Losing a loved one in a car accident is one of the most devastating experiences any family can endure. When that loss happens because of another person’s carelessness, recklessness, or negligence, the pain is magnified — because it never should have happened.

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At The Law Offices of David W. Barlow, we understand the deep emotional and financial impact that follows a fatal crash. As a Hawaii wrongful death attorney with extensive experience handling serious auto accident cases, David W. Barlow is committed to helping families throughout Oahu and across the Hawaiian Islands find justice, accountability, and closure.

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Our mission is simple: to help you honor your loved one’s memory by holding negligent parties responsible and securing the financial stability your family needs to move forward.

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Compassionate Support During an Unimaginable Time

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After a fatal auto accident, families are suddenly forced to navigate an overwhelming mix of grief, confusion, and financial uncertainty. You may be facing medical bills from emergency treatment, funeral and burial expenses, and the loss of your loved one’s income — all while struggling with immense emotional pain.

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At The Law Offices of David W. Barlow, we shoulder that burden for you. From start to finish, we manage the legal and insurance aspects of your claim so that you can focus on what matters most — remembering your loved one and beginning to heal.

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Our firm handles every part of your case, including:

• Communicating with insurance companies and defense attorneys

• Investigating the cause of the fatal accident

• Identifying all liable parties and potential sources of compensation

• Gathering medical and financial documentation

• Filing court documents and handling negotiations or trial preparation

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Attorney David W. Barlow personally manages every wrongful death case. You won’t be passed off to a paralegal or case manager. From your first consultation through resolution, you’ll have direct access to an experienced Honolulu wrongful death lawyer who truly listens, communicates, and cares.

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Understanding Wrongful Death in Hawaii

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In Hawaii, a wrongful death claim is a civil action brought by surviving family members when someone’s death results from another party’s wrongful act, neglect, or default. These claims aim to compensate surviving relatives for the losses they have suffered — both economic and emotional — while also ensuring accountability for the at-fault individual or company.

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Wrongful death cases can arise from a wide range of incidents, but fatal auto accidents are among the most common in Hawaii. Our islands’ busy roads — from Honolulu’s bustling streets to the scenic highways of Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island — can become dangerous when drivers are distracted, intoxicated, or careless.

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Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Hawaii

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Under Hawaii Revised Statutes §663-3, certain family members have the legal right to bring a wrongful death claim. These include:

• The surviving spouse or reciprocal beneficiary

• Children of the deceased

• Parents of the deceased

• And, in some cases, other dependents or individuals who were financially reliant on the deceased

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Our firm helps families determine who can bring the claim, how the potential compensation should be distributed, and the best strategy for presenting a strong case.

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Because Hawaii law imposes strict deadlines (known as the statute of limitations), it’s crucial to contact a Hawaii wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. If too much time passes, your right to recover compensation could be permanently lost.

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Types of Compensation Available in a Hawaii Wrongful Death Case

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While no amount of money can ever replace the person you’ve lost, financial compensation can ease the burden of unexpected costs and provide stability for the future.

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In a Hawaii wrongful death claim, surviving family members may be entitled to recover damages such as:

Economic Damages

These are measurable financial losses caused by the death, including:

• Medical bills for treatment before death

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Lost wages and benefits your loved one would have earned

• Loss of inheritance or financial support for dependents

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Non-Economic Damages

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These compensate for the personal and emotional toll of losing a loved one:

• Loss of love, care, and companionship

• Loss of guidance, advice, and emotional support

• Emotional distress and suffering experienced by surviving family members

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Punitive Damages

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In rare cases where the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct — such as drunk driving or street racing — punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

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Every case is unique. Attorney David W. Barlow meticulously analyzes each element of your loss, consulting with financial experts, economists, and medical specialists to calculate the full extent of your family’s damages. His goal is always to pursue the maximum compensation allowed under Hawaii law.

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Why Choose David W. Barlow as Your Hawaii Wrongful Death Lawyer

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When your family is coping with a devastating loss, choosing the right attorney matters. Here’s why families across Oahu and beyond trust David W. Barlow with their most serious and sensitive cases:

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1. Local Knowledge and Experience

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David W. Barlow has represented Hawaii residents and visitors for nearly two decades. He understands the nuances of Hawaii’s wrongful death laws, the local court systems, and the tactics used by insurance companies operating in the islands. His Honolulu-based practice serves clients across Oahu, including Honolulu, Pearl City, Kaneohe, Kailua, and Kapolei, as well as families from Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

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2. Personal Attention on Every Case

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You’ll work directly with Attorney Barlow, not a case manager. He believes in clear communication, timely updates, and compassionate representation. You will never be left wondering what’s happening with your case.

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3. No Upfront Costs

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Our firm handles wrongful death cases on a contingency-fee basis. That means you pay no legal fees unless and until we win compensation for your family. This ensures that every family — regardless of financial circumstances — has access to justice.

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4. Proven Track Record

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David W. Barlow has successfully resolved numerous wrongful death and serious injury cases in Hawaii. His results reflect a deep commitment to achieving justice for families affected by preventable accidents.

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5. Compassionate and Respectful Approach

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We recognize that this isn’t just a legal claim — it’s your life, your grief, and your family’s future. We treat every client with empathy, respect, and care.

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Common Causes of Fatal Auto Accidents in Hawaii

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Hawaii’s roadways are beautiful, but they can also be deadly. Fatal crashes occur every year across the islands, often due to preventable causes such as:

• Drunk or drug-impaired driving

• Distracted driving (including texting or using a phone)

• Speeding or aggressive driving

• Failure to yield or obey traffic signals

• Drowsy driving

• Unsafe lane changes or overtaking

• Defective auto parts or mechanical failures

• Negligent commercial drivers and trucking companies

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At The Law Offices of David W. Barlow, we investigate each fatal accident thoroughly to uncover exactly what happened. Our team gathers evidence such as police reports, witness statements, vehicle data, and surveillance footage to build a strong case for accountability.

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Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

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Our firm represents families in a wide range of fatal accident cases, including:

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Car Accidents

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Drunk, distracted, and reckless drivers are responsible for countless tragedies on Hawaii’s roads each year. We help families hold these drivers — and their insurers — fully accountable.

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Truck Accidents

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Collisions involving commercial trucks or delivery vehicles can be catastrophic. We pursue claims against negligent trucking companies, drivers, and manufacturers who fail to follow safety regulations.

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Motorcycle Accidents

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Motorcyclists are vulnerable to severe injuries and fatalities when other drivers fail to see them or yield properly. We represent surviving family members after fatal motorcycle crashes across Oahu.

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Pedestrian and Crosswalk Fatalities

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Pedestrian deaths are rising in Hawaii, particularly in busy urban areas like Honolulu. When negligent drivers strike pedestrians, our firm steps in to demand justice.

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Moped, Scooter, and E-Bike Accidents

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With the popularity of mopeds and e-bikes on Oahu, riders face significant risks from inattentive or speeding drivers. We represent families in these increasingly common cases.

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Tourist and Rental Car Accidents

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Hawaii welcomes millions of visitors each year, and accidents involving rental cars or out-of-state drivers can create complex legal issues. Attorney Barlow has the experience to handle multi-jurisdictional cases and work with national insurance companies to resolve them.

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How We Prove Negligence in a Hawaii Wrongful Death Case

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To win a wrongful death claim, we must show that the at-fault party’s negligence directly caused your loved one’s death. David W. Barlow and his team meticulously investigate each case to establish the four elements of negligence:

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1. Duty of Care — The defendant had a legal obligation to act safely and avoid causing harm.

2. Breach of Duty — The defendant failed to uphold that duty through reckless, careless, or negligent actions.

3. Causation — The defendant’s actions directly caused the fatal accident.

4. Damages — The surviving family members suffered measurable losses due to the death.

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Our firm partners with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and forensic economists to present compelling evidence that strengthens your claim. Whether through settlement or trial, our approach is always grounded in facts, evidence, and compassion.

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Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Fatal Accident

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Insurance companies often prioritize profits over people — even in wrongful death cases. Adjusters may attempt to minimize the value of your claim, delay communication, or pressure you into accepting a low settlement.

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At The Law Offices of David W. Barlow, we handle all interactions with insurance companies so you don’t have to. We know their tactics, and we don’t let them take advantage of grieving families. Our approach includes:

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• Conducting independent investigations

• Reviewing all available insurance policies

• Negotiating firmly for a fair and full settlement

• Taking the case to court if necessary

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When you have David W. Barlow on your side, insurance companies know you’re serious about justice.

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The Legal Process: What to Expect

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Many clients come to us feeling overwhelmed, uncertain about how the process works. We take the time to explain every step clearly. While each case is unique, the general process of a wrongful death claim in Hawaii includes:

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1. Free Consultation: We review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.

2. Investigation: Our team gathers evidence, police reports, and expert opinions to support your claim.

3. Filing the Claim: We notify the responsible parties and insurance companies of your intent to seek damages.

4. Negotiation: We work to achieve a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses.

5. Litigation: If a settlement isn’t possible, we prepare your case for trial in a Hawaii court.

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Throughout the process, Attorney Barlow keeps you informed and involved, ensuring that you understand your rights and every decision being made.

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How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Hawaii?

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Under Hawaii law, most wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. This is known as the statute of limitations. However, there can be exceptions depending on the circumstances — such as cases involving government entities or delayed discovery of negligence.

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If you miss this deadline, your family could lose the right to seek compensation forever. That’s why it’s essential to contact a Hawaii serious car accident injury lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.

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The Importance of Hiring a Local Hawaii Attorney

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Out-of-state law firms sometimes advertise heavily in Hawaii, but wrongful death cases here often require local insight and connections. Attorney David W. Barlow has built strong relationships within the Hawaii legal community and understands local court procedures, judges, and insurance defense lawyers.

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As a Honolulu personal injury attorney, he brings:

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• Knowledge of Hawaii’s unique auto insurance and liability laws

• Understanding of island-specific accident trends

• Familiarity with local police departments and medical experts

• Compassionate, culturally respectful representation for Hawaii families

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When you hire David W. Barlow, you’re hiring a local advocate who knows how to fight — and win — for families across Oahu and beyond.

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Honoring Your Loved One Through Justice

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Every wrongful death case represents more than financial recovery — it represents accountability. It’s about saying that your loved one’s life mattered and that negligence will not go unanswered.

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David W. Barlow approaches each case with that philosophy in mind. His work is not only about legal advocacy but also about helping families heal through justice.

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Whether your case involves a fatal car crash in Honolulu, a truck collision on H-1, or a pedestrian accident in Waikiki, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii Wrongful Death Claims

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How much is a wrongful death claim worth in Hawaii?

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The value depends on many factors — including the deceased person’s income, age, family situation, and the extent of negligence. Attorney Barlow carefully evaluates every element to pursue the maximum possible recovery.

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Can I file a claim if my loved one was partially at fault?

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Yes. Under Hawaii’s comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages even if your loved one was partly responsible — as long as they were not more at fault than the other party.

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Do I have to go to court?

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Many cases settle out of court, but David W. Barlow prepares every case as if it will go to trial. This strategy often leads to stronger settlements and ensures we’re ready to fight if litigation becomes necessary.

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What does it cost to hire your firm?

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You pay no upfront fees. Our firm only collects a fee if we successfully recover compensation for your family.

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Take the Next Step Toward Justice

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If you’ve lost a spouse, child, or parent due to a car accident in Hawaii, you deserve answers, accountability, and fair compensation. The sooner you speak with a qualified attorney, the stronger your case will be.

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Contact The Law Offices of David W. Barlow today for a free and confidential consultation. Our Honolulu motor vehicle accident lawyer will listen to your story, explain your options, and help you begin the journey toward justice.

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We proudly serve families across Honolulu, Oahu, and throughout the Hawaiian Islands.