Auto Accidents

Car Accident Lawyer in Honolulu, Hawaii

You don't need to deal with the complexities of a car accident case alone. Rely on our experience and let us work to get you the compensation you deserve.
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Car Accidents in Hawaii: What the Data Shows

According to the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT), Hawaii’s roads claimed 93 lives in 2023 — a 20% decline from 116 deaths in 2022, but still dozens of families changed forever by preventable crashes. HDOT’s most recently completed annual report recorded over 450 serious injuries in a single year statewide, with hundreds more leaving crash survivors facing surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term disability.

On Oahu — home to Honolulu — the leading causes of serious car accidents mirror statewide HDOT findings:

  • Speeding — the primary contributing factor in approximately 1 in 4 fatal crashes statewide (HDOT 2024 year-end report: 24 of 102 deaths); nearly 1 in 4 Hawaii residents admits to exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 mph
  • Distracted driving — 56% of Hawaii car and SUV drivers admitted to using a mobile phone while driving at least once in the past six months (HDOT Statewide Attitudinal & Behavior Survey, 2024)
  • Impaired driving — suspected impairment was cited in 11 of 102 fatal crashes in 2024 (HDOT); in 2023, motorcycle-related DUIs increased even as overall fatalities declined
  • Failure to yield — a consistent factor in pedestrian and intersection crashes; 23 pedestrians were killed statewide in 2023 alone

Sources: HDOT 2023 Traffic Fatality Update · HDOT Traffic Fatalities Up 10% from 2023 · HDOT Safe Communities Program

How to Prove a Car Accident Claim in Hawaii

To recover compensation after a car accident in Hawaii, your attorney must prove that another party was negligent. Under Hawaii law, negligence requires establishing four elements:

  • Duty: The at-fault driver had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely and follow Hawaii traffic laws.
  • Breach: The driver violated that duty through reckless, careless, or illegal behavior (speeding, distracted driving, DUI, failure to yield, etc.)
  • Causation: That breach directly caused your accident and resulting injuries.
  • Damages: You suffered real, documentable losses as a result — medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering.

Proving all four elements is what separates a recoverable claim from one that isn’t. Attorney Glenn Honda and the Recovery Law Center team have spent 30+ years building and presenting these cases for Hawaii injury victims.

Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer in Honolulu, Hawaii

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Hawaii, turn to attorney Glenn Honda and the legal team at the Recovery Law Center for help. We know that seeking legal assistance can be scary, especially if you’ve never needed to hire a lawyer before. We make it easy for our clients. Our friendly, compassionate, and knowledgeable Hawaii personal injury lawyers at Recovery Law Center are here to put you at ease while helping you understand your rights and seek the justice you deserve.

Hawaii is a no-fault car insurance state. This means that most of the time, you will need to first file a claim with your own insurance company for payment of your medical bills, regardless of how the accident happened. If the accident causes serious injuries where your medical bills exceed $5,000, or the accident causes you to suffer permanent disfigurement or disability, you may be able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.

With the help of a Honolulu car accident attorney who has deep experience with Hawaii’s state-specific laws, you can pursue the best way to seek the compensation you need following a serious injury accident. We are here to hold the responsible party legally accountable for the harm that they have caused you.

Attorney Glenn Honda and the dedicated team of car accident lawyers in Honolulu at the Recovery Law Center has over 30 years of experience working with car crash victims in Hawaii. Our Honolulu car accident attorney will make sure that our clients’ voices are heard and that they are supported throughout the legal process.

We appreciate the financial strain that serious injuries put on families, which is why we fight for the maximum amount of compensation that our clients deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you won’t have to pay us anything unless and until we recover money for you.

Contact us to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today to find out more about your best legal options.

Visit our car accident lawyer in Honolulu, HI

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Personal Injury Case Results
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Premises Liability
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After I had a particularly painful crash while riding my bike in Hawaii, resulting in a visit to the ER, I reached out to Glenn to work on my case. Glenn was thorough and worked diligently to get me a fair settlement. Highly recommended! - Mike Zagorski (Masters World Champion/4x US National Champion Cyclist)
Mike Zagorski
Excellent service provided by Mr. Honda and his paralegal team—Jolie, George & Jennifer!! I highly recommend this firm to anyone seeking help from a law firm.
Raelene Balidoy
These guys got me taken care and got some coin in my pocket while settling all the legal things for me. Thanks guys!
Remberto Barrientos
I got great service! (I was a 2 time client)
Lynne Ewart
Mr. Honda's good reputation precedes him. From the moment I contacted his practice I knew I was in good hands. George and Jolie were friendly, easy to talk to, and genuine. They made me feel comfortable, heard, and supported. The Recovery Law Center team helped me every step of the way. They listened to me, answered my questions, and dealt with the disparaging treatment so I didn't have to. Mr. Honda kept me informed about my options, shared his recommendations then let me decide how to proceed. Knowing they had my back and were fighting for me, gave me the chance to focus on my personal recovery. I don't know what I would have done without their help and support. Thank you Glenn Honda and The Recovery Law Center team!!!! I highly recommend them and would definitely seek out their help again if ever I needed it.
Shaun Nathaniel
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How a Lawyer from Recovery Law Center Can Help After a Car Accident

Through our unparalleled service, compassion, and results, we aim to prove to our clients that they made the right decision in choosing us. If you have been hurt in a car accident in Hawaii, the following sets us apart from the rest:

Service

At Recovery Law Center, we understand that the people who get in touch with us are doing so because they are going through a hard time. A car accident is a traumatic event, and it is probably your single biggest concern at this time. We take pride in being approachable and accessible to our community. Through the various legal services that we offer, we strive to provide relief and support to our clients.

Ambition

Every year that we are fortunate enough to work for injury accident survivors, we improve. We meet each new case with curiosity and diligence because we know that there is always room to improve our service to our clients.

Experience

Our firm has been representing clients for more than two decades. This experience has allowed us to hone our skills in the courtroom, at the negotiating table, and with clients. Providing excellent customer service and effective legal strategies are important anchors to our success.

Results

We evaluate each client’s unique situation, including pain and suffering, financial loss, and other damages. By getting a comprehensive picture of what victims have endured, we are better equipped to fight for compensation on their behalf. We remain focused on results because, when all is said and done, the compensation won is what helps victims cope with their situation and move forward.

Compensation For an
Accident Claim in Hawaii

In the aftermath of a collision, accident-related expenses can quickly pile up. If you are dealing with financial stress following an accident, a lawyer can help you seek compensation for the losses that you have experienced, whether you need to file a claim with your own insurance or pursue a third-party claim.

When evaluating what you are able to recover, our lawyer can assess your losses and pursue the resources that you need. The Recovery Law Center can help clients recover compensation for the following:

  • Medical expenses – Compensation for medical care can cover a range of expenses. Initial or emergency costs, physical therapy, cognitive therapy, consultation costs, medical accessories, and in-home care services can all run the tab up for car accident victims. In addition to all of these expenses, a lawyer may be able to recover compensation for future medical costs.
  • Lost Income – Victims may be unable to return to work either temporarily or indefinitely. When an injury is so severe that it forces you to miss work, your financial compensation should account for the impact it has.
  • Pain and suffering – An experienced lawyer can seek compensation for the pain and emotional distress that car accident victims endure. The amount of compensation varies for each case depending on the nature of the injuries. This compensation is only available if you pursue a third-party claim or lawsuit.
  • Damaged property – If a car or other personal property was damaged in an accident, fair compensation ensures that victims aren’t on the hook for repair or recovery expenses.
  • Loss of consortium – If one spouse has been so severely injured in an accident that it harms the quality of their marriage, the other spouse may be left without the emotional support or companionship that they would otherwise have. This compensation is only available through a third-party claim or lawsuit.

There are two main forms of compensation: economic damages, and non-economic damages. Economic damages are meant to help compensate victims for the quantifiable losses that they have incurred. Non-economic losses compensate victims for damages like pain and suffering.

Punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the at-fault driver’s conduct was intentional or reckless — such as drunk driving or street racing. Unlike compensatory damages, punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior. Hawaii places no cap on punitive damages in personal injury cases.

Time Limit for Filing Car Accident Lawsuit In Hawaii

Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Hawaii

Hawaii Rev. Stat. §431:10C-315 allows injury victims up to two years from the date of the last payment of Personal Injury Protection benefits to file an injury claim. Though this may seem like a long time, it is best to get started on your claim as soon as possible. Delays can cause crucial evidence to disappear, harming your ability to recover compensation.

For car accidents that result in fatal injuries to victims, surviving family members have two years to file a wrongful death claim. According to Hawaii Rev. Code Ann. § 663-3, the two-year clock begins on the date that the injury victim passes away.

Though injury victims must generally file within two years, their case does not need to be resolved within this two-year time frame. Stay in communication with your lawyer to get a clearer understanding of how long your particular case is likely to take.

Dealing with Insurance Companies Following an Accident

Hawaii adheres to a no-fault car insurance system. This means that in most cases, you will file a claim with your own insurance company and seek payment of your medical bills from your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. In these scenarios, it won’t matter who caused the collision.

If your injuries reach $5,000, or more, in medical coverage or your injuries result in permanent disability or disfigurement, you could be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the party who was at fault.

An insurance adjuster may contact you to get your statement on the chain of events that led up to the accident. Do not provide any recorded statements, and instead politely ask them to speak with your attorney.

Keep in mind that the insurance adjuster may seem friendly and willing to help, but their ultimate goal is to save the insurance company money. They may pressure you into giving a statement and may try to get you to admit fault or otherwise diminish your insurance claim.

Don’t let the insurance company’s tricks cost you the compensation you are owed. Contact our experienced car accident lawyer and let us handle communication with the insurer. 

Common Car Accident Injuries

Even accidents that happen at relatively low speeds can cause serious injuries to the drivers and passengers involved. Though safety standards of vehicles are constantly being improved, built-in protections can only do so much to protect occupants.

The following are injuries commonly caused by car accidents:

If you’ve been involved in a collision, seeking the medical help that you need as soon as you can is important for your recovery. A lawyer can play a critical role in helping you access the medical attention that you need.

Top Car Accident FAQs

How does Hawaii’s no-fault insurance system work for car accidents?
Hawaii is a no-fault car insurance state, which means that after a car accident, you must first file a claim with your own insurance company for payment of your medical bills, regardless of who caused the accident. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services up to your policy limits (minimum $10,000 per person). However, you can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver if your medical bills exceed $5,000 or if the accident causes permanent disfigurement or disability. It's important to note that Hawaii's no-fault system only applies to injuries—property damage claims can still be pursued against the at-fault driver's insurance.
When can I sue the at-fault driver in a Hawaii car accident?
While Hawaii is a no-fault state, you can step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver if your injuries meet certain severity thresholds. You can pursue a lawsuit if: (1) your medical expenses exceed $5,000, (2) the accident causes permanent disfigurement, or (3) the accident results in permanent disability. These thresholds exist to ensure that only serious injury cases proceed to litigation while minor accidents are handled efficiently through the no-fault insurance system.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Honolulu?
At Recovery Law Center, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won't pay us anything unless and until we recover money for you. This arrangement allows injured victims to access quality legal representation without upfront costs or hourly fees. We understand that serious injuries put financial strain on families, so our fee structure ensures that everyone can afford experienced legal representation. You only pay attorney fees if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Hawaii?
After ensuring everyone's safety and calling 911 if needed, you should: (1) exchange insurance and contact information with all parties involved, (2) document the scene with photos of vehicles, injuries, and road conditions, (3) obtain contact information from witnesses, (4) notify your insurance company about the accident, (5) seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and (6) contact an experienced car accident attorney to protect your rights. Avoid admitting fault or making statements about the accident to other insurance companies without legal guidance.
How long does it take to resolve a car accident case in Hawaii?
The timeline for resolving a car accident case varies significantly depending on several factors: the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the case, whether fault is disputed, the insurance companies involved, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Simple cases with minor injuries might resolve in a few months, while complex cases involving serious injuries or disputed liability could take a year or more. Our team at Recovery Law Center will work diligently to resolve your case as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive maximum compensation.
Why should I choose Recovery Law Center for my car accident case?
Attorney Glenn Honda and the dedicated team at Recovery Law Center have over 30 years of experience working with car crash victims in Hawaii. We have deep knowledge of Hawaii's state-specific laws and insurance requirements, which is crucial for navigating the no-fault system effectively. We are committed to making sure our clients' voices are heard and that they receive the support they need throughout the legal process. Our track record of fighting for maximum compensation, combined with our contingency fee structure and compassionate approach, makes us the right choice for your car accident case in Honolulu.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. However, insurance claims should be filed much sooner—most insurance policies require notification within days or weeks of the accident. For PIP benefits through your own insurance, you should file as soon as possible after the accident. Missing these deadlines could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation, so it's crucial to contact an experienced Honolulu car accident attorney promptly after your accident.
What compensation can I recover in a Hawaii car accident case?
If your injuries meet the threshold to step outside Hawaii's no-fault system, you may be able to recover various types of compensation including: medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent disability or disfigurement, property damage, and other out-of-pocket expenses related to your accident. The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the insurance coverage available. An experienced attorney can help maximize your recovery.

Steps to Take Following a Car Crash in Hawaii

Since collisions happen in the blink of an eye, the moments immediately following are often a blur for victims. The following steps could help you protect yourself and your rights if you are involved in a collision:

Report the crash

Call the police. An officer will visit the site of the crash and make a police report. This report could provide important information for your lawyer if you choose to take legal action.

Get medical attention

Seek treatment for your injuries as soon as you can. Prompt medical treatment will set you up for optimal recovery. Even if you don’t feel hurt, this is a vital step, as some serious injuries involve delayed symptoms. Keep any medical receipts or statements that you receive.

Take down witness information

If anyone nearby witnessed the collision, collect their contact information if possible. Your lawyer will be able to follow up with these witnesses to get their statements.

Document the scene

If your physical condition allows you to remain at the scene of the accident, document it as thoroughly as you can. It’s a good idea to take pictures from numerous angles and distances and write down as many details about the crash as you can before you forget them. Ask someone on scene to take pictures if you are unable.

Contact a lawyer

A skilled lawyer will be able to determine whether a lawsuit is an option in your case. Reach out to the team at the Recovery Law Center for an initial consultation. Our priority is fighting for the resources that injury victims need to move forward with their lives.

Call Recovery Law Center to Fight for You After a Car Wreck in Hawaii

While nothing can undo the pain and loss that you have already endured, a skilled Honolulu car accident lawyer can help you seek the compensation that you deserve for all your losses. If someone else’s negligence has caused you harm, reach out to the Recovery Law Center to discuss your case.

We are committed to providing you with the support that you need at this time.

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