Traffic fatalities, including two motorcycle fatalities in the past week, are on the rise in Oahu, sparking concern among residents and local officials.
HONOLULU (Island News) -- A rising number of traffic fatalities in recent days is eliciting growing anxiety among several Hawaii residents and local officials this year.
A recent handful of accidents include a motorcycle fatality this week on the H-1 near the airport viaduct on Oahu.
At least two primary traffic related issues are top of mind:
Major James Slayter with the HPD Traffic Division told Island News on Thursday, "I think the alarming numbers last year were the amount of pedestrians and motorcycle riders that we lost on Oahu's roadways. Last year, we capped off with 19 pedestrians and 12 motorcycle riders. That was already an alarming number. This year we're not off to a great start, we're already at a pace to either surpass or meet last year's numbers."
Honolulu Police Department's Traffic Division is emphasizing heighted awareness.
"The key thing we want to do is really just promote traffic safety for all roadway users, but especially focusing on pedestrian safety as well as motorcycle safety. Some of the factors we're seeing from motorcycle riders right now, speed is definitely a factor. We recommend anybody who is operating, whether it's a bicycle, moped, motor scooter, motorcycle, wear a helmet", added Major Slayter.
As far as pedestrians, HPD is reportedly seeing many of them disregarding a don't walk signal or crossing outside of a marked crosswalk.
A local driving school instructor and owner in Hawaii spoke with Island News this week about what's on his radar:
Scott Kekumano with Keku's Driving School stated, "We've got people coming from different countries. We've got active duty military that have never driven before. We've got university students—they're not required to do anything, just get a permit."
Many wonder what additional awareness is needed.
"The general consensus with the community is the reckless nature of the e-bikes," added Kekumano.
Is it time to change/adjust driver training and how so?
Kekumano shared, "Every adult licensed driver has to renew their license. That could be an opportunity, for the Department of Motor Vehicle in concert with the Department of Transportation to somehow put together a curriculum, education testing to get our drivers better informed and more knowledgeable."
Local driving instructors have also expressed that regardless of age, a high percentage of people are consistently failing tests, rebooking and taking up a lot of appointments.
For additional information regarding driving questions or related concerns, reach out to www8.honolulu.gov/services/.
You can also contact kekusdriving.com.
