Every year, on the third Sunday of November, the world comes together to remember the millions of lives lost in road traffic crashes. The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDoR) was started by Road Peace in 1993. In 2005, the United Nations endorsed it as a global day to be observed every third Sunday in November each year in recognition of road traffic victims and their families’ loss and suffering. 

Road traffic crashes are a major global public health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.35 million people die each year in road traffic crashes, and an additional 20-50 million people suffer non-fatal injuries, often resulting in long-term disability. These statistics reveal a startling truth – road traffic crashes are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. 

The World Day of Remembrance provides a global platform to: 

• Remember. Honouring the memory of those who have lost their lives in road traffic crashes. It’s a day to reflect on the human toll of these incidents and to offer support to grieving families. 

• Support. Raising Awareness about road safety and the importance of preventing traffic crashes. Promoting safe behaviours, responsible driving, and adequate road infrastructure are key components of this effort. 

• Act. Advocating for policy changes and improvements in road safety. Governments, NGOs, and individuals alike use this day to call for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and the development of safer road systems.