Emergency Situations and Defensive Driving in Hawaii

1. What is the legal blood alcohol limit in Hawaii for operating a vehicle?


In Hawaii, the legal blood alcohol limit for operating a vehicle is 0.08 percent.

2. What are the rules for passing a stopped school bus in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, vehicles must come to a complete stop at least 20 feet away from a stopped school bus that is displaying its flashing red lights and stop arm. Drivers must remain stopped until the school bus resumes motion, or the driver is signaled by the bus driver to proceed. On a divided highway, vehicles traveling in the opposite direction from the stopped school bus are not required to stop.

3. In what situations should a driver yield the right of way in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, drivers should yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks, to other vehicles when turning left, to emergency vehicles, and to vehicles already in traffic circles. When two vehicles arrive at an intersection at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right of way.

4. What is Hawaii’s distracted driving law?


Hawaii has one of the strictest distracted driving laws in the United States. As of July 1, 2020, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving (including while stopped in traffic). This includes talking on the phone, texting, video chatting, and any other use. There are some exceptions to this law, such as using a hands-free device or GPS device. Drivers who are caught violating this law will be fined up to $99 for a first offense and up to $200 for subsequent offenses.

5. Is it legal to use a cell phone while driving in Hawaii?


No, it is not legal to use a cell phone while driving in Hawaii. This includes talking on the phone, texting, and any other form of communication while driving.

6. When should a driver use high beams in Hawaii?


High beams should only be used in Hawaii when there is no oncoming traffic and no one in front of the vehicle.

7. What is the speed limit on highways in Hawaii?


The speed limit on highways in Hawaii is typically 65 mph, unless otherwise posted.

8. How long are drivers allowed to drive without taking a break in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, commercial drivers are allowed to drive for 11 hours within a 14-hour period, with a break of at least 30 minutes from driving within the first 8 consecutive hours of coming on duty. They are also required to take a 10-hour break after completing the 14-hour period.

9. What should drivers do when approaching a railroad crossing in Hawaii?


When approaching a railroad crossing in Hawaii, drivers should reduce speed and look both ways to make sure no train is coming. They should also obey all signals given by the railroad crossing such as flashing lights, bells and/or gates. If a train is approaching, drivers must stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail and remain stopped until the train has passed.

10. How should drivers react if they encounter an aggressive driver on the road in Hawaii?


If a driver encounters an aggressive driver on the road, they should remain calm, avoid eye contact, and do their best to get away from the situation. They should not engage the aggressive driver, instead they should call 911 to report any unsafe driving or other suspicious activity. Additionally, they should pay attention to their surroundings and be aware of their surroundings in case of any potential danger.

11. How should drivers react to a flooded roadway in Hawaii?


Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway in Hawaii. Even relatively shallow water can be hazardous due to uneven surfaces, hidden debris, and swift-moving currents. It is best to turn around and find an alternate route.

12. How can drivers prepare their vehicles for winter driving in Hawaii?


Drivers in Hawaii should make sure that their vehicles are in good working order before the winter months. Tires should be inspected for wear and proper inflation, fluids should be checked and topped off to the appropriate levels, the battery should be tested, and lights should be checked. Additionally, drivers should carry emergency supplies such as a blanket, extra clothing, a first-aid kit, an ice scraper, a shovel, jumper cables, and some type of traction aid such as sand or kitty litter.

13. What is the legal age for operating a vehicle in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, the minimum age for operating a vehicle is 16 years old with a valid learner’s permit.

14. What are the rules for stopping at a stop sign in Hawaii?


According to Hawaii’s State Laws, when approaching a stop sign, drivers must come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to any vehicles in the intersection or approaching it that are so close as to constitute an immediate hazard. Drivers must also check for other vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians before proceeding.

15. Who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection in Hawaii?


At an uncontrolled intersection in Hawaii, the driver who arrived at the intersection first has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the left should be given right of way.

16. What are the rules for using emergency lanes on highways in Hawaii?


Emergency lanes on highways in Hawaii are reserved for emergency vehicles only. All other vehicles must use the regular lanes unless instructed otherwise by a law enforcement officer. It is illegal to travel in an emergency lane unless you are an emergency vehicle or have received permission from a law enforcement officer. If you are caught driving in an emergency lane, you could face a hefty fine.

17. How should drivers manage their speed on curvy roads in Hawaii?


Drivers should always slow down on curvy roads and be aware of their speed. Use caution when navigating a curve, and reduce speed before entering to maintain control of the vehicle. Be aware of the posted speed limit signs and obey them at all times. Look ahead for potential hazards, such as pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles, and be prepared to brake to avoid any potential collisions. Additionally, be aware that wet roads can make curves even more difficult to maneuver.

18. What is the minimum age for having a learner’s permit in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, the minimum age for obtaining a learner’s permit is 15 years old.

19. What is the rule for yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks in Hawaii?


In Hawaii, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks. Drivers must stop and allow pedestrians to cross before proceeding. Drivers must also exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian on a roadway.

20. When should drivers use headlights during daylight hours in Hawaii?


Drivers should use their headlights during daylight hours when visibility is impaired due to weather or other conditions like dust or fog.