World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims honours the memory of those who have lost their lives or been seriously injured in road traffic crashes. It is also an opportunity to recognize the dedication of emergency services personnel, police, and medical professionals who deal with the traumatic aftermath of such devastating events. The observance promotes road safety awareness and encourages adopting best practices worldwide to prevent and reduce road traffic accidents.

Established by the European Federation of Road Traffic Victims in 1993, the World Day of Remembrance was later adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005. The purpose was to provide a platform for road traffic victims and their families to remember their loved ones and to draw attention to the often devastating and long-lasting impact of road crashes. Over time, the observance gained international recognition and support. Like many other countries, New Zealand faces significant challenges in tackling road safety issues. In 2020 alone, the country experienced 318 fatal crashes, resulting in 337 deaths. The day serves as a sobering reminder of the tragic consequences of road accidents for families and communities in New Zealand, reinforcing the importance of government, organisations, and individuals' effort to improve road safety.

Observances of the World Day of Remembrance in New Zealand include memorial services, vigils, and moments of silence to honour and remember the victims of road traffic accidents. The events are usually organised by road safety organisations, community groups, and affected families. Road safety campaigns and awareness programs are also conducted to promote safer road use behaviour and prevent further tragedies. The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims is observed internationally annually on the third Sunday of November.

Facts about Road Traffic Victims

• According to the World Health Organization, in 2023, car accidents have been responsible for about 1.3 million death worldwide.
• According to the World Health Organization, road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5-29 years.
• A significant number of road traffic fatalities in New Zealand involve alcohol. Approximately 25% to 30% of all fatal crashes involve a driver whose blood-alcohol level is above the legal limit.
• Speeding is another major contributing factor in road traffic fatalities in New Zealand. Around 25%-35% of fatal crashes involve a driver who has been deemed to be driving at excessive speeds.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Explore Getting Started for ideas on how to plan a commemorative event for World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
• Read through the WHO's informative World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims Guide.
• Educate yourself and others about road safety to prevent accidents. Attend or organize road safety workshops, seminars, or training sessions in your community.
• Reach out to your local government representatives and advocate for stronger road safety policies, stricter regulations, and improved infrastructure. Lobby for safer roads, improved signage, and the implementation of traffic calming measures.