Law Office of Mark Gallagher

07/30/2026

Is driving in Hawaii hard?

Hawaii roads have their own rules.

07/17/2026

Governor Green has signed House Bill 2021 into law providing an increase in roadway safety. Thank you Governor Green. The new law prohibits stunt or exhibition riding on roadways, requires helmets for users under age 18, places age limits on the operation of e-bikes, and creates registration requirements. Hopefully these changes will reduce the amount of injuries and deaths we have been seeing in Hawaii.

07/13/2026

Review 3 strict rules that limit what state policies cover after a car accident.

Discover local fault rules.

06/04/2026

According to the Honolulu Police Department on May 31, 2026, at about 11:15 P.M., a serious motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian occurred near Farrington Highway in the Waianae area. It was reported that an unidentified motorist was traveling westbound on Farrington Highway when it executed a right turn into the Waianae Mall and struck a 37-year-old male pedestrian, who was crossing the mall entrance driveway, in a marked crosswalk. The unidentified motorist continued traveling into the mall parking lot without stopping to render aid or provide information.

In a situation like this where the driver is not identified, the innocent injured party can be left with no way to pay for injury related losses including medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain, suffering, and disability. Adding uninsured motorist coverage to your own auto policy can provide you with protection. This coverage is relatively cheap and covers you if you are injured by an uninsured driver, even if you are not in your vehicle. While none of us like to pay more for insurance this can be a good investment in protecting yourself.

06/02/2026

Is the hotel liable for a vacation injury?

Understanding legal responsibility.

05/29/2026

The Hawai legislature passed HB2021 which is designed to increase safety by placing limits on the use of electric bicycles including the prohibition of stunts. All wheels are to stay on the ground. Among other restrictions it prohibits the use of high speed electric vehicles bikes on bike paths and bike lanes. Hopefully, Governor Green will sign it into law and give local police departments additional tools for safety.

05/16/2026

On April 30, 2026, there was another serious e-bike accident in Honolulu near the intersection of King Street and Pensacola Street. Reports indicate that the driver of a truck may have gone through a red light and struck the biker who was seriously injured. As we have more alternative methods of transportation on the road in Hawaii (e-bikes, e-scooters, mopeds, pedal bikes) it is important for drivers to be aware of them. Drivers owe a duty of care to other expected users of the road. If a bike has the right of way drivers must yield to them and respect their rights to be on the road. To do this, drivers need to train themselves to look for everyone on the road, and not just other vehicles. Check twice, save a life.

05/08/2026

A vacation crash in Hawaii can leave you with unexpected bills. Know what expenses you may recover.

Know your rights.