Mopeds and scooters are popular ways to get around Honolulu. However, they are not necessarily the safest modes of transportation, especially in some of the city’s busiest areas.
Mopeds and scooters share many similar dangers. Both are small and lightweight, which make them less visible to other drivers. They also do not give riders much protection from the road. If a crash occurs, there’s a good chance that the operator of the moped or scooter will suffer more serious injuries.
In addition, Hawaii law does not require people on mopeds or scooters to wear helmets. Traumatic brain injuries can occur even in accidents at very low speeds, putting riders without helmets at a high risk of life-threatening injuries.
Anyone hurt in a Honolulu moped or scooter accident could have rights to compensation if their injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence. Call or contact the Recovery Law Center today to find out if you have a case.
Most Dangerous Intersections In Honolulu
Even the most responsible moped riders are not safe from harm in certain parts of Honolulu. A Hawaii Department of Transportation study tracked the number of car accidents that occurred at Honolulu intersections over a three-year period. Although the data did not break down how many accidents involved mopeds, it does highlight areas where riders should be especially careful.
The DOT data identified Oahu’s worst intersections as:
- Beretania Street and Ward Avenue
- Piikoi Street and Kinau Street
- Beretania Street and Piikoi Street
- Moanalua Road and Hoolaulea Street
- King Street and Isenberg Street
- Kapiolani Boulevard and Keeaumoku Street
- Waialae Avenue and 16th Avenue
- School Street, Iolani Avenue and Queen Emma Street, Lusitana Street
In addition, The Cheat Sheet named the 1450 block of Ala Moana Boulevard the most dangerous intersection in the nation, sadly beating out streets in New York City and Los Angeles for the top spot.
How to Stay Safe on Scooters and Mopeds
Some accidents are unavoidable. But you can take steps to lessen your risk of injury on Oahu roadways. You should:
- Wear protective gear such as helmets, jackets, gloves and closed-toed shoes.
- Follow all traffic laws.
- Don’t speed beyond your vehicle’s capacity.
- Check your blind spots. Remember that you can be in other drivers’ blind spots, too.
- Be mindful of your surroundings. Many Hawaii roads are narrow, have small shoulders, uneven pavement and blind curves.
Tourists can find moped rental companies throughout the city. But if you’re unfamiliar with operating a moped or scooter, zipping through Honolulu may not be the safest introduction to driving them. Consider a taxi, riding the bus, renting a car, using the Waikiki Trolley or walking as alternatives to mopeds.
Your Legal Rights After A Moped Accident
After an accident, it can be difficult to figure out exactly what went wrong. Law enforcement officers will hear different accounts of the story and then try to determine who’s right. Their decision may or may not be to your advantage.
If you’ve been injured in a Honolulu moped accident or scooter crash, the Recovery Law Center can investigate your claim to find out what really happened. Then we can collect the evidence necessary to show why you deserve compensation for your losses.
You can learn your legal options in a free consultation with Attorney Glenn Honda. Call or contact us today to schedule yours.
