This release was issued under a previous government.

Today marks the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims.

Last year in Alberta, there were 358 traffic-related fatalities and 18,650 injuries. In Canada, almost 2,100 people were killed, and another 165,000 were injured, in 2013.

“One fatality on our roads is one too many. That’s why we all need to do better by taking personal responsibility behind the wheel to ensure everyone gets home safe and sound at the end of each day.”

Wayne Drysdale, Minister of Transportation

Since the first Traffic Safety Plan was introduced in 2007, the number of fatalities in Alberta has declined by 22 per cent. This is thanks to the ongoing efforts of government, law enforcement and the many traffic safety partners working together to find solutions. 

The National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims was established in 1993 by a British charity called RoadPeace and is now overseen by the World Health Organization.

Events will be held nationwide to mark the day. In Alberta, activities will occur throughout the week and will be hosted in a number of communities.