Whether you’re a full-time resident of Hawaii or among tens of thousands of tourists who visit the islands every year, you likely enjoy being outdoors and taking in the immense beauty of your surroundings. Hawaii is truly one of the most beautiful places on earth. It’s understandable that many residents and visitors leave their car keys behind their motor vehicles behind and, instead, travel to their island destinations on foot or by bicycle. Perhaps you ride a bicycle to work if you live in Hawaii year round.
Maybe you take vigorous walks for exercise several times a week. Being a pedestrian or bicyclist on the islands is not without risk. While many people travel on foot, there is still often a lot of motor vehicle traffic that can place you in harm’s way if a driver is not focused on his or her task at hand.
It is definitely a good idea to be as proactive as you can to avoid injury while walking or riding a bicycle. It’s also good to know what to do if a car hits you and causes you to suffer injury.
Common Reasons Why Pedestrians and Bicyclists Are at Risk of Accidents
Hawaii is a beautiful place, but pedestrians and bicyclists face significant risks. Many factors contribute to these accidents, often resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities.
- Distracted Driving: One major cause of accidents is distracted driving. Many drivers fail to pay attention to the road, often due to mobile devices. When drivers are distracted, they are more likely to hit pedestrians or bicyclists.
- Speeding: Speeding is another critical factor. When motor vehicles travel at high speeds, the chances of a serious accident increase. In Hawaii, speeding vehicles can cause severe injuries to vulnerable road users.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers often neglect to yield at crosswalks and intersections. This mistake puts pedestrians and bicyclists at greater risk, especially when traffic lights are ignored.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs play a significant role in many accidents. Impaired drivers are less able to react quickly, leading to crashes that involve serious injuries or death.
- Poor Infrastructure: Some roads and intersections in Hawaii are not well-designed for safe walking or biking. The lack of bike lanes and sidewalks forces pedestrians and bicyclists to share the roadway with cars, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Tourists and Unfamiliarity: Hawaii attracts many tourists who may be unfamiliar with local traffic laws. This unfamiliarity can lead to dangerous situations, as visitors might not know where to expect pedestrians or cyclists.
- Negligence: Negligent driving behaviors, such as not checking blind spots, can lead to accidents. Bicyclists and pedestrians often suffer when drivers fail to follow basic safety rules.
- Nighttime Visibility: Poor visibility at night is a significant risk factor. Pedestrians and bicyclists are harder to see in the dark, which increases the chances of being hit by a car.
What Are the Types of Pedestrian and Bicyclist Injuries
In Hawaii, pedestrians and bicyclists are often at risk for injuries due to various factors. These accidents typically involve motor vehicles and can result in severe or even fatal injuries. Understanding the types of injuries that can occur helps to highlight the importance of safe driving and adherence to traffic laws.
Common Pedestrian Injuries
When a pedestrian accident happens, it can lead to a range of injuries, from minor to severe. Common injuries include:
- Head Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can occur when pedestrians are hit by a car.
- Spinal Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in long-term disabilities.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Arms, legs, and ribs are often fractured in pedestrian accidents.
- Lacerations and Bruises: These injuries can lead to significant blood loss and require extensive medical care.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs can be life-threatening and require immediate attention.
Common Bicyclist Injuries
Bicycle accidents also result in serious injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Head Injuries: Even with helmets, bicyclists can suffer from concussions and other head trauma.
- Road Rash: Skin abrasions from sliding on pavement can lead to infections and require skin grafts.
- Fractures: Collarbone and wrist fractures are typical in bicycle accidents.
- Chest and Abdominal Injuries: Impact with vehicles can cause serious internal damage.
- Spinal Injuries: Like pedestrians, bicyclists are at risk for spinal cord injuries that can result in paralysis.
What Should You Do After a Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents in Hawaii
Accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists are common in Hawaii, a beautiful place that attracts many tourists and locals alike. If you’re involved in a bicycle or pedestrian accident, here’s what you need to do:
Immediate Actions
- Ensure Safety: If possible, move to a safe area. If you are unable to move, try signaling for help.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for any serious injuries. Call 911 immediately if there are any severe injuries or if someone is unconscious.
- Call the Police: It’s important to report the accident to the police. A police report can be critical for insurance claims and any legal actions.
Gather Information
- Exchange Information: Collect names, contact details, and insurance information from all involved parties, including drivers, pedestrians, and witnesses.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, injuries, and any damage to vehicles or bicycles. This can serve as evidence later.
- Get Witness Statements: If there are any witnesses, get their contact information and ask for their account of what happened.
Medical Attention
- Seek Medical Help: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Keep Records: Document all medical visits, treatments, and expenses. These records will be important if you need to seek compensation.
Legal Steps
- Contact an Attorney: Consult with an attorney who specializes in bicycle and pedestrian accidents. Many attorneys offer a free consultation and can help you understand your rights.
- Report to Insurance: Notify your insurance company about the accident. Provide them with all necessary documentation and information.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep all evidence related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and any communication with insurance companies.
Compensation
If you’ve been injured in an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Bills: Covering the cost of immediate and ongoing medical treatment.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for lost income due to the inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged bicycles or other property.
Preventative Measures
- Follow Traffic Laws: Adhere to all traffic laws, including signals and signs.
- Stay Visible: Use reflective gear and lights when walking or biking, especially at night.
- Pay Attention: Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions like mobile devices.
Ensuring Safety and Securing Justice for Hawaii’s Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Pedestrians and bicyclists in Hawaii face significant risks for injury, often due to negligent motor vehicle drivers. These serious injuries can lead to substantial financial hardships and long recovery times. Understanding Hawaii law is essential for anyone involved in pedestrian accident cases or bicycle accidents.
At Recovery Law Center, our experienced pedestrian and bicycle accident attorneys are committed to helping you navigate these challenges. We strive to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured, schedule a consultation with us. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
