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Caltrans Workers Memorial and Worker Safety

Since 1921, 195 Caltrans employees have been killed on the job. One of the biggest hazards faced by highway workers are inattentive and distracted motorists.

Each April, Caltrans honors its fallen employees at the statewide Workers' Memorial. Family members, co-workers, friends, and the public are invited to attend the memorial, which will take place on April 23, 2026.

Watch the Caltrans Workers Memorial 2025.

The Workers Memorial is a time to remember those who lost their lives building, maintaining, and operating California’s world-class transportation system.

This observance also highlights safety awareness.


2026 Caltrans Statewide and District Workers' Memorial Ceremonies

Dates, and times to be announced

2026 Caltrans Safety Poster Contest

This poster contest is open to all children and family members of Caltrans employees.

Poster Contest

2026 Caltrans Fallen Workers' Memorial Scholarship

The Caltrans Fallen Workers' Memorial Scholarships are awarded to children of Fallen Caltrans Workers to help selected students meet their post-high school educational goals. 
Scholarship

Past Memorials

Worker Safety

Caltrans is committed to providing safe and efficient work zones, both for the traveling public and employees working on the state highway system. The Mission, Vision, and Goals, for the Department place safety highest among its commitments.

"Every day, thousands of highway workers put their lives in danger just by going to work and serving the public... Californians can help keep our highways safe by slowing down in the ‘work zone’ and complying with the Move Over law."

Malcolm Dougherty, Former Caltrans Director

The Department's safety goal is to achieve the best safety record in the nation. Help us accomplish this goal by learning more about Worker and Work Zone safety below.

California Move Over Law

California's Move Over Law: “Slow or Move Over for Workers, It’s the Law.” When you see amber flashing lights, move over to protect highway workers.

Be Alert, Our Dad's at Work

Be Work Zone Alert: The children of Caltrans highway workers remind drivers to "stay alert, our parents are at work" and keep our workers safe.

Slow for the Cone Zone

Slow for the Cone Zone: Tips to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.