Skip to Content
Streetsblog California home
Streetsblog California home
Log In
Safety

The (Too-Brief) History of Traffic Violence Memorials in America

Mass memorials to the victims of traffic violence are a rarity on American roads. But it wasn't always that way — and there's a fascinating history behind why so many lost lives have become virtually invisible in the public realm today.

On this episode of The Brake, Kea Wilson sits down with historian and author Peter Norton to talk about how America used to memorialize car crash deaths in the early days of the automobile, and why automakers invested so much into reshaping the way we grieve. And then they chat about what it might take to bring the national traffic violence epidemic out of the shadows, and why even everyday non-lethal road trauma deserves to be called out.

Listen in below, on Apple podcasts, or anywhere else you listen.

No time to listen — or want to dig a little deeper? Check out our earlier coverage on this topic:

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog California

Wednesday’s Headlines

We're back from break! - BTW, we're not publishing on Friday so Damien can travel.

November 12, 2025

House T&I Chair Vows ‘No Money for Bikes or Walking’ in Fed Transportation Bill

The outlook for active transportation won't be good if advocates don't stand up.

November 11, 2025

Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Anniversary Ride: a Bittersweet Celebration

The mood was festive. But the loss of the lane during the week weighed heavily on advocates.

November 10, 2025

Veteran’s Day Weekend Headlines

Streetsblog CAL will be off the rest of today and tomorrow.

November 10, 2025

Advocates Respond to Mayor Lurie’s District 4 Pick Beya Alcaraz

Mayor's choice to replace Engardio is a newcomer. What will this mean for the future of Sunset Dunes?

November 7, 2025

CalBike Demands Statewide Permanent Fund for E-Bikes

The first step is for the state to admit it's trying to end the program. The second step should be making a better program.

November 7, 2025
See all posts