The state of Hawaii, like all other states in the United States, has its own laws and regulations regarding auto insurance coverage. It is important that drivers understand these laws so that they can avoid the penalties that come with not having the proper coverage. Drivers must also take into consideration the driving statistics and safety issues in the state. Since insurance covers not only auto accidents, but also theft, it helps to understand what coverage is needed.

Driving Statistics in Hawaii

Auto Accidents

The state of Hawaii has one of the highest auto accidents in the United States. According to the Hawaii DMV, the auto accident rates have been steadily increasing over the last ten years. Fatalities from auto accidents have been on a slow increase as well. In 2000, there were 132 deaths. In 2009, there were 163. Since deaths have been increasing, Hawaiian officials have been looking at the causes of this increase. They have found that driving aggression and drug and alcohol influence topped the list of causes.

Road Conditions

Hawaiian officials have been working on state-wide initiatives to improve the quality and safety of their roadways. Studies have shown that the big island roads in Hawaii are some of the most dangerous in the United States. Deaths from vehicle accidents in these areas are two to three times higher than the state averages. Hawaii is working on these roads to improve their structure, visibility, and drivability. In peak tourist season, roads can become even more deadly.

Seatbelt Usage

Along with auto accidents, it is important to understand seatbelt use in the state and how it plays into the auto accident death rates. Buckling up can truly save lives and Hawaii continues to strive for more seatbelt use in the state. The good news is that programs like Click it or Ticket are seeing a huge difference in seatbelt use. Hawaii leads the nation in use. In 2008, 97% of drivers wore seatbelts. The law in Hawaii requires that all passengers in the front seat wear seatbelts and all children under the age of 18 wear belts. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is $92. Those who do not buckle up their children are assessed a $100 fine and required to attend a four hour class. The fine can go up to $500 with subsequent offenses.

Auto Theft

Auto theft in Hawaii has been increasing rather dramatically. In 1992, there were 3, 491 auto thefts. This number climbed to 4,819 in 2009. Recent reports show that these numbers continue to rise in the state. Drivers can improve their odds of not having their vehicle stolen by keeping their doors locked and not having valuables left out in plain sight. Using these simple safety precautions can keep a driver's vehicle safe.

The top Three Stolen Cars in Hawaii

1. The Honda Civic

2. The Honda Accord

3. The Acura Integra

Understanding the Insurance Laws

Hawaii is a no fault state. This means that drivers cannot be sued for motor vehicle accidents, except with extreme injury. The requirements for Hawaii auto insurance coverage are: $20,000 per person, and $40,000 per bodily injury. The driver must also have $10,000 per occurrence of property damage liability. If a driver is found without Hawaii car insurance, they must pay hefty fines. The first offense causes $1,000 in fines and this can go up as high as $3,000 with subsequent offenses. This can also result in the suspension of the license and imprisonment. The penalties are often higher if the driver is involved in a motor vehicle accident and does not have coverage. It is important that drivers follow the laws of the state and have complete coverage to avoid these penalties. As with most states in the United States, the Hawaiian DMV is informed by insurance companies once a lapse in auto insurance has occurred. This prevents most drivers from being on the roads without insurance coverage.

Shopping for Car Insurance

There are many insurance options in the State of Hawaii. Most national insurance companies operate in the state and there are also many local insurance companies that can assist drivers with their insurance needs. Local companies can often provide good information on the Hawaii car insurance ratings as well. Working with local companies can often allow users to get Hawaii cheap car insurance rates. Drivers who need extra assistance should get the help of a good insurance agent.

These insurance companies operate in Hawaii:

AAA

State Farm

Aflac

First Insurance Company

Farmers

Geico

Most of these insurance companies allow for free Hawaii car insurance quotes online so that drivers can compare the different insurance premiums to get the best insurance deal. Drivers should also check the Hawaii auto insurance ratings to be sure that the company is sound and has a good rating.This is a good way to find out how customers feel about the company. Another important aspect of finding an insurance company is to check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure that the company has not had any fraudulent claims against them. Following these few steps can help drivers save money, time, and hassle as they look for Hawaii car insurance quotes.

Average Premiums in Hawaii

Hawaii ranks number 18 in the United States as having the lowest auto insurance premiums. The average of liability premiums is around $816. This number can go up in the case of inexperienced drivers or drivers who have points against their driver's license. Those who have clear driving records and at least five years of driving experience qualify for Hawaii cheap auto insurance rates in the state.

This information should give drivers in Hawaii a good start on understanding the laws and regulations for the state. It is important that drivers fully understand the laws so that they can avoid problems with penalties, fees, and the loss of driving privileges. Drivers can find more information on the Hawaii Insurance Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website. This site gives further information on the insurance laws in Hawaii. This can give drivers valuable information to help them make the best decisions on their insurance.

http://hawaii.gov/dcca/ins