Distracted driving is on the rise. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, Hawaii is one of the worst offenders. If you have lost a loved one due to a car accident, you need a wrongful death attorney in Honolulu, Hawaii. The dedicated team at Kurzban, Kurzban, Tetzeli, and Pratt P.A. understand the emotional factors, financial burden, and the need for closure an untimely death of a loved one brings. When you lose someone due to the negligent, careless, or intentional acts of another, you deserve compensation. Call Kurzban, Kurzban, Tetzeli, and Pratt P.A. today.
What We Know So Far
On a Sunday afternoon, a 2018 Toyota Corolla hit a 67-year-old motorcyclist. According to reports, the Corolla was heading north on Highway 19 and failed to yield to oncoming traffic. There have been no reports that alcohol or speeding were factors in this accident. Instead, the East Hawaii Traffic Enforcement Unit is currently investigating. It is suspected that “inattention to driving and failure to yield” are major contributors.
Police say the Corolla had three passengers, a woman, and two children. The Toyota Corolla driver was transported to Hilo Medical Center for minor injuries and was later released. The passengers were not injured.
The motorcyclist was found unresponsive at the scene. The man was also transported to Hilo Medical Center. The 67-year-old man was pronounced dead at 4:24 pm.
The driver of the Corolla was arrested for “negligent homicide in the second degree.”
The investigation is still pending.
Hawaii’s Distracted Driving Epidemic
Hawaii currently ranks in the top five for distracted driving deaths in the country. With one of the smaller populations in the 50 states, that is astounding. In the latest reporting year:
- Hawaii has seen a 41% increase in distracted driving deaths
- The national average is 9.2 fatalities per million
- Hawaii rates 16.9 fatalities per million
- Distracted driving is most prevalent for 16–24-year-old
Distracted driving has become a tremendous problem amongst teens. With the rise of social media and the availability of numerous apps, distracted driving by teens and young adults costs lives. This has garnered a lot of media attention over the years. However, according to AAA, distracted driving amongst older adults is growing as well. The study found that more and more older adults are starting to use cell phones and embrace the changing technology. They are also seen to be using cell phones more behind the wheel. Whether it’s checking Facebook posts to see their grandchildren or trying to make a call, nearly 60% of drivers over 65 have confessed to texting, answer their phone, or making calls while behind the wheel. 32% have admitted to doing so with a minor in the car.
Distracted driving is a concern for all ages. Here, a 67-year-old man lost his life.
What Kurzban, Kurzban, Tetzeli, and Pratt P.A. Can Do for You
If you have suffered a loss due to a distracted driver, their negligence and carelessness on the road should not go unanswered. Take a stand against distracted driving. Let Kurzban, Kurzban, Tetzeli, and Pratt P.A. secure the compensation you deserve. When you need a wrongful death attorney in Honolulu, Hawaii, call Kurzban, Kurzban, Tetzeli, and Pratt P.A. Contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 808-736-5035.