Motorcycles can be a great way to travel around Hawaii. They offer the freedom and scenic views that many people love. But if you want to drive a motorcycle on Hawaii roads, you need to purchase the right insurance. It’s illegal to drive without motorcycle insurance in The Aloha State.
Understanding motorcycle insurance laws is critical to protect yourself and others if an accident occurs. At Recovery Law Center, our injury lawyers have proudly served our community for over 25 years, and we know Hawaii law. Keep reading to learn more.
Can I Ride a Motorcycle Without Insurance in Hawaii?
Motorcycle liability insurance is required in Hawaii. This coverage protects others who are injured in motorcycle accidents caused by you. Drivers must carry proof of insurance with them every time they ride.
How Much Insurance Do I Need?
The state of Hawaii sets a minimum amount of insurance that you’ll need for your motorcycle.
This includes liability insurance covering:
- $20,000 of coverage per person and $40,000 per accident in bodily injury liability
- $10,000 in property damage liability
Keep in mind that these are minimums only. The costs of an accident may be significantly higher. That’s why Recovery Law Center always recommends that our clients purchase as much insurance as they can afford. Otherwise, they could be forced to pay substantial accident-related costs out of pocket.
Consequences of Riding Without Insurance
Under Hawaii law, motorcyclists face serious penalties for driving without insurance. These may include:
- A $500 fine for the first offense and a minimum of a $1500 fine for each subsequent offense within a five-year period
- Community service
- License suspensions ranging from a three-month suspension for the first conviction to a one-year suspension for further violations within a five-year period
- Jail time
- Suspension or revocation of the vehicle registration
- Impoundment or sale of the motorcycle
Common Insurance Mistakes Motorcyclists Make
Insurance is essential. Ensure that you have the coverage you need and don’t fall victim to these common mistakes:
- Being underinsured. Accidents are expensive, so make sure you have enough insurance to cover yourself.
- Modifying the motorcycle and not telling the insurance company. Modifications, especially those related to performance, could increase the cost of your insurance. But if you don’t tell the insurer that you made changes to your bike, they could deny your claim.
- Canceling your insurance but riding anyway. Some people ride their motorcycles infrequently, tempting them to cancel their insurance. That can lead to fines, and if you’re in an accident, it could cost you everything.
Injured? Contact Recovery Law Center
If you’ve been in a Honolulu motorcycle accident, reach out to personal injury attorney Glen Honda and the team at the Recovery Law Center. We take a personalized approach to understanding our clients, and when they need help, we do everything we can to deliver. Because at Recovery Law Center, our clients and our community mean everything.
We have what it takes to make a difference for you. Call us, chat with us live, or fill out a contact form to speak with a Honolulu motorcycle accident lawyer today.
