Hawai‘i Motor Vehicle Crash Lawyer

Accidents happen, even here in the Aloha State, and when they involve motor vehicles, the aftermath can be overwhelming.

If you’re in a vehicle crash in Hawai‘i, it’s crucial to know your rights and how to get help. The best way to do that is to partner with a Hawai‘i motor vehicle crash lawyer, who can explain your rights and help you seek justice and fair compensation for your damages and suffering.

Car Accidents in Hawai‘i

As of December 4, 2023, the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) has reported 55 fatal car accidents for the year so far in their city alone. Distracted driving was the leading cause, accounting for 20.5% of those deaths.

Most of the residents of Hawai‘i agree that speeding and aggressive driving are the biggest safety concerns on our roads.

Even car crash victims who survive are often severely injured. Damage like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries may result in serious and life-long challenges like ongoing medical expenses, inability to work, permanent disabilities, or lasting impairments.

Even in cases where a complete medical recovery is likely, the healing process could easily require months off work and losing the ability to carry out regular tasks or engage in daily activities.

A motor vehicle crash can be a confusing and stressful experience. Whether it’s a fender-bender or a more serious collision, it’s important to prioritize your safety and well-being first. Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, you might wonder about the legal aspects of the situation.

Thankfully, Hawai‘ian law enables victims of car accidents to seek compensation for the losses they endure.

What to do After a Motor Vehicle Crash

Now that we understand the importance of legal assistance, let’s discuss the steps to take immediately after a motor vehicle crash in Hawai‘i.

Ensure Safety

• Check for injuries and call for medical help if needed.
• Move to a safe location if possible.
• Turn on hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares.

Contact the Authorities

• In Hawai‘i, it’s important to report all motor vehicle crashes to law enforcement. Call 911 to notify the police and wait for them to arrive.

Exchange Information

• Collect information from all parties involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details.
• If there are witnesses, obtain their contact information. Their statements may be valuable later.

Document the Scene

• Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
• Note the weather conditions, road signs, and traffic signals.

Don’t Admit Fault

• Avoid discussing fault at the scene. Leave the determination to the professionals and your lawyer. You don’t want to say anything that may be used, out of context, against you later.

Seek Medical Attention

• Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

After the Accident

• Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
• Reach out to a Hawai‘i motor vehicle crash lawyer to discuss your case. At Wayne Parsons Law Office, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case.

The Importance of Legal Assistance

When facing the aftermath of a motor vehicle crash, seeking legal assistance can be crucial for several reasons. A skilled Hawai‘i motor vehicle crash lawyer can help you:

• Understand Your Rights: Knowing your rights after a crash is essential. A lawyer can explain what you are entitled to and guide you through the legal jargon, making it easier to comprehend.
• Navigate Insurance Claims: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. A lawyer can help you understand your policy, negotiate with insurers, and ensure you receive fair compensation for damages.
• Gather Evidence: Building a strong case requires evidence. A motor vehicle crash lawyer knows what evidence is essential and can assist in collecting and preserving it for your claim.
• Handle Legal Procedures: Legal procedures can be overwhelming for someone unfamiliar with the law. A lawyer will guide you through the necessary steps, ensuring that all paperwork is completed accurately and on time.

Hawai‘i Strategic Highway Safety Plan

In response to the rise in vehicular accidents, the Department of Transportation launched the Hawai‘i  Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) in 2019, and states:

“The Hawai‘i SHSP is a five-year plan to address the most pressing issues relating to traffic safety in our Aloha State. It is the result of multidisciplinary collaboration between many partners within federal, state, county, and community organizations. It is a data-driven and comprehensive plan that identifies and analyzes highway safety needs and provides vetted strategies to improve safety on all of Hawai‘i’s public roads.”

As listed on the SHSP website, some of those strategies include:

• Combating Impaired Driving
• Enhancing First Responder Capabilities
• Ensuring Motorcycle, Motor Scooter, and Moped Safety
• Improving Data and Safety Management Systems
• Protecting Vehicle Occupants
• Putting the Brakes on Speeding
• Safeguarding Pedestrians and Bicyclists

The plan also focuses on increasing the safety of roadway infrastructure.

Being involved in a motor vehicle crash can be challenging, but knowing the right steps to take and seeking legal assistance can make a huge difference in the long-term effects.

Remember to prioritize your safety, document the scene, and consult with a Hawai‘i motor vehicle crash lawyer to protect your rights.

By following these simple guidelines and seeking help from a legal professional, you can navigate the aftermath of a motor vehicle crash more confidently.

At Wayne Parsons Law Office, our motor vehicle crash attorneys will be your ally in navigating the complexities of the legal system. These experienced legal professionals specialize in helping people (like you) who have been involved in car accidents, by providing expert guidance on legal processes, advocating for your rights, and fighting to ensure you receive fair compensation.

If you or a loved one find yourself in such a situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support – your well-being and legal rights matter.

Mahalo, and stay safe on the roads of Hawai‘i!