RCMP have released some sobering and shocking statistics on a spike in fatal collisions in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The number of collisions in RCMP jurisdiction between April 1 and June 30 of this year has more than doubled from the same period the year before, and the number of deaths has tripled.

RCMP responded to a total of 12 incidents resulting in the loss of 16 lives over that three-month period. Five people died in collisions over the same period in 2021.

Police say contributing factors in the fatal incidents included impaired driving, aggressive driving and distracted driving as well as a lack of seat belt and helmet use.

RCMP warn that single vehicle and multi-vehicle crashes, mostly crossing over the centre line, are happening all over the province, at all hours of the day and involving all ages.