What to Do After a Car Accident in Hawaii

A car accident can happen to anyone, even the safest driver. In a stressful moment, it can be difficult to think clearly and know what to do next.

Whether you’re involved in a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, taking the right steps can help protect your safety, comply with Hawaii law, and make the insurance claims process smoother.

1. Put Safety First

If your vehicle can be moved safely, pull off the road and out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and check yourself and your passengers for injuries.

If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even injuries that seem minor can become more serious over time.

Do not leave the scene of an accident. Leaving before exchanging information or speaking with law enforcement when required could result in serious legal consequences.

2. Contact Police When Required

Under Hawaii law, accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage should be reported to police. When in doubt, call. Damage can be difficult to assess at the scene, and some injuries do not become apparent until later.

If law enforcement responds, request the officer’s name and report number for your records.

3. Exchange Information

Obtain the following information from all drivers involved:

• Full name and contact information
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company and policy number
• License plate number
• Vehicle make and model

If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information as well.

4. Document the Scene

Your smartphone can be one of the most valuable tools after an accident.

If it is safe to do so, take photos or video of:

• Vehicle damage
• License plates
• The accident scene
• Road and weather conditions
• Traffic signs or signals
• Any visible injuries

The more documentation you gather, the easier it may be to establish what happened.

5. Be Careful What You Say

Remain calm and courteous, but avoid discussing fault at the scene.

Do not apologize, speculate about what happened, or make statements such as “I didn’t see you” or “This was my fault.”

Instead, focus on everyone’s safety and let the police, insurance companies, and other professionals determine responsibility.

6. Contact Your Insurance Company Promptly

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if you believe the other driver was at fault.

Provide the facts, share any photos or witness information you collected, and cooperate with any requests for additional documentation.

Prompt reporting can help prevent delays in the claims process.

Understanding Hawaii’s No-Fault Insurance System

Hawaii is a no-fault insurance state. This means that after a car accident, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage generally pays for your medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. Hawaii auto policies include at least $10,000 in PIP coverage.

Property damage works differently. The driver who caused the accident is generally responsible for damage to other vehicles and property.

If you are injured, your insurance company may ask you to complete forms related to your PIP claim.

Watch Out for Predatory Towing

If your vehicle is disabled, be cautious about accepting assistance from a tow truck you did not call.

Some operators arrive at accident scenes before drivers have had time to contact law enforcement, roadside assistance, or their insurer. Before authorizing a tow, ask for pricing information, understand where your vehicle will be taken, and ensure you’re comfortable with the arrangement.

The Bottom Line

A car accident is stressful, but knowing what to do beforehand can help you stay calm and make informed decisions.

Remember to prioritize safety, document the scene, exchange information, report the accident promptly, and contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

Looking for auto insurance in Hawaii? Learn more about First Insurance auto coverage or request an online quote today.