Most people imagine tropical flowers, delectable fruit, grass skirts and oceanic beauty when they think of Hawaii. While one can find these things in abundance on the islands, there are some unpleasant issues throughout the state as well. For example, as in all other states, reckless and careless drivers often cause car accidents in Honolulu and other island areas.
Intersections are some of the most dangerous sections of roadway in Hawaii. Car accidents that occur at crossroads are often fatal. Those who survive may experience catastrophic injuries from the impact of a vehicle hitting them head-on or from the side (T-boned). In this post, you’ll find five helpful tips to improve intersection safety and, perhaps, reduce the chance of a collision.
Car accidents are less likely when drivers are alert and cautious
All drivers should always keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. When approaching an intersection, extreme caution is necessary for safety. If you make these tips a habit, you will improve safety at intersections:
- Always obey traffic lights, yield signs and stop signs. If you have the right-of-way but the other driver isn’t yielding, let him or her go first.
- Scan all directions before proceeding, and never step on the gas if you can’t see past a vehicle in front of you or a nearby object (like a parked car or a tree).
- Never turn without using the proper signal, and make sure another driver is turning in the direction indicated by his or her signal before you proceed.
- Always slow down to approach an intersection, and only accelerate a few miles per hour to navigate a turn.
- Assume that a vehicle, pedestrian, animal or object might obstruct your path and be on the watch for them.
If all drivers would practice these safety habits, there might be a lot fewer car accidents in Hawaii. Even if you’re a defensive driver, however, someone might hit you.
What to do if you’re hit by a car or truck
If you’re involved in a car accident in Hawaii, the top priority is to seek medical attention. Not only does this enable trained professionals to assess your condition, but it also creates written documentation of the incident. Swift and appropriate treatment and medical support may help expedite recovery.
Once you have had a chance to rest and receive proper medical care, you might want to explore options for seeking restitution. Many recovering victims choose to file injury claims in civil court. This is often the case when another driver’s negligence was the primary cause of a car accident.