The Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) released data showing that 18 people lost their lives on Quebec roads during the 2026 construction holiday period. The tally reflects all road‑related fatalities that occurred while many construction projects were paused for the seasonal break.
The figure arrives at a time when overall road‑death numbers in the province have shown little change over the past ten years. Annual statistics have hovered around the same level, indicating a stable but persistent risk for drivers and passengers across Quebec.
In its report, the SAAQ emphasized that the majority of the 18 deaths could have been avoided. While the agency did not provide specific circumstances for each incident, it highlighted the potential for prevention through adherence to safety measures and cautious driving practices.
The construction holiday, a traditional pause in road work, often sees drivers encountering altered traffic patterns and temporary signage. The SAAQ’s statement underscores the importance of vigilance during this interval, noting that the reduction in construction activity does not eliminate the need for road safety awareness. The agency continues to monitor trends and encourages motorists to follow existing regulations to reduce the likelihood of future fatalities.
No additional details about the locations, ages of the victims, or the nature of the accidents were disclosed in the brief. The SAAQ’s release serves as a reminder that, despite a decade of steady fatality rates, each loss remains a preventable event when safety protocols are fully observed.