resulting from collisions has increased significantly. This report highlights both progress and ongoing challenges in ensuring safety on Quebec’s roads.
Decline in Fatalities
In 2025, Quebec recorded a total of 371 road deaths, representing a decrease of eight fatalities compared to 2024. This decline also reflects a slight drop in the rate of traffic-related deaths per 100,000 residents, which fell from 4.2 to 4.1. Despite these improvements, the statistics reveal that the battle against road safety is far from over.
Rising Injury Statistics
Contrastingly, the data indicates a troubling rise in the number of individuals injured in traffic incidents. The total number of people involved in collisions surged by 5.7 per cent year-on-year, bringing the figure to 30,018. Although the number of serious injuries remained relatively stable, with only one additional case compared to the previous year, less severe injuries spiked dramatically. A total of 28,365 individuals suffered from minor injuries, marking an increase of 1,632 over 2024.
Serge Lamontagne, president and CEO of the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), acknowledged the improvements but expressed concern over the rising injury numbers. He emphasised the ongoing risks, stating, “One death is always one death too many. Behind these numbers are lives lost and families forever scarred.”
Trends Among Young and Elderly Drivers
A closer examination of the data reveals that certain demographics are experiencing greater risks. The report indicates an uptick in fatalities and injuries among young drivers aged 15 to 24, as well as among seniors aged 75 and older. Furthermore, collisions involving heavy vehicles and pedestrians are increasingly common, underscoring the need for targeted safety measures.
In response to these findings, Lamontagne announced plans for enhanced awareness campaigns aimed at reducing road deaths and injuries, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
The historical context of road safety in Quebec is noteworthy. The highest number of road fatalities recorded in the province occurred in 1973, with a staggering 2,209 deaths. Since then, there has been a significant decline in fatalities, even as the number of vehicles and drivers on the road continues to grow. This trend highlights the effectiveness of past safety initiatives, but also points to the need for ongoing vigilance.
The SAAQ’s commitment to improving road safety is evident in its proactive approach to awareness and education. With the landscape of road usage evolving, particularly post-pandemic, there is an urgent need for continuous adaptation and innovation in safety strategies.
Why it Matters
The implications of this report extend beyond mere statistics; they reflect the lives of individuals and families affected by road incidents in Quebec. As the province grapples with an increase in injuries, particularly among young and elderly populations, the importance of effective road safety measures cannot be overstated. Each statistic represents a story, a loved one, and a community impacted by the harsh realities of traffic accidents. Continued efforts to enhance awareness and implement effective safety campaigns are crucial to ensuring that progress is made, and lives are saved on Quebec’s roads.
