There’s so much to see and do in Hawaii. You may want to hike Diamond Head, spend time on the beach and check out the museums and cultural opportunities throughout Honolulu. Do it! But keep in mind there are also dangerous activities that you should avoid during your visit.
At Recovery Law Center, we want every visitor to our beautiful state to have a safe and wonderful experience. Attorney Glenn Honda has compiled the following list of things not to do in Hawaii to make your time here a safe one.
Things You Should NOT Do In Hawaii
Ride a Moped Without a Helmet
Mopeds are a very convenient way to get around Hawaii and there’s no shortage of rental spots. Hawaii law doesn’t require adults to wear a helmet, but they are shown to reduce the risk of a severe head injury by at least 45 percent, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Protect yourself by wearing a helmet before you ride.
Take Your Eyes off the Road
Hawaii is home to unique and beautiful sights. For example, 12,000 humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii every year between January and March. While this is truly an awesome sight, take a tour if you want to see the whales breaching. Don’t crane your neck as you’re driving by the ocean to see if it’s happening.
Drive While Intoxicated
Many people consume more alcohol than they normally would when they’re on vacation. The hot Hawaiian sun can also make the effects of alcohol more potent. Make sure to establish a designated driver, call a taxi, or use a rideshare service like Uber to get safely to your destination if you’re planning to be drinking in Honolulu.
Talk or Text While Driving
Texting or the use of any handheld wireless device is banned in Hawaii, regardless of age.
Walk While Distracted
Hawaii is a great place to explore on foot. Pedestrian laws are in place to protect you, but you still have a responsibility to walk safely. In 2017, Hawaii became the first state in the nation to ban texting or looking at your phone while crossing a street, even in a marked crosswalk. Be aware of your surroundings, stay off your cell phone, and obey all traffic signs and signals.
Forget the Car Seat or Booster Seat
Hawaii is a great place for a family vacation. But you’ll need to be prepared with a child safety seat or booster seat if you’re renting a car. Children under 4 need to be in a car seat, and those under 7 are required to use a booster.
Fail to Read Waivers
Scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming with sharks are all fun activities in Hawaii. Before doing them, you’ll likely have to sign a waiver. Too many people simply sign these quickly in a rush to get to all the fun. Don’t make this mistake. Fully read the waiver and understand what rights you’re giving up before you sign.
Ignore Danger Signs
Warning signs in Hawaii indicate real dangers. Rockfalls, volcanoes, blowholes, and rip currents are only a few of the natural hazards. Traffic signs indicate parts of roadways that should be driven with special caution. Heed the warnings. Many accidents are the result of disregarding rules meant to keep you safe.
Trespass
There is plenty to lawfully see in Hawaii. If you see an area with “No Trespassing” signs, avoid it. Ignoring these signs could make you liable for any injuries occur while you are on private property.
Swim Alone
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in Hawaii. There’s no reason to avoid the water, but it’s important to swim with a buddy and only in permissible areas. If someone is injured or killed while swimming, it’s possible that a landowner or state/city government could be held liable if the unsafe area was not clearly marked.
Call Our Honolulu Personal Injury Attorney If You’ve Been Hurt
Accidents happen, even when you take every safety precaution. If you were injured due to someone else’s recklessness on Oahu, turn to the Recovery Law Center for help. You may be able to pursue compensation to help pay for your injuries, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Contact trusted Honolulu personal injury attorney Glenn Honda for a free consultation today.
