Alberta RCMP are stepping up traffic enforcement over the Thanksgiving long weekend, citing a rise in fatal collisions on provincial roads as fall weather and shorter daylight hours increase driving risk.
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The enhanced patrols are part of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police’s #OperationImpact2026 campaign, running under the theme “Safety is in YOUR hands,” according to Alberta RCMP.
Operation Impact 2026 targets fall collisions
Alberta RCMP say the campaign is aimed at reducing collisions, injuries and fatalities as more drivers hit the road for the holiday weekend.
“We’re seeing a concerning trend in fatal collisions on Alberta roads,” said Cpl. Mike Warman of Alberta RCMP Traffic Services.
“All road users have a part to play in road safety. By making responsible choices behind the wheel and looking out for one another, we can help prevent tragedies and keep our roads safe,” Warman said.
What drivers are being asked to do
Alberta RCMP are asking motorists to avoid four behaviours linked to serious collisions: impaired driving, fatigued driving, distracted driving and aggressive driving.
Police say drivers should preset hands-free devices, GPS units and music before setting out, and only adjust them while safely parked.
Motorists are also reminded to obey posted speed limits and follow the rules of the road. Anyone who witnesses dangerous or impaired driving over the long weekend is asked to call 911.
The push follows a similar seatbelt safety campaign earlier this year, when Alberta RCMP flagged increasing fines for unbelted drivers and passengers.
Border City commuters face two sets of rules
For Lloydminster residents who cross the Alberta-Saskatchewan boundary daily for work, school or errands, the fall safety push is a reminder that enforcement priorities and traffic rules can shift from block to block.
Saskatchewn’s SGI has run its own seasonal messaging, including a recent intersection safety campaign targeting collisions at stop signs and lights, a common trouble spot for drivers unfamiliar with signage differences on either side of the Border City.
Alberta RCMP issued similar guidance over last year’s Thanksgiving weekend, when traffic volumes on Highway 16 and other regional routes typically climb as families travel for the holiday.
With winter approaching, police say fall is also the time drivers should begin preparing vehicles for seasonal conditions, following patterns seen in past advisories on poor winter road conditions across the region.
Drivers with questions about enforcement or road safety can contact their local RCMP detachment. Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving is asked to call 911 immediately.
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