World Day of Remembrance: Honoring Lives, Fueling Change for Safer Roads in Florida
On November 17, 2023, we gathered at the intersection of State Road 70 and Tara Boulevard — a place that holds deep sorrow, but also unshakable purpose. This year’s World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims was not just an event. It was a moment of truth, reflection, and hope — led with open hearts by those who refuse to let tragedy have the final word.
This year marked 20 years since I lost my husband, Mark, at this very intersection to a red-light runner. It’s the same crash that left my brother, Philip, with lifelong injuries. That moment forever changed our family — but it also became the spark that ignited my life’s mission: to turn pain into purpose and save lives in Mark’s honor.
A Day to Remember, Support, and Act
As Ambassador for Target Zero Florida and President of the National Coalition for Safer Roads, I stood alongside a powerful group of advocates, law enforcement, and community members — each bringing their voice to a shared message: We will not tolerate preventable loss on our roads.
This wasn’t just about remembering the past — it was about shaping the future.
With heartfelt remarks from leaders like Sheriff Wells and Corporal Brunner, and support from Keith Robbins, FDOT District 1’s District Safety Administrator, we lifted the lives lost to traffic collisions while recommitting ourselves to creating roads where no more names are added to that list.
Why World Day of Remembrance Matters in Florida
Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for road collisions and fatalities — often caused by distracted driving, speeding, and red-light running. But these are not just statistics. They are people. Families. Futures stolen in an instant.
Through Target Zero Florida, we’re driving a bold vision: zero traffic deaths and serious injuries. It may sound impossible — but I believe with all my heart that when we lead with love, we lead with change. We just need more people willing to speak up, show up, and step forward.
A Community Effort With a Lasting Message
This year’s event was beautifully documented by Charles Clapsaddle and the team at Manatee Educational Television, ensuring the stories we shared continue to be heard by communities across Florida. Because change doesn’t happen in a moment — it happens in the everyday decisions we make behind the wheel, in our neighborhoods, and our policy rooms.
What You Can Do: Because We All Have a Role
I often say that advocacy is not a title — it’s a choice. And the truth is, everyone can be a part of the solution:
Drive with intention
Slow down. Put your phone away. Stop on red. Choose to protect the lives of others as if they were your own.
Support local and statewide safety efforts
Engage with campaigns like Target Zero Florida. Attend events. Talk to your leaders. Your voice matters more than you know. Need help getting started? Check out my tips on how to contact your legislators here.
Share the message
Post. Talk. Teach. Share stories of loss and survival. These are the stories that move hearts — and policies.
Stand with survivors and families
Come to events like World Day of Remembrance. Support those living with the loss, and help us turn grief into momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims?
A. It’s a global day observed every November to remember the lives lost to traffic collisions, honor survivors, and advocate for safer streets. In Florida, it’s supported by partners like FDOT, Target Zero, and community advocates like me.
Q. What is Target Zero Florida?
A. Target Zero is a state-led initiative working to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Florida through education, enforcement, engineering, and emergency response.
Q. How can I help prevent red-light running collisions?
A. Be alert. Follow traffic laws. Support safety technology like red-light cameras. And always speak up for smarter infrastructure and accountability.
Let’s Keep the Light Burning Bright
This year’s World Day of Remembrance wasn’t just about loss — it was about legacy. About how we choose to move forward. I believe with all my soul that every life is worth protecting, and every voice is needed in this mission. Let’s remember those we’ve lost, support those who remain, and act boldly for a future with zero traffic deaths.
Related Stories & Resources
These powerful articles and videos continue the conversation and amplify our shared mission:
Vision Zero Network: Calls for Action Heighten on World Day of Remembrance
Channel 10 WTSP.com: Widow of crash victim advocates for safer roads in Florida
ABC 7 My Sun Coast.com: Community comes together for World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
YourObserver.com: Bradenton memorial service honors those killed in traffic accidents
Bradenton Police Department: Sgt. Rodriquez represented BPD at the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
Manatee County Sheriff’s Office: Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Supports World Day of Remembrance
