Walking on foot in crowded cities like Honolulu is frequently more convenient and less stressful than driving a car. But while driving in busy city traffic can be a hassle, pedestrians face dangers when walking around Honolulu, including the possibility of being hit by a careless driver.
Every pedestrian accident in Honolulu is a concerning reality, sometimes leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. When such incidents occur, it’s crucial to understand the role of Honolulu police in investigating these accidents and determining if they constitute negligence. This is essential for victims or their families considering personal injury claims, aiming for financial recovery to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other related costs.
Seeking assistance from Recover Law Center, a pedestrian accident attorney in Honolulu, can greatly assist in the legal process and ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Recent Pedestrian Accident Cases
The Honolulu Police Department Traffic Division consistently documents incidents involving motor vehicle collisions, including those affecting pedestrians. Among the notable incidents recorded:
- A critical hit-and-run collision took place involving two pedestrians on Farrington Highway in the Mokuleia area. This incident highlights pedestrians’ risks and the unfortunate reality of hit-and-run accidents.
- Another significant event involved a pedestrian in a critical hit-and-run motor vehicle collision on Waiakamilo Road in the Kalihi Area.
These incidents highlight the need for both drivers and pedestrians to be vigilant and aware of safety while sharing the roads. They remind us of our collective responsibility to follow traffic laws and ensure the safety of all road users.
Is Walking Safe in Honolulu?
Generally speaking, you’re less likely to get in a serious accident while walking in Honolulu than driving. However, if you’re one of the unlucky pedestrians who gets hit by a car, you’re likely to suffer major injuries. According to the most recent traffic fatality data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Hawaii has the sixth-highest pedestrian fatality rate in the United States.
The Honolulu Emergency Medical Services & Injury Prevention System Branch also offers resources on pedestrian and bicycle safety, including data on fatal and non-fatal injuries related to pedestrians and bicyclists. These resources aim to decrease pedestrian and bicycle-related injuries and fatalities by supporting “complete streets” policies, and promoting safer streets for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders.
Is it Easy to Get Around Honolulu Without a Car?
Getting around Honolulu without a car can be quite manageable, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some options available:
- Public Transportation: TheBus is Honolulu’s public bus service. It offers extensive routes covering much of the Oahu island, including key tourist spots, shopping areas, and beaches. It’s an affordable way to get around, and you can find route maps and schedules online or through its mobile app.
- Biking: Honolulu has been improving its bike-friendliness with more bike lanes and bike-sharing options like Biki. Biki stations are located throughout Honolulu, especially in tourist areas, making them convenient for short trips.
- Walking: Many of Honolulu’s attractions, especially in Waikiki, are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the area, especially given the excellent weather.
- Ridesharing and Taxis: Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are widely available in Honolulu. They can be a convenient, though more costly, option for getting around, especially if traveling to areas not well-served by public transit or late at night.
- Shuttle Services: Some hotels and attractions offer shuttle services, which allow guests to conveniently reach specific destinations without worrying about transportation.
Most Common Dangers to Pedestrians in Honolulu
A few of the most common dangers to pedestrians walking around Honolulu are:
- Distracted drivers: A driver who’s texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise inattentive might not see a pedestrian crossing the street in front of them. Even if they see the pedestrian, they may not have enough time to stop.
- Impaired drivers: Motorists under the influence of alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription drugs, or over-the-counter (OTC) medications are much more likely to strike a pedestrian. This may happen if the impaired driver doesn’t see the pedestrian or the driver drifts onto the sidewalk.
- Speeding drivers: The faster a car moves, the longer it takes to stop. Speeding also increases the force of impact in a collision. Getting hit by a speeding vehicle can cause life-threatening harm to someone on foot.
- Intoxicated pedestrians: Impaired walking also puts pedestrian lives at risk. An impaired pedestrian might stumble into the street in front of a moving car or try to cross the street when it’s not safe.
Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right of Way?
Pedestrians should only cross the street at crosswalks or marked traffic intersections. They should also wait until they see the signal to proceed. That said, drivers also must watch for pedestrians and can be held liable for an accident even if a pedestrian is jaywalking.
The responsibility for pedestrian safety is shared. While drivers must exercise due care to avoid collisions, pedestrians can also be liable for accidents if they fail to adhere to traffic laws or engage in reckless behaviors, such as jaywalking or crossing against signals.
Hawaii’s laws aim to foster a safer environment for both pedestrians and drivers by enforcing regulations that protect vulnerable road users and by promoting awareness of the dangers associated with pedestrian traffic
Talk to a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Honolulu Today
While often enjoyable and eco-friendly, traveling by foot in Honolulu carries its own set of risks, especially when it comes to pedestrian accidents. Navigating the bustling streets, like Kapiolani Boulevard or the quieter lanes around Ahuimanu Road, requires pedestrians and drivers to be constantly alert. Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen, influenced by various factors, including speed, alcohol consumption by the motorist, and the complexity of intersections.
When an accident occurs, officials must launch a thorough investigation. Police play a key role in this process, examining the scene for evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the cause. These investigations often consider whether the driver was speeding or under the influence of alcohol, whether the pedestrian was in a marked crosswalk, and how the intersection design may have contributed to the incident.
In situations where a pedestrian is injured or, in the worst-case scenario, killed, the need for legal guidance becomes paramount. This is where Recover Law Center steps in. Our team specializes in pedestrian accident cases in Honolulu, leveraging ongoing investigations and working closely with country officials to build a strong case for our clients.
Whether you’ve been involved in an accident on Kapiolani Boulevard, near an intersection, or any other location in Honolulu, we’re here to help. Our investigation will consider all factors, including speed, alcohol, and the specific details of the scene, to ensure your rights are protected.
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in Honolulu, seeking legal guidance is essential. Recover Law Center specializes in supporting victims through these challenging times. Schedule a consultation with Recover Law Center to discuss your case and explore your options for justice and compensation.
