The Guide to Traffic and Parking Violations in Hawaii

Drive safe and obey the law

Just as with any other place in the United States, the best way to avoid any tickets or even getting pulled over in Hawaii is to drive safely and obey all the local traffic and parking laws. Driving happens at a much slower and more friendly pace in Hawaii, so, driving aggressively is a great way to stand out to the police and get pulled over.

Parking is a little different in Hawaii. For the most part it is pretty self-explanatory. However, there are such things as “residential parking zones” where only designated residents can park their cars.

Hawaii traffic violations and costs

If you get caught speeding or running a red light in Hawaii, the fines and penalties are just as hefty and serious as anywhere else in the United States.

• Speeding – If you are caught speeding more than ten miles per hour (but less than thirty) over the speed limit and are a first-time offender, you will get a fine up to $200 depending on exactly how fast you were going. Your license could be suspended but that is rare.

  If you are caught going thirty or more miles per hour over the speed limit, your ticket could cost up to a thousand dollars. You also might face thirty days in jail but that is not likely. However, you license will very likely be suspended for at least a year.

• Red lights and stop signs – If you get pulled over for running a red light or stop sign in Hawaii, you will end up paying $200, $300 and $500, respectively, for your first second and third violations within a year’s time.

  Remember, you must make a complete and full stop at stop signs and that you cannot enter the intersection once the light has turned red. However, in Hawaii, you can still proceed through an intersection during a yellow light. Also, there is a caveat where you can turn left on red (yes, left) if you are on a one way street and turning left onto another one way street once you have already made a complete stop.

• Driving under the influence of alcohol – In Hawaii, if you drive under the influence of alcohol you will face the strictest penalties you can for any moving violation. This is the same across the United States and if you are caught driving under the influence, you will face very high fines, community service, jail time, and the loss of your license.

  Unlike the other violations on the list, you also need to factor in legal fees which could end up costing tens of thousands of dollars.

  For your first offense of DUI in Hawaii, you could face up to $1,000 in fines, seventy-two hours of community service and up to five days in jail. You will also lose your license for three months and might have to take alcohol classes and testing as well as have a breathalyzer ignition device installed in your car. For second and third offenses these penalties get exponentially worse and include the possible confiscation of your car.

Whenever you are cited for any of these violations, keep in mind that your insurance will likely increase as a result. Especially if it is a DUI, your insurance will skyrocket and you may not even be able to afford it anymore.
 

Hawaii parking violations and costs

The parking in Hawaii can be a bit complicated at times. However, if you pay close attention and ask around if you are not sure about a spot, you should be just fine. Thankfully, the parking situation is a lot less aggressive than it is in places like New York City or Los Angeles.

However, it has been reported that the Hawaii parking enforcement is extremely vigilant and does not over-look any violation they come across. So, do not take any chances.

• Parking in areas not designated for parking – If you park in area that is not designated for parking such as a bike lane you will be ticketed. These fines can be extremely high, some reaching over $200. If you park in a handicapped space, you could end up with a fine of up to $300 and some nasty looks from the locals.
• Parking meters – The parking meter enforcement is also pretty strictly enforced as well. If you have an expired meter, you will likely find a ticket for about $50 on your windshield. Don’t park in front of a broken meter either, broken meters are considered “No Parking” signs.
• Residential Parking Zones – There are some areas in Hawaii where residential areas have designated parking specifically for residents only. You cannot park in the areas under any circumstance unless you have permanently moved to Hawaii, taken residence in one of these areas and gotten the necessary parking permits.

Conclusion

Driving in Hawaii is not an all-out rush like it is in many cities in the continental United States. Take your time, drive safely, obey the rules of the road and enjoy the sights. Then, you won’t have to worry about any trouble with the police or traffic tickets. As far as parking, just pay attention and read the signs carefully. If you still aren’t sure about parking somewhere, you can always ask one of the locals as they are very friendly and will be able to help you out.

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