If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident anywhere in Hawaii, it is crucial to have a lawyer who understands the laws that protect bicyclists and who has the experience to fight for your rights. At the Law Offices of David W. Barlow, our Honolulu accident injury lawyers represent injured cyclists throughout Oahu and across the Hawaiian Islands. We are committed to helping those hurt in serious bicycle collisions secure the compensation they need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. With decades of experience handling bicycle and motor vehicle collisions, attorney David W. Barlow is a trusted advocate for the people of Hawaii.

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Bicyclists are uniquely vulnerable on the road. Even at relatively low speeds, collisions with motor vehicles can result in catastrophic injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and lifelong disabilities. Hawaii law recognizes the heightened risks faced by bicyclists and provides protection for injured cyclists. Under these laws, drivers who act negligently are legally responsible for the injuries and damages they cause. If you were hit by a car while riding a bicycle in Honolulu, Oahu, or elsewhere in Hawaii, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and damage to your bicycle.

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Understanding Your Rights After a Bicycle Accident in Hawaii

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In Hawaii, bicycles are generally treated as vehicles under the law, which means bicyclists must obey most of the same traffic rules as drivers. However, the law places an added responsibility on motor vehicle drivers to watch for cyclists and to operate their vehicles with care. Drivers are expected to leave sufficient room when passing bicyclists, to slow down when approaching, and to yield the right-of-way in intersections and crosswalks. Many bicycle accidents in Honolulu occur because drivers fail to follow these basic safety rules.

 

Common mistakes include:

• Passing too closely in traffic lanes or on multi-lane roads like Ala Moana Boulevard or Kapiolani Boulevard

• Making right turns across bike lanes without checking for cyclists

• Failing to see cyclists in congested areas such as Waikiki, Downtown Honolulu, or near the University of Hawaii at Manoa

• Distracted driving, including texting, eating, or using navigation devices

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One of the most common excuses we hear from negligent drivers in Hawaii is, “I didn’t see the bicyclist.” This is not a defense. Every driver has a legal duty to maintain a proper lookout for cyclists. Failing to do so constitutes negligence, and our firm has successfully proven this in countless cases, ensuring insurance companies and courts recognize that “I didn’t see them” is unacceptable in Hawaii.

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Hawaii’s No-Fault Insurance and Bicycle Accidents

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Hawaii has a unique No-Fault insurance system that can be confusing for bicyclists. Unlike drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and moped riders are not required to carry auto insurance. Yet, when a bicyclist is injured by a motor vehicle, the driver’s insurance policy typically covers up to $10,000 in medical benefits, regardless of who was at fault.

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These benefits can cover:

• Ambulance transportation

• Emergency room visits

• X-rays, MRIs, and radiology exams

• Surgery, if required

• Physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture

• Prescription medications

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Even if the driver disputes fault, these benefits are available to ensure that an injured bicyclist can receive prompt medical care. However, insurance companies often require that the cyclist cooperate with their investigation. This usually involves giving a recorded statement and providing medical records. It’s critical to speak with a Hawaii bicycle accident lawyer before providing any statements, as insurers sometimes use these statements to limit payment, deny certain treatments, or argue that your injuries predated the accident.

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The no-fault medical benefits are separate from your injury claim. Once your treatment is complete and your doctor confirms your recovery progress, your attorney will negotiate the injury claim for pain and suffering, lost wages, and long-term impairments. This claim is typically paid in a lump-sum settlement, allowing you to move forward with financial stability while focusing on recovery. At the Law Offices of David W. Barlow, we have decades of experience handling both no-fault and injury claims for cyclists throughout Oahu, ensuring our clients receive maximum compensation.

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Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Honolulu and Oahu

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Honolulu and Oahu present unique risks for bicyclists due to traffic congestion, narrow lanes, high tourist activity, and busy intersections. Some of the most frequent types of bicycle accidents we handle include:

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1. Right-turn accidents: Drivers turning right into parking lots or side streets often fail to notice cyclists in the bike lane. For example, a cyclist traveling along Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki may be cut off by a turning vehicle entering a hotel parking lot.

2. Intersection collisions: Drivers running red lights or failing to yield at intersections frequently strike cyclists who have the right of way. These accidents often occur in areas such as King Street and Nimitz Highway, where visibility can be limited.

3. Dooring accidents: Parked cars opening doors into bike lanes can force cyclists into traffic or cause serious head and shoulder injuries.

4. Distracted or impaired driving: Texting, phone use, or driving under the influence dramatically increases the risk of collision.

5. Poorly maintained roads: Uneven pavement, potholes, or debris can cause cyclists to lose control, particularly on streets like Houghtailing Street or University Avenue in Manoa.

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Example Scenario: Realistic Case

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A bicyclist riding in the bike lane along Ala Moana Boulevard is struck by a car making a right turn into a shopping center. The driver claims they did not see the cyclist. The bicyclist suffers a broken arm, a concussion, and road rash. David W. Barlow’s team gathers evidence, including traffic camera footage and witness statements, and demonstrates the driver’s negligence. The client receives full coverage for medical expenses under no-fault insurance, plus a substantial injury settlement.

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Serious Injuries and Helmet Safety

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Bicyclists are vulnerable to severe injuries even in relatively minor crashes. Common injuries we see in Hawaii include:

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• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

• Spinal cord injuries, sometimes resulting in partial or total paralysis

• Broken bones and fractures

• Internal organ damage

• Road rash, lacerations, and soft tissue injuries

• Long-term pain, emotional trauma, and permanent disability

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Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the severity of head injuries, but it does not eliminate the risk. From representing clients who sustained severe brain injuries, David W. Barlow strongly urges every cyclist in Honolulu and across Oahu to always wear a helmet. Helmets are particularly important in areas with high traffic volumes, such as Waikiki, Downtown Honolulu, and the Ala Moana Beach Park area.

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Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Bicycle Accident

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Insurance adjusters often favor their insured drivers, even when the driver was clearly negligent. This can make obtaining a fair settlement difficult. At the Law Offices of David W. Barlow, we know how to handle these tactics and fight for full compensation. We aggressively negotiate with insurance companies and are fully prepared to take cases to trial if necessary.

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Some cases can be resolved without litigation, but when insurance companies refuse fair offers, going to trial ensures that the rights of the injured bicyclist are fully protected. Our firm has a strong record of success in settling and litigating bicycle accident cases across Honolulu and Oahu, achieving maximum compensation for our clients while minimizing unnecessary stress.

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Why Choose David W. Barlow as Your Hawaii Auto Accident Lawyer

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Attorney David W. Barlow has decades of experience representing injured bicyclists and motor vehicle accident victims in Hawaii. His firm provides personalized, attentive service to every client, combining legal expertise with compassion. Choosing a local attorney with deep knowledge of Oahu’s roads, traffic patterns, and court system is critical to achieving the best outcomes.

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We prioritize:

• Thorough investigation of accidents

• Preservation of crucial evidence

• Expert negotiation with insurers

• Aggressive trial representation if needed

• Personalized support and guidance throughout the recovery process

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All cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay no attorney fees unless compensation is recovered.

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Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Hawaii

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1. Call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Even minor injuries can become serious.

2. Report the accident to the police and ensure a report is filed.

3. Exchange information with the driver, including license plate number and insurance details.

4. Document the scene with photos and videos of your injuries, the bicycle, and the accident location.

5. Seek legal advice before giving statements to insurance companies.

6. Contact a local bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

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The first few days after an accident are critical. Evidence can disappear quickly, and insurance companies may act to minimize their liability. Having a knowledgeable attorney from the outset improves your chances of obtaining fair and timely compensation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What should I do if I’m hit by a car while riding my bicycle in Hawaii?

Seek immediate medical care, report the accident, document the scene, and contact an experienced Honolulu bicycle accident lawyer.

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Do I need a lawyer for a bicycle accident claim?

Yes. Bicycle accidents often involve complex liability and insurance issues. A skilled attorney like David W. Barlow ensures you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.

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Who pays for my medical bills after a bicycle accident?

Under Hawaii’s No-Fault law, the driver’s insurance typically covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses. Additional claims for pain, suffering, and lost income can be pursued separately.

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What if the driver says they didn’t see me?

This is not a valid defense. Drivers have a legal duty to watch for bicyclists. “I didn’t see the cyclist” does not absolve them of liability.

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How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Hawaii?

The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the accident, though certain exceptions may apply. Early consultation with a lawyer is crucial.

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Can I recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. While wearing a helmet is strongly advised for safety, it does not prevent you from recovering damages. Compensation is based on the driver’s negligence, not helmet use.

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What types of damages can I claim?

Medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability, emotional distress, and property damage (including your bicycle).

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Do accidents in popular areas like Waikiki or Downtown Honolulu affect my claim?

Location may influence evidence gathering and witness availability, but it does not reduce your right to fair compensation. David W. Barlow is experienced in handling accidents in all high-traffic Oahu areas.

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Contact the Law Offices of David W. Barlow

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If you have been injured in a bicycle accident anywhere on Oahu or another Hawaiian island, contact the Law Offices of David W. Barlow immediately. Early legal representation protects your rights, preserves evidence, and ensures you receive the maximum compensation possible.

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Our attorneys offer a free consultation and provide an honest evaluation of your case. We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis — no attorney fees are charged unless we recover compensation for you.

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David W. Barlow is dedicated to helping injured bicyclists recover from their accidents and get back to their lives. Whether your crash occurred on Ala Moana Boulevard, Kapiolani Boulevard, Waikiki, Downtown Honolulu, or elsewhere on Oahu, our team has the experience and local knowledge to protect your rights and achieve results.