The Kansas Department of Transportation encourages everyone to acknowledge World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDoR), observed globally on November 17 this year. The day honors those killed or seriously injured in traffic accidents. It recognizes the victims, their families, and communities impacted by traffic crashes, while encouraging everyone to take action to improve road safety. The theme for this year is “Remember. Support. Act.”

WDoR aims to remember those killed and seriously injured in traffic crashes, recognize the efforts of emergency services, advocate for the victims and their families, and promote ways to prevent traffic deaths and injuries. In 2023, 387 Kansans lost their lives in traffic accidents. While preliminary data suggests a decline in fatal crashes this year, more efforts are needed to further reduce fatalities.

“Every life lost to a roadway incident is preventable,” said Lorraine Martin, National Safety Council (NSC) president and CEO. “On World Day of Remembrance, we honor those we’ve lost and renew our commitment to build a future where every journey ends in reaching your destination without harm. We can all contribute to safer roads by adopting strategies that prioritize the safety of all road users.”

In addition, Nov. 18 to 22 is recognized as Crash Responder Safety Week, which honors those who work to clear roadways after crashes and encourages greater awareness to protect responders. This year’s theme is “Responders Ahead! Reduce Your Speed As You Proceed.” Kansas’ Move Over law requires drivers to either move over or slow down when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle with flashing lights, including towing and recovery vehicles traveling in the same direction.

NSC has a video available to the public, with stories of resilience and advocacy for safer roads. More information about WDoR can be found here.