In crowded cities like Honolulu, getting around on foot is frequently a more convenient, less stressful option compared to driving a car. But while driving in busy city traffic can be a hassle, pedestrians also face dangers when walking around Honolulu, including the possibility of being hit by a careless driver.
Is Walking Safe in Honolulu?
Generally speaking, you’re less likely to get in a serious accident while walking in Honolulu than while driving. The problem is that 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 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Hawaii has the sixth-highest pedestrian fatality rate in the United States.
Is it Easy to Get Around Honolulu Without a Car?
Oahu’s bus system serves Honolulu, Waikiki, and other cities, but service is sparser in more rural areas. Pedestrians can use the bus to get around Honolulu if they don’t feel like walking the whole way to their destination. If you want to use a car but don’t want to drive yourself, plenty of taxis are available.
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 was jaywalking.
Talk to a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Honolulu Today
The Honolulu pedestrian accident lawyers at Recovery Law Center provide top-notch representation to those who’ve been injured on Oahu. Whether you are a resident of or a visitor to our island, we’ll be ready to fight for the fair compensation you deserve if someone else’s negligence harmed you. There’s nothing to lose and everything to gain by contacting us for a free initial consultation. Let’s get started now.
