2009 - A "Safe Year" on Hawaii's Roads

In 2006 there were 161 traffic-related deaths in the State of Hawaii.  In 2007, 138.  In 2008, 107. And most recently, in 2009, 109.

The current trend, nationwide, regarding traffic fatalities is on a downward trend, and although the most recent statistics show a very marginal increase, Hawaii remains far behind its 2006 high of 161 deaths.  Hawaii's Department of Transportation, proposes that this "decline" is mostly due to increased awareness and proactive measures, such as marketing campaigns, and DUI road blocks.

One of the most successful campaigns by the State, and four cooperating county police departments, has been the "Click It or Ticket" program.  Major Thoma Nitta, of the Honolulu Police Department traffic division, was quoted as saying, "Educational and enforcement efforts, legislation, and individual awareness and responsibility are all important and part of HPD's ongoing efforts to remind the public of traffic/pedestrian safety.  Click It or Ticket is the most well-known program. It is a national campaign, headed by the state Department of Transportation, with enforcement provided by the four county police departments. Hawai'i leads the nation in seat belt usage, with O'ahu at 97.7 percent compliance. Seat belts save lives."

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, call Leavitt Yamane & Soldner, for a free consultation, today.

Source:  "Another relatively safe year on Hawaii's Roads." Honolulu Advertiser, January 11, 2009. http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20100111/NEWS01/1110358/Another+relatively+safe+year+on+Hawaii+s+roads