West Shore RCMP investigated nearly 700 crashes in first eight months of 2026

Nearly 700 motor vehicle collisions have been investigated on West Shore roads during the first eight months of 2026, according to new figures released by West Shore RCMP.

Between January 1st and August 31st, officers investigated 699 collisions, issued 916 violation tickets and gave 488 warnings for motor vehicle offences.

Police also conducted 130 impaired-driving investigations during the same eight-month period.

The figures were released as West Shore RCMP highlighted its ongoing traffic enforcement efforts, including several recent traffic stops conducted by Superintendent Terry Gillespie while travelling to meetings throughout the region.

According to police, Gillespie issued tickets for a range of alleged violations, including failing to stop at a stop sign, following too closely, failing to produce a driver’s licence and having an illegible licence plate.

RCMP described the stops as a routine part of policing and an opportunity to address unsafe or unlawful driving when it is observed.

“Traffic enforcement is one part of the West Shore RCMP’s broader road-safety mandate,” said Gillespie.

“Officers regularly conduct enforcement in response to complaints, collision trends and observed driving behaviour, with a focus on reducing the likelihood and severity of collisions.”

Gillespie said traffic enforcement is not solely about handing out tickets, but is also intended to encourage safer behaviour on local roads.

“Road safety is something all of our officers have a role in,” Gillespie said.

“Traffic enforcement is not simply about issuing tickets. Our goal is to encourage safe driving behaviour and reduce the risks faced by drivers, passengers, pedestrians and other road users. Enforcement, education and visibility all have a role to play.”

West Shore RCMP is reminding motorists to obey posted signs and speed limits, maintain a safe following distance and remain attentive behind the wheel.

Drivers are also being reminded to ensure they are properly licensed and that their vehicles comply with provincial requirements.

Police say traffic enforcement will continue to focus on driving behaviours that put motorists, passengers, pedestrians and other road users at risk.