World Day of Remembrance 2025

How many people do you know who have been injured on the road? How about people who have died, or who have lost a friend or family member to a traffic crash? Unfortunately, we have all heard stories or know someone who has been impacted by the crashes that occur every day on roads. On average, 1.19 million lives are lost to crashes worldwide every year (World Health Organization). In memory of those lost talents, the dreams cut short, the families forever changed, we observe the World Day of Remembrance and highlight the crucial need for safer roads.

Since 1994, November 16th has been dedicated to remembering and celebrating the lives lost on the world’s roadways, as well as supporting the loved ones of victims and the emergency responders who work to minimize the impacts of crashes. This day is not only about reflection  - it is a call to stand together and demand safe streets for everyone. 

Advocates behind the World Day of Remembrance collaborate with organizations and communities that support safe infrastructure by calling for protections for all roadway users and eliminating traffic fatalities. In the United States, partners such as the Vision Zero Network and Families for Safe Streets advocate for improved infrastructure and increased support for victims and bereaved families. Their work reminds us that change is possible, but only if we keep pushing.

In 2023, the United States experienced 44,762 deaths from motor vehicle crashes (National Safety Council). Nearly 20% of these - 8,480 people - were walking or on bicycles when they were killed (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). In that same year, Georgia's roadways saw 1,615 fatalities in traffic crashes, 310 of which were pedestrian fatalities and 25 were bicyclists (United States Department of Transportation). Through our partnership with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and the Georgia Department of Transportation, Go Georgia works to eliminate vulnerable road user deaths. While we continue to see a steady decline in these numbers, every life lost is one too many. We must continue to provide safe infrastructure, education, and good policy in communities across the state while remembering those who lost their lives on the road. 

How you can participate in World Day of Remembrance: 

No matter where you are in Georgia, you may be able to attend virtual events dedicated to sharing stories about road victims, celebrating first responders, and addressing the most hazardous elements of our roadways. You can also share posts in your social media networks. Check with your local advocacy groups in bicycling/pedestrian safety to see if they are organizing any events this month. Your voice, your presence, and your willingness to stand up for safer streets truly make a difference. Even a single action, such as sharing a story, making a donation, or engaging in a conversation, can help save lives.

Learn more & take action:

1. Review our policy initiatives - see how we’re working to make Georgia safer and how you can help move critical legislation forward.
2. Make a year-end donation to support Go Georgia. Your support fuels the education, advocacy, and outreach needed to protect people walking, biking, and rolling.
3. Discover resources through the GOHS highway safety programs. Learn how statewide programs are catalyzing change and how you can get involved.

On this World Day of Remembrance, let’s honor those we’ve lost by fighting for the future they deserved, a future where everyone gets home safely.