Rising Road Rage Concerns Among Calgary Drivers

Calgary's roadways are experiencing a notable increase in aggressive driving, with recent reports underscoring rising tensions among motorists. Data from the Calgary Police Service reveals a significant surge in road rage incidents reported to 911, climbing from over 900 in 2020 to 2,259 in 2023, and further to 2,301 in the past year. This represents a 13 percent increase compared to the three-year average between 2021 and 2023.

This escalating behaviour raises serious concerns for traffic safety and the mental well-being of commuters across the city. The rise in aggression coincides with Calgary's rapid population growth, which saw an impressive surge of 95,784 people in 2023, tripling the 20-year average. This growth, coupled with ongoing, extensive construction projects throughout 2024 and extending into 2025, including major infrastructure upgrades and Green Line LRT development, is contributing to increased traffic congestion and commuter frustration. Many Calgarians find themselves navigating frequent lane closures, detours, and reduced speed limits, which can undoubtedly fuel impatience on the roads.

Traffic safety remains a top concern for residents, consistently ranking among the top three issues in the Calgary Police Commission Citizen Survey. Law enforcement and community leaders are actively urged to address these growing tensions to foster safer commuting experiences for all residents.

As Calgary continues to expand, maintaining road safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers are reminded to exercise patience and adopt a more considerate approach behind the wheel, especially given the current challenges of increased volume and construction.