Best Car Accident Lawyers in Honolulu

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Honolulu, Hawaii?

  (808)529-3111 is the non-emergency contact number of the Honolulu Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Honolulu, Hawaii?

  Police reports are acquired through in-person walk-in transactions at the Honolulu Police Department or by contacting its Records Division.

• Can you sue for damages in Honolulu following a car accident?

  Generally, no, since Honolulu is in a no-fault state that requires drivers to pursue damages for their injuries from their insurance companies. An exception to this rule is if the accident caused serious or catastrophic injuries that exceed the insurance coverage limit, by which the victim can file a personal injury suit against the negligent driver for legal compensation. It is advised to consult with a lawyer to determine if a lawsuit is a viable option.

• In Honolulu, can you recover damages following a car accident from other drivers even if you are found partially at fault?

  Yes, you can recover damages from other drivers in Honolulu, provided it can be proven that your fault is not more than the other driver's fault. The victim must not be found to be 51% at fault for the incident to recover damages from the other parties involved. The victim's fault modifies the amount of damages they can recover, reducing their legal compensation by a percentage equal to their determined fault.

• Can you settle your car accident case in Honolulu without an attorney?

  Yes, you can settle your car accident case in Honolulu without an attorney by personally contacting your and the other driver's insurance company for financial compensation for your injuries. However, an attorney can assist in this process by negotiating with insurance adjusters for increased compensation and with other drivers for damages concerning serious injuries.

• What is the most common cause of car accidents in Honolulu?

  Impaired or drunk driving is one of the leading causes of minor and major car accidents throughout Honolulu, with the city reporting 5,378 citations and 553 arrests in 2021. This number is proportionally high compared to other major metros, such as the 264 arrests and 150 citations reported in Maui. This is followed by distracted driving, in which Honolulu recorded 1,051 citations.

• Who can be held liable for wrongful death caused by car accidents in Honolulu?

  Commonly in Honolulu, negligent parties such as drunk or distracted drivers are held liable for wrongful deaths caused by car accidents they are directly involved with. Legal representation can also ascribe liability to parties indirectly responsible for the car accident, such as bars or restaurants that overserved the negligent driver, as well as vehicle manufacturing companies that sold defective cars or trucks.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.