Believe it or not, the idea for this video was from three years ago. However, it just kept getting pushed back and pushed back, so I'm glad I'm finally able to talk about it. So many video ideas, so little time 😆
This video should be shared to the tourists on their infotainment screens on the arrival planes, and to the locals at the DMV, schools, university/colleges, and whichever media.
So true, I was in a crosswalk in Salt Lake when I was hit. That area is known as the most dangerous crosswalk in Honolulu. Two others in their 70s were seriously injured in the same location at different times. I remember the driver did not have headlights on and it was a dark vehicle. Now after 3 surgery failures I am still in pain. The driver did not see me cross. He yelled to other folks I didn't see him. You are right, be careful. I thought I was careful but crap happens.
I live part of the year on Oahu and part of the year in New England. In general I find drivers on Oahu to be very polite and less agressive than in most other cities. Very few Honolulu drivers though seem to know what turn signals are and there are a lot of older frail looking typically Asian locals who are lost in space. So as a driver, pedestrian or cyclist just be alert, be aloha, be clear in how you signal your intentions. Mahalo for an interesting video!
Its so interesting to hear this from your perspective. Wife's family is from Ohau. I'm from Washington DC. Every time we come back to see family, I find Hawaiian drivers to be absolutely lovely. Polite, use their signals, aren't driving aggressively, mindful of pedestrians, throw up a shaka for letting them in, etc. I think you'd be horrified to see how people drive back on the mainland lol.
I agree with this video pretty much front to back. Being someone who has lived in a number of cities including Honolulu, I can say you are absolutely correct. I would add though, Oahu (particularly Downtown to Waikiki) has the world's worst pedestrians. There isn't even a close second. I avoid the area almost entirely due to pedestrians. The number of people (usually tourists but not always) that just walk into dangerous positions without a clue is insane. Yes "pedestrians have the right of way" legally, but the mindset that some people have walking is so crazy.Worse though is people on bikes and electric skateboards. These people will go sidewalk to street to crosswalk to street to sidewalk without ever looking over their shoulder once just assuming "I have the right of way." Yes Hawaii has some bad drivers, but man, it's got some BAD pedestrians too.
Good observations about pedestrians and those on bikes and scooters. At least downtown Honolulu has less people than before the pandemic so not as many walkers. And Waikiki is a tough place to drive because people aren't paying attention.
I feel like that says more about the infra than the pedestrian. If people are crossing where there isn't a crosswalk, gotta ask why. Probably because the next one is too damn far. Also, if the e-bike guys could have a bike lane they wouldn't be mixing with traffic and causing problems.
@@meijiishin5650 this reply makes sense logically, but it’s not the case. Honolulu has crosswalks everywhere. I would actually tend to make the statement there are too many. Having people stop traffic to use a crosswalk when there is a stoplight 200 feet away is ridiculous to me. Also Hawaii doesn’t have the best bike lanes, however, I have with my own eyes watched people ride their bikes in traffic 6 feet away from the empty bike lane. So while MAYBE there is something to do infrastructure wise, it’s not adding more crosswalks and bike lanes. This is my opinion, no data to back it up, but there are so many people here that are here on vacation that they don’t act “normal.” People on vacation feel totally entitled to J-walk or “bend the rules” cuz after all, they are on vacation. Then you end up with a bunch of locals seeing these people act like that and go “well if they are going to break the rules I’m not going to burden myself by waiting here properly” and boom… breakdown of the whole system. Plus homeless people…. Lots and lots and lots and lots of homeless people.
@@meijiishin5650 yea my initial comment points out I’m really specifically talking about the area from downtown to Waikiki. Outside of that area the pedestrian problem becomes significantly less of an issue. Sure you’ll still have accidents randomly all over, but that’s not usually due to the problems outlined in this video. Those end up being speeding drunk people or homeless people in the streets.
I am very glad your mom is getting better from her injuries. I do know what that is like. I was in a pedestrian/vehicle accident last year, being hit from the back while I was in the crosswalk with the light. I didn’t see the driver coming up behind me-he drove diagonally thru the crosswalk to get to a parking lot entrance. I was walking southbound and hit hard enough that I was face down on the pavement with my head pointed directly west. The driver was cited for failure to yield pedestrian right of way. I was seriously injured, surgery and hospitalization for 13 days and staying at a rehab center for 3 months. 19 months later I am still recovering from my injuries. In a personal injury suit, when you are deposed, one of the first questions you will be asked is “what color was the walk light when you entered the crosswalk?” Be careful at night especially, wear clothes that are easier to see and don’t count on the driver to do the right thing. I hate to say that but I have seen so many impatient drivers since then-you just have to be defensive as a pedestrian. Always pay attention, and look behind you even if it feels overly cautious.
Mahalo for sharing what happened to you. I'm sure the physical therapy is tough. Yeah, I try to walk defensively and always look at the cars. Can never tell what some drivers might do
In Honolulu it is a ticketable offense to be looking at your phone while crossing in a crosswalk. Also known as Bill 6 or the Distracted Walking Law, the law makes it very clear that the only legal reason to look at a cell phone while in the process of crossing a street or a highway is to call 911.
I remember when we moved to Oahu and I saw a minimum speed limit posted on the H1 and I was shocked... I'd never seen that on a freeway before!!! One thing I love, and hate, is that people are so generous and kind to allow others right of way out of parking lots and other places... It's so nice to do, but also so dangerous.... There were many times when driving on a road, where we had the right of way, and the driver in front of me would come to a stop out of nowhere, to allow someone to exit a parking lot. It's dangerous because you're not expecting to have to slam on your brakes for no reason when traffic is flowing and you have a green light ahead.
The Las Vegas strip is a good example. "Look at me, I'm a tourist, everyone encourages me to be an idiot! Lalalalallaa" *runs into traffic to take a selfie*
Thanks for your comments on awareness for both walkers and drivers, with everyone carrying phones & tablets, worst inventions for today's people IMHO. An accident will definitely cause PTSD especially for a senior citizens. WAKE UP DRIVERS & WALKERS turn off the phone & be alert. Even if you don't die in a accident it will affect your life😮😊
Good subject. I’m a senior live in downtown and walk every day. I wish drivers would READ the signs! No one seems to do that now days. Some times very dangerous crossing the streets, exactly like you say, people need to pay attention to what they are doing… pedestrians and motorists. Getting bad with cyclists, especially the ebikes, they think they have the right of way on the sidewalks! Anyway good topic, mahalo for letting me vent!
The ones you really have to watch out for are off-duty police officers dui/dwi . . . No, that's next to impossible because they often rear end victims or run red lights at full speed. And, no, you will NOT get any recourse, justice or compensation. That is, if you survive such a collision.
👠 simple to do, but so sad that people don't ! Also an extra tip - I don't know if it's a "generational" or "southern" thing, but I was raised that the man/male walks closer to the curb (and the girl/woman) walk on the inside! In case a vehicle (or whatever), should run up on the curb! It's a form of chivalry😎. Stay safe🌸
Pedestrians need to be mindful but we really need driver education and to move away from our car centered mentality . I observe that drivers do not stop for pedestrians in crosswalks-I’ve read about creative ways other countries States are making it safer for pedestrians we need a big focus on urban design-
Ending Labor day weekend, My family had a pretty good time in Oahu for 9 days and visited pretty much all the places we wanted to visit. We rode bus for the first half and rented an SUV for the remaining days. Yes, one thing I was very surprised of was the sheer number of cars on the road. Even on small roads, cars were everywhere. One second I saw no cars behind me, the next second some car is on my rear wondering why I am not going fast enough.
@@HelloFromHawaii Actually it was a sedan at some shopping center. But we drove all around Oahu. It was still fun and memorable overall. I once dropped off my wife at a donut shop because I could not find parking and parked further out and waited for wife to return. While I was waiting in that small street, I was surprised to see constant flow of vehicle traffic in that residential street. I thought "Man this island has so many drivers". But again, I really enjoyed my time in Oahu. I want to go back again for sure.
I really hope DOT doesn’t add more raised crosswalks or speed humps. I drive to Kailua through Waimanalo ~5x a week and there are 10 speed humps I go over. They slow down traffic especially when there’s a lot of traffic or a big vehicle. The trucks I drive have longer wheel bases and need to slow down to 10-15mph to go over the humps just like the bus or handivan. When 1 person slows down that much it slows down people behind them. A few of the raised crosswalks have the Hawk flashing lights that pedestrians can use to cross safely which I think would be much better than raised crosswalks and speed humps. And honestly I’ve seen more people jay walking than using crosswalks in waimanalo anyway.
Thanks for the useful video. I'm unsure whether the pedestrian-automobile relationship is worse in Honolulu than in other cities. It seems to be a tossup. However, outside of Downtown and Kaka'ako (and the wealthier suburbs where people don't walk in any case), there often aren't any sidewalks, which makes walking very dangerous. The lack of safety is exacerbated by the apparently common idea that traffic rules are optional: for example, try standing at the corner of King and Punchbowl facing Honolulu Hale during the afternoon rush hour and you will see one or two cars run almost every other red light on King, On Prospect (Punchbowl), cars will actually accelerate and weave around you when you are in the crosswalk, as if it were some sort of automotive slalom game. And then there are the children bouncing in the back of pickup trucks without seats or restraints ....
I agree that many places don't have sidewalks. I grew up on a street that didn't. Hard to walk in the neighborhood when cars are parked on the grass. And yes, Punchbowl is a crazy place to drive and walk.
I used to bike/walk to work in town. I literally saw a pedestrian walking in a crosswalk with the walk sign on get hit one afternoon. Lucky for them they were right in front of the hospital and an empty ambulance happened to be driving by. Also didn’t trust the two-way bike lanes on a one way street (King). I feel like not a lot of drivers were aware that they had to look both ways before turning.
The worst crossing is south St and Auahi. It’s a crosswalk without traffic lights. Nighttime is the worst because people love to blast down South st when it looks clear.
When you are making a vlog about pedestrian safety tips downtown - you know you're in trouble. When you are making a vlog about pedestrian safety tips downtown, and one of the first t-sections you cross greets you with screeching tires - you know you're in trouble. When you talk about polarized sunglasses being a virtue - that is, being able to look through windshields and see whether drivers are even looking at the road - you know you're in trouble. When road signs are frequently banged up - making them hard to see and tending to stay that way probably because people have long stopped bothering to repair or replace them - you know you're in trouble. When the city makes crosswalk bridges that infrequent or in such bad locations that no one will use them but the government thinks if they make those bridges, people will use them no matter what - you know you're in trouble. When you're walking downtown and the roads are too narrow, the urban planning too bad, the drivers even worse, and construction galore - you know you should have stayed home.
I would rather DRive in Hawaii then California (where I live now) any day of the week! The ONLY complaint about Hawaii Drivers that I always had, was that many drive too SLOW. This, can actually be just as hazardous as someone who drives too fast in my opinion.
Unfortunately, some people don't follow the rules, like you said the "No Right Turn on Red." I agree, you have to be on the alert when you're walking to see what the cars are going to do, even if you have the right of way. My dad used to say, you may be right, still dead, but right.
Part of it is tourists that somehow think it is fine to do whatever they want because they are on vacation. Being here and/ or visiting doesn’t mean being inconsiderate. Good tips and good video… thanks.
@@HelloFromHawaii I agree it takes the tourist and the locals to pay attention. In NYC tourist tend to walk slow, in the middle of the sidewalk and are looking up. But crossing the street is like a start of a race and you gotta move LOL. PS It would be nice to put a mural up on those walls instead of just the grey stones.
- So many pedestrian cross the street with such disregard for vehicles. My parents told me when I was young to pay attention when I cross the street, look in both directions at least twice. And always to remember that a vehicle is to respected, because of it's thousand of pounds it has the ability to hurt, disable us for life and to the extreme, cause us death. - People who jaywalk in Hawaii can get a minimum fine of around $150. - Drivers who's vehicle enter the crosswalk while there are pedestrians within them can receive a $180 fine. - People need to pay attention while walking or driving on our roadways. A moment of distraction can lead to a lifetime of misery.
News flash; American drivers drive like ka ka (saying it politely). Mostly because a great big chunk of licensed drivers really don't drive a lot and their skills are terrible. Watch people parallel park in a city or back up to things. Generally, professional drivers are a lot better but they don't get a total pass either. Cops, EMS and firemen are generally good drivers but there are exceptions, usually cops. as a retired State Trooper I don't say that lightly. In Honolulu in the 1980s as a cop I wondered if asking the question about hydroplaning had been omitted from the written exam. Heavy rain on Oahu and you take your life in your hands. And to be fair, in defense, the worst times to drive in Alaska are just before the roads get icy and again in the spring when they thaw during the day. Apparent understanding the concept of following too closely and stopping distance were eliminated from the AK DMV test as well. Good drivers drive defensively, it should be the manta of pedestrians too.
This is everywhere, not just Hawaii. I remember a long time ago, a lot of elderly people were getting hit on the Pali in Nuuanu. I should also add, that pedestrians should stop wearing dark colors in the dark. I don't know why 80% of pedestrians at night wear dark colors. It's already hard to see a pedestrian at night, but then you wear dark clothes and I only see you right when you are in front of my headlights. One last thing, is that pedestrians in neighborhoods that walk in the road on the incoming lanes. We can't see you when we take a corner because we are not expecting a pedestrian in the road. Walk on the sidewalks. I know the up and down of driveways isn't fun, but it's not fun being hit by a car either.
At traffic lights you can start walking when the walk symbol appears but you gotta make sure ALL the cars are completely stopped. Do not enter the crosswalk once the lights start flashing (this is the biggest violation that I see). At crosswalks without lights,. again make sure ALL the cars are completely stopped before stepping off the curb. As you cross you have to be constantly on the lookout for vehicles that are approaching to make sure they see you. PUT CELL PHONES IN YOUR PURSE/POCKET!
As a pedestrian, by law you may be in the right, but it's no help if you're DEAD right. Also, as a pedestrian, it's vital to always walk defensively. The "law of mass tonnage" determines that the heavier vehicle always wins in the end. That applies even more when pedestrians are involved . What makes you think it will take 2 weeks for the graffiti to show up? 5:00 I give 'em one at the most.🤣
This is good, but I've already experienced enough to know that some pedestrians can be stupid or just wait to get hit by drivers, so that they can sue driver's heads off. I've watched in several places, cross the street even with the crosswalk light against them, even with the drivers already coming, they go in front of the car. Some pedestrians go slow just to irritate drivers, which you can notice, they slow down dilly dally as they cross the street, knowing someone is waiting for them to get across. Just like watching drivers, watching pedestrians cross, you can see their attitude they are to the other side.
You forgot to mention that, for pedestrians in a marked crosswalk with an electronic sign, you cannot walk across the street once you approach the intersection when the electronic sign flashes the red hand light.
I know they were thinking about changing the law on that one to allow people to cross off they could make it before the blinking stopped. Not sure if that passed.
@@HelloFromHawaii not at this time. HRS 291C-33 still the same. Once in the crosswalk and the "don't walk" flashes, complete your walk. If you approach a flashing "don't walk" sign, you cannot walk.
1. There are too many drivers running red lights or speeding up when they see a yellow light. 2. Cops don’t enforce the traffic laws making people feel they won’t get penalized further making running yellow/red lights a habit. 3. The aging baby boomers will increase accidents, sorry to say but true. I was hit by an 83yr old who ran a red light. Talking to him afterwards made me realize he had some early onset Alzeimers by his confused incorherent speech. Their reflexes wane, eyesight deteriorates, brain function reduces. They should retake driving tests once a certsin age hits.
I know that the speed cameras may start up at certain intersections. Maybe that will increase enforcement since it will be based on cameras and not individual last enforcement officers.
Honolulu is not a pedestrian city. Everyone drives and a sense of entitlement rules. In Tokyo, it's the exact opposite. Most people walk or ride bikes and Japanese drivers are overly cautious. Another extreme, crossing the street in Hanoi is a unique experience. To quote Nietzsche, "That which does not kill us makes us stronger." Mopeds buzz like hornets, cars beep, and there is rarely an opening in traffic. My Vietnamese guide said the secret is to look at the drivers, then proceed without stopping, and don't ever run. I once had to cross an 8-lane highway with no crosswalk, but there was a median strip where I could rest and catch my breath before starting out on the 2nd half. I caught an Uber back to my hotel after I got to my destination.
Most important info, LOOK BEFORE you cross, and most important, keep looking DURING crossing. In Hawaii, it's illegal to look at your phone while crossing ... I think the fine is only like $15 ... but it might just increase your liability for your own behavior... In my own observations, it's almost impossible to hit a pedestrian that's paying attention!
Try driving and walking in the Baltimore/Washington DC corridor I've lived Big Island 13 years and love the aloha we show on the road compared to the mainland Fyi. - "oh...TACOMA" ....😂😂😂😂😂😂
Even those who are paying attention they don’t care. I’ve been in the middle of crosswalks and cars just keep going thru the crosswalk as I’m standing in the middle of the road while they stare at me like I am in the wrong. Ive had to stop because the drivers have tried to run me over. I’ve had drivers blast there horns and yell pretending like you are blocking their path but as soon as they go past your car with no issues and just go off. Absolutely no aloha just creating conflict starting at 10 instead of starting at a 1. I see drivers and pedestrians alike on their phones. I see people run across the street that has a cross walk that isn’t even half a block away. I see drivers cross multiple lanes without a blinker people cutting in can’t even say thank you. I’ve had a driver attempt to push me off the road and I almost went thru the guard rail and off the hill to avoid getting hit by her car as she speeds up to cut me off at a merging lane. Drivers in Hawaii are dangerous and they don’t care in the least bit from what I’ve experienced. That being said pedestrians are just as dangerous and don’t pay attention.
Up in here where I'm stuck on da mainland, the cops LOVE to issue $1,250.00 Driving Under the Influence of Electronic Device citations. Not kidding. Look it up. It's an insanely bad news driving ticket to be on your record, too!!
I always make eye contact when someone's turning right and I'm having to cross in front of them. By the way it's so bizarre to see a husband walk on the inside of the sidewalk with his wife! I grew up hispanic that's such a huge No-No
BMW and Tesla drivers….. apparently don’t have blinkers installed in their vehicles. Then people either drive way too fast, or way too slow. People have no consideration for others whatsoever….. then everyone is always on their damn phone never paying attention. Stay off your phone while driving!!!!!!
Why like dat. Neva use to be laddat befo wen i grew up. Cellphones. Tourists in rental cars. Increase of vehicles. People in a RIDICULOUS pointless HURRY. To get WHERE 'so FAST'??!! It's ONLY an ISLAND! Oh! Yiur wife is SO correct! And........LOOKING DOWN at a cellphone BEHIND the wheel of a CAR?! Totally OMG!
Just last week, I almost got hit crossing the street at the intersection of Kalakaua and Ala Wai. Light just turned and I start walking and the car turning left, who is supposed to yield. is driving towards me. We literally are both looking at each other, but he continues to drive into the crosswalk coming inches from hitting me. Some people care more about how much you inconvenience them rather than your safety. Keep your head on a swivel at all times.
IDK, every time i see bad drivers its usually mainlanders and the fresh to the island east Asian; and usually they are townies. Every time I see a crash on the freeway 75% of the time one party to the scene is light in melanin. I just saying that as one local westsider that works and commutes to one of the buildings you just passed in the video. I do admit though, locals get one problem with stopping at the stop line first; alot of them stop and look at an intersection but their bumper already stay in the way. But trust me; I've lived on the mainland; local drive better.
I highly discourage people to move to Hawaii unless they already have a good job. Too many people move here before being set up. Hawaii is not a place to start over as a broke unemployed loser. Hawaii is only good for people with good jobs and money.
It's another blame the victim mentality video. The issue is poor street design where cars come first and speed everywhere. Roads should be designed for all users not just automobile flow.
You know, I have watch some of your videos, and for a lot of them, all you do is "monku" about living here.... You are giving a bad impression of Hawaii and the locals here. You project your own judgement of Hawaii upon all of us that were born and raised here... Move already
Believe it or not, the idea for this video was from three years ago. However, it just kept getting pushed back and pushed back, so I'm glad I'm finally able to talk about it. So many video ideas, so little time 😆
Is your wife a native of Hawai'i?
@@SuiGenerisAbbie: Chris has a terrific spouse/mother to his two sons but she born in Japan, but she's great.
@@SuiGenerisAbbie He no care about Local women; and vice versa.
This video should be shared to the tourists on their infotainment screens on the arrival planes, and to the locals at the DMV, schools, university/colleges, and whichever media.
1,000,000% AGREED!!!!!!
🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼
So true, I was in a crosswalk in Salt Lake when I was hit. That area is known as the most dangerous crosswalk in Honolulu. Two others in their 70s were seriously injured in the same location at different times. I remember the driver did not have headlights on and it was a dark vehicle. Now after 3 surgery failures I am still in pain. The driver did not see me cross. He yelled to other folks I didn't see him. You are right, be careful. I thought I was careful but crap happens.
Most of it is common sense, but I'd hope that people pay more attention when walking.
@@HelloFromHawaii agreed!
I live part of the year on Oahu and part of the year in New England. In general I find drivers on Oahu to be very polite and less agressive than in most other cities. Very few Honolulu drivers though seem to know what turn signals are and there are a lot of older frail looking typically Asian locals who are lost in space.
So as a driver, pedestrian or cyclist just be alert, be aloha, be clear in how you signal your intentions.
Mahalo for an interesting video!
Its so interesting to hear this from your perspective. Wife's family is from Ohau. I'm from Washington DC. Every time we come back to see family, I find Hawaiian drivers to be absolutely lovely. Polite, use their signals, aren't driving aggressively, mindful of pedestrians, throw up a shaka for letting them in, etc. I think you'd be horrified to see how people drive back on the mainland lol.
Hawaii drivers are better. Way less honking.
I agree with this video pretty much front to back. Being someone who has lived in a number of cities including Honolulu, I can say you are absolutely correct. I would add though, Oahu (particularly Downtown to Waikiki) has the world's worst pedestrians. There isn't even a close second.
I avoid the area almost entirely due to pedestrians. The number of people (usually tourists but not always) that just walk into dangerous positions without a clue is insane. Yes "pedestrians have the right of way" legally, but the mindset that some people have walking is so crazy.Worse though is people on bikes and electric skateboards. These people will go sidewalk to street to crosswalk to street to sidewalk without ever looking over their shoulder once just assuming "I have the right of way."
Yes Hawaii has some bad drivers, but man, it's got some BAD pedestrians too.
Good observations about pedestrians and those on bikes and scooters. At least downtown Honolulu has less people than before the pandemic so not as many walkers. And Waikiki is a tough place to drive because people aren't paying attention.
I feel like that says more about the infra than the pedestrian. If people are crossing where there isn't a crosswalk, gotta ask why. Probably because the next one is too damn far.
Also, if the e-bike guys could have a bike lane they wouldn't be mixing with traffic and causing problems.
@@meijiishin5650 this reply makes sense logically, but it’s not the case. Honolulu has crosswalks everywhere. I would actually tend to make the statement there are too many. Having people stop traffic to use a crosswalk when there is a stoplight 200 feet away is ridiculous to me.
Also Hawaii doesn’t have the best bike lanes, however, I have with my own eyes watched people ride their bikes in traffic 6 feet away from the empty bike lane. So while MAYBE there is something to do infrastructure wise, it’s not adding more crosswalks and bike lanes.
This is my opinion, no data to back it up, but there are so many people here that are here on vacation that they don’t act “normal.”
People on vacation feel totally entitled to J-walk or “bend the rules” cuz after all, they are on vacation. Then you end up with a bunch of locals seeing these people act like that and go “well if they are going to break the rules I’m not going to burden myself by waiting here properly” and boom… breakdown of the whole system.
Plus homeless people…. Lots and lots and lots and lots of homeless people.
@@ChancyC If you're just talking about Waikiki, then yea pedestrians are really careless there. High concentration of people unfamiliar with the area.
@@meijiishin5650 yea my initial comment points out I’m really specifically talking about the area from downtown to Waikiki.
Outside of that area the pedestrian problem becomes significantly less of an issue. Sure you’ll still have accidents randomly all over, but that’s not usually due to the problems outlined in this video. Those end up being speeding drunk people or homeless people in the streets.
I am very glad your mom is getting better from her injuries. I do know what that is like. I was in a pedestrian/vehicle accident last year, being hit from the back while I was in the crosswalk with the light. I didn’t see the driver coming up behind me-he drove diagonally thru the crosswalk to get to a parking lot entrance. I was walking southbound and hit hard enough that I was face down on the pavement with my head pointed directly west. The driver was cited for failure to yield pedestrian right of way. I was seriously injured, surgery and hospitalization for 13 days and staying at a rehab center for 3 months. 19 months later I am still recovering from my injuries.
In a personal injury suit, when you are deposed, one of the first questions you will be asked is “what color was the walk light when you entered the crosswalk?”
Be careful at night especially, wear clothes that are easier to see and don’t count on the driver to do the right thing. I hate to say that but I have seen so many impatient drivers since then-you just have to be defensive as a pedestrian. Always pay attention, and look behind you even if it feels overly cautious.
Mahalo for sharing what happened to you. I'm sure the physical therapy is tough. Yeah, I try to walk defensively and always look at the cars. Can never tell what some drivers might do
In Honolulu it is a ticketable offense to be looking at your phone while crossing in a crosswalk. Also known as Bill 6 or the Distracted Walking Law, the law makes it very clear that the only legal reason to look at a cell phone while in the process of crossing a street or a highway is to call 911.
Too bad the police doesn’t have enough time or personnel enforce this law.
Pedestrian safety is a two way street. Awareness of both parties are important and lifesaving. Got off the cellphone when crossing a street!
Very true 🤙
I remember when we moved to Oahu and I saw a minimum speed limit posted on the H1 and I was shocked... I'd never seen that on a freeway before!!! One thing I love, and hate, is that people are so generous and kind to allow others right of way out of parking lots and other places... It's so nice to do, but also so dangerous.... There were many times when driving on a road, where we had the right of way, and the driver in front of me would come to a stop out of nowhere, to allow someone to exit a parking lot. It's dangerous because you're not expecting to have to slam on your brakes for no reason when traffic is flowing and you have a green light ahead.
The Las Vegas strip is a good example. "Look at me, I'm a tourist, everyone encourages me to be an idiot! Lalalalallaa" *runs into traffic to take a selfie*
😆
Thanks for your comments on awareness for both walkers and drivers, with everyone carrying phones & tablets, worst inventions for today's people IMHO. An accident will definitely cause PTSD especially for a senior citizens. WAKE UP DRIVERS & WALKERS turn off the phone & be alert. Even if you don't die in a accident it will affect your life😮😊
🤙
Riding a bike is dangerous..many hit and run.
Drivers yell get off the road.
If on sidewalks, they yell get off the sidewalks.
Yeah, biking in Town is dangerous. Even with the bike lanes
Everytime I see a "slow down this ain't the mainland" bumper sticker is just ridiculous and funny😂
😆 lots of locals driving fast
Good subject. I’m a senior live in downtown and walk every day. I wish drivers would READ the signs! No one seems to do that now days. Some times very dangerous crossing the streets, exactly like you say, people need to pay attention to what they are doing… pedestrians and motorists. Getting bad with cyclists, especially the ebikes, they think they have the right of way on the sidewalks! Anyway good topic, mahalo for letting me vent!
This is true everywhere though. worse on the mainland. Big problem with Hawaii roads is that the lanes are so narrow mostly on the freeways
It's worse in Hawaii. Passive aggressive drivers mixed with fresh from Asia drivers
The lanes are actually wider in some areas of the freeway. But some of those neighborhood streets are so tight and lazy sidewalks.
The ones you really have to watch out for are off-duty police officers dui/dwi . . . No, that's next to impossible because they often rear end victims or run red lights at full speed. And, no, you will NOT get any recourse, justice or compensation. That is, if you survive such a collision.
👠 simple to do, but so sad that people don't ! Also an extra tip - I don't know if it's a "generational" or "southern" thing, but I was raised that the man/male walks closer to the curb (and the girl/woman) walk on the inside! In case a vehicle (or whatever), should run up on the curb! It's a form of chivalry😎. Stay safe🌸
I think that's generational. My wife let me walk on the inside because of the lighting for the video 😆
Pedestrians need to be mindful but we really need driver education and to move away from our car centered mentality . I observe that drivers do not stop for pedestrians in crosswalks-I’ve read about creative ways other countries States are making it safer for pedestrians we need a big focus on urban design-
Ending Labor day weekend, My family had a pretty good time in Oahu for 9 days and visited pretty much all the places we wanted to visit. We rode bus for the first half and rented an SUV for the remaining days. Yes, one thing I was very surprised of was the sheer number of cars on the road. Even on small roads, cars were everywhere. One second I saw no cars behind me, the next second some car is on my rear wondering why I am not going fast enough.
Mahalo for sharing your observation. Yeah, Oahu has a lot of cars. Was it a truck that was following you close?
@@HelloFromHawaii Actually it was a sedan at some shopping center. But we drove all around Oahu. It was still fun and memorable overall. I once dropped off my wife at a donut shop because I could not find parking and parked further out and waited for wife to return. While I was waiting in that small street, I was surprised to see constant flow of vehicle traffic in that residential street. I thought "Man this island has so many drivers". But again, I really enjoyed my time in Oahu. I want to go back again for sure.
I really hope DOT doesn’t add more raised crosswalks or speed humps. I drive to Kailua through Waimanalo ~5x a week and there are 10 speed humps I go over. They slow down traffic especially when there’s a lot of traffic or a big vehicle. The trucks I drive have longer wheel bases and need to slow down to 10-15mph to go over the humps just like the bus or handivan. When 1 person slows down that much it slows down people behind them. A few of the raised crosswalks have the Hawk flashing lights that pedestrians can use to cross safely which I think would be much better than raised crosswalks and speed humps. And honestly I’ve seen more people jay walking than using crosswalks in waimanalo anyway.
Just adding my own thoughts though.
They've installed several raised crosswalks in Town now. They aren't too bad, but the ones in Kalihi are high.
Thanks for the useful video. I'm unsure whether the pedestrian-automobile relationship is worse in Honolulu than in other cities. It seems to be a tossup. However, outside of Downtown and Kaka'ako (and the wealthier suburbs where people don't walk in any case), there often aren't any sidewalks, which makes walking very dangerous.
The lack of safety is exacerbated by the apparently common idea that traffic rules are optional: for example, try standing at the corner of King and Punchbowl facing Honolulu Hale during the afternoon rush hour and you will see one or two cars run almost every other red light on King, On Prospect (Punchbowl), cars will actually accelerate and weave around you when you are in the crosswalk, as if it were some sort of automotive slalom game. And then there are the children bouncing in the back of pickup trucks without seats or restraints ....
I agree that many places don't have sidewalks. I grew up on a street that didn't. Hard to walk in the neighborhood when cars are parked on the grass.
And yes, Punchbowl is a crazy place to drive and walk.
yea those areas are treacherous lol
This applies to Big Island as well. Lots of deaths here. Almost seen someone in a wheelchair get hit one time.
I used to bike/walk to work in town. I literally saw a pedestrian walking in a crosswalk with the walk sign on get hit one afternoon. Lucky for them they were right in front of the hospital and an empty ambulance happened to be driving by.
Also didn’t trust the two-way bike lanes on a one way street (King). I feel like not a lot of drivers were aware that they had to look both ways before turning.
That bike lane on King is scary. It's tough for cars to see because of parked cars.
This is a really helpful video! Thanks for the tips and advice. Really great information here
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The worst crossing is south St and Auahi. It’s a crosswalk without traffic lights. Nighttime is the worst because people love to blast down South st when it looks clear.
When you are making a vlog about pedestrian safety tips downtown - you know you're in trouble.
When you are making a vlog about pedestrian safety tips downtown, and one of the first t-sections you cross greets you with screeching tires - you know you're in trouble.
When you talk about polarized sunglasses being a virtue - that is, being able to look through windshields and see whether drivers are even looking at the road - you know you're in trouble.
When road signs are frequently banged up - making them hard to see and tending to stay that way probably because people have long stopped bothering to repair or replace them - you know you're in trouble.
When the city makes crosswalk bridges that infrequent or in such bad locations that no one will use them but the government thinks if they make those bridges, people will use them no matter what - you know you're in trouble.
When you're walking downtown and the roads are too narrow, the urban planning too bad, the drivers even worse, and construction galore - you know you should have stayed home.
So many times i been wanting to cross and jump ontop of a cars hood thats stopped on the crosswalk and make a statement.
At least some drivers try to reverse to not block the crosswalk 😆
Iaorana from Tahiti 🇵🇫 thanks for the tips I'll keep that in mind whenever I'll go to Hawaii✨✨
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I would rather DRive in Hawaii then California (where I live now) any day of the week! The ONLY complaint about Hawaii Drivers that I always had, was that many drive too SLOW. This, can actually be just as hazardous as someone who drives too fast in my opinion.
Some drive slow in Hawaii, especially in rain and neighbor Islands. But Oahu has some fast drivers.
@@HelloFromHawaii yes, speeding is getting worse in all 50 states. CAlif has always been bad, but its become OFF THE Rails here.
Unfortunately, some people don't follow the rules, like you said the "No Right Turn on Red." I agree, you have to be on the alert when you're walking to see what the cars are going to do, even if you have the right of way. My dad used to say, you may be right, still dead, but right.
Part of it is tourists that somehow think it is fine to do whatever they want because they are on vacation. Being here and/ or visiting doesn’t mean being inconsiderate. Good tips and good video… thanks.
And part of the responsibility is on locals too
@@HelloFromHawaii too true... My mom... Sometimes.... Lol
@@HelloFromHawaii I agree it takes the tourist and the locals to pay attention. In NYC tourist tend to walk slow, in the middle of the sidewalk and are looking up. But crossing the street is like a start of a race and you gotta move LOL.
PS It would be nice to put a mural up on those walls instead of just the grey stones.
Thanks for the tips! Going to Honolulu next month. 😄
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- So many pedestrian cross the street with such disregard for vehicles. My parents told me when I was young to pay attention when I cross the street, look in both directions at least twice. And always to remember that a vehicle is to respected, because of it's thousand of pounds it has the ability to hurt, disable us for life and to the extreme, cause us death.
- People who jaywalk in Hawaii can get a minimum fine of around $150.
- Drivers who's vehicle enter the crosswalk while there are pedestrians within them can receive a $180 fine.
- People need to pay attention while walking or driving on our roadways. A moment of distraction can lead to a lifetime of misery.
News flash; American drivers drive like ka ka (saying it politely). Mostly because a great big chunk of licensed drivers really don't drive a lot and their skills are terrible. Watch people parallel park in a city or back up to things. Generally, professional drivers are a lot better but they don't get a total pass either. Cops, EMS and firemen are generally good drivers but there are exceptions, usually cops. as a retired State Trooper I don't say that lightly. In Honolulu in the 1980s as a cop I wondered if asking the question about hydroplaning had been omitted from the written exam. Heavy rain on Oahu and you take your life in your hands. And to be fair, in defense, the worst times to drive in Alaska are just before the roads get icy and again in the spring when they thaw during the day. Apparent understanding the concept of following too closely and stopping distance were eliminated from the AK DMV test as well. Good drivers drive defensively, it should be the manta of pedestrians too.
Mahalo for sharing 🤙
This is everywhere, not just Hawaii. I remember a long time ago, a lot of elderly people were getting hit on the Pali in Nuuanu.
I should also add, that pedestrians should stop wearing dark colors in the dark. I don't know why 80% of pedestrians at night wear dark colors. It's already hard to see a pedestrian at night, but then you wear dark clothes and I only see you right when you are in front of my headlights. One last thing, is that pedestrians in neighborhoods that walk in the road on the incoming lanes. We can't see you when we take a corner because we are not expecting a pedestrian in the road. Walk on the sidewalks. I know the up and down of driveways isn't fun, but it's not fun being hit by a car either.
I remember that happening on Pali. I think it's why they lowered the speed limit. Is it 25 mph now?
At traffic lights you can start walking when the walk symbol appears but you gotta make sure ALL the cars are completely stopped. Do not enter the crosswalk once the lights start flashing (this is the biggest violation that I see). At crosswalks without lights,. again make sure ALL the cars are completely stopped before stepping off the curb. As you cross you have to be constantly on the lookout for vehicles that are approaching to make sure they see you. PUT CELL PHONES IN YOUR PURSE/POCKET!
As a pedestrian, by law you may be in the right, but it's no help if you're DEAD right. Also, as a pedestrian, it's vital to always walk defensively. The "law of mass tonnage" determines that the heavier vehicle always wins in the end. That applies even more when pedestrians are involved
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What makes you think it will take 2 weeks for the graffiti to show up? 5:00 I give 'em one at the most.🤣
Lol. It's going to be hard to paint over it because of the rocky design and texture 😆
This is good, but I've already experienced enough to know that some pedestrians can be stupid or just wait to get hit by drivers, so that they can sue driver's heads off. I've watched in several places, cross the street even with the crosswalk light against them, even with the drivers already coming, they go in front of the car. Some pedestrians go slow just to irritate drivers, which you can notice, they slow down dilly dally as they cross the street, knowing someone is waiting for them to get across. Just like watching drivers, watching pedestrians cross, you can see their attitude they are to the other side.
I haven't seen pedestrians purposely walk slow, but I wouldn't be surprised.
You forgot to mention that, for pedestrians in a marked crosswalk with an electronic sign, you cannot walk across the street once you approach the intersection when the electronic sign flashes the red hand light.
I know they were thinking about changing the law on that one to allow people to cross off they could make it before the blinking stopped. Not sure if that passed.
@@HelloFromHawaii not at this time. HRS 291C-33 still the same. Once in the crosswalk and the "don't walk" flashes, complete your walk. If you approach a flashing "don't walk" sign, you cannot walk.
1:42 Bless you!
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1. There are too many drivers running red lights or speeding up when they see a yellow light.
2. Cops don’t enforce the traffic laws making people feel they won’t get penalized further making running yellow/red lights a habit.
3. The aging baby boomers will increase accidents, sorry to say but true. I was hit by an 83yr old who ran a red light. Talking to him afterwards made me realize he had some early onset Alzeimers by his confused incorherent speech. Their reflexes wane, eyesight deteriorates, brain function reduces. They should retake driving tests once a certsin age hits.
I know that the speed cameras may start up at certain intersections. Maybe that will increase enforcement since it will be based on cameras and not individual last enforcement officers.
Honolulu is not a pedestrian city. Everyone drives and a sense of entitlement rules. In Tokyo, it's the exact opposite. Most people walk or ride bikes and Japanese drivers are overly cautious. Another extreme, crossing the street in Hanoi is a unique experience. To quote Nietzsche, "That which does not kill us makes us stronger." Mopeds buzz like hornets, cars beep, and there is rarely an opening in traffic. My Vietnamese guide said the secret is to look at the drivers, then proceed without stopping, and don't ever run. I once had to cross an 8-lane highway with no crosswalk, but there was a median strip where I could rest and catch my breath before starting out on the 2nd half. I caught an Uber back to my hotel after I got to my destination.
especially the foreign speaking taxi vans that merge in and out of lanes and run red lights around ward and keeamoku side
Most important info, LOOK BEFORE you cross, and most important, keep looking DURING crossing.
In Hawaii, it's illegal to look at your phone while crossing ... I think the fine is only like $15 ... but it might just increase your liability for your own behavior...
In my own observations, it's almost impossible to hit a pedestrian that's paying attention!
Great suggestion to keep looking as you cross.
Try driving and walking in the Baltimore/Washington DC corridor
I've lived Big Island 13 years and love the aloha we show on the road compared to the mainland
Fyi. - "oh...TACOMA" ....😂😂😂😂😂😂
Even those who are paying attention they don’t care. I’ve been in the middle of crosswalks and cars just keep going thru the crosswalk as I’m standing in the middle of the road while they stare at me like I am in the wrong. Ive had to stop because the drivers have tried to run me over. I’ve had drivers blast there horns and yell pretending like you are blocking their path but as soon as they go past your car with no issues and just go off. Absolutely no aloha just creating conflict starting at 10 instead of starting at a 1. I see drivers and pedestrians alike on their phones. I see people run across the street that has a cross walk that isn’t even half a block away. I see drivers cross multiple lanes without a blinker people cutting in can’t even say thank you. I’ve had a driver attempt to push me off the road and I almost went thru the guard rail and off the hill to avoid getting hit by her car as she speeds up to cut me off at a merging lane. Drivers in Hawaii are dangerous and they don’t care in the least bit from what I’ve experienced. That being said pedestrians are just as dangerous and don’t pay attention.
Up in here where I'm stuck on da mainland, the cops LOVE to issue $1,250.00 Driving Under the Influence of Electronic Device citations.
Not kidding. Look it up.
It's an insanely bad news driving ticket to be on your record, too!!
that lady looks SUS ... ready to pick your pocket!
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I always make eye contact when someone's turning right and I'm having to cross in front of them. By the way it's so bizarre to see a husband walk on the inside of the sidewalk with his wife! I grew up hispanic that's such a huge No-No
My wife let me walk on the inside for this video because of the lighting 😄
@@HelloFromHawaii ❤️
BMW and Tesla drivers….. apparently don’t have blinkers installed in their vehicles.
Then people either drive way too fast, or way too slow. People have no consideration for others whatsoever….. then everyone is always on their damn phone never paying attention. Stay off your phone while driving!!!!!!
I noticed less blinkers being used with Teslas. Is that an automatic feature?
@@HelloFromHawaii you would think with the lack of. 🤣
Boss, tell me you never just say “Hanalulu” 😂🤦🏽♂️
Why like dat. Neva use to be laddat befo wen i grew up.
Cellphones. Tourists in rental cars.
Increase of vehicles.
People in a RIDICULOUS pointless HURRY. To get WHERE
'so FAST'??!!
It's ONLY an ISLAND!
Oh! Yiur wife is SO correct!
And........LOOKING DOWN at a cellphone BEHIND the wheel of a CAR?!
Totally OMG!
Lots of people seem to be in a hurry. Not sure why. Only going to get stuck in more traffic 😄
Just last week, I almost got hit crossing the street at the intersection of Kalakaua and Ala Wai. Light just turned and I start walking and the car turning left, who is supposed to yield. is driving towards me. We literally are both looking at each other, but he continues to drive into the crosswalk coming inches from hitting me. Some people care more about how much you inconvenience them rather than your safety. Keep your head on a swivel at all times.
Always assume drivers in HI are bad drivers…which is true.
IDK, every time i see bad drivers its usually mainlanders and the fresh to the island east Asian; and usually they are townies. Every time I see a crash on the freeway 75% of the time one party to the scene is light in melanin. I just saying that as one local westsider that works and commutes to one of the buildings you just passed in the video. I do admit though, locals get one problem with stopping at the stop line first; alot of them stop and look at an intersection but their bumper already stay in the way. But trust me; I've lived on the mainland; local drive better.
Great points. Lots of locals have trouble with the rolling stops
And not only aunties! Lost tourists. Partying teens. Texting anybodies. Watch out for ‘em!
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Like u want others to slow down so I can go faster
actually i think hawaii isnt too bad its a bit slow and roads are tight but its not as bad as where i am at now .
Where are you now?
@@HelloFromHawaii Missouri. Saint Louis. Depends where you are at they don't even stop for red lights they use it as yield signs
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EV's can sneak up on you
Don’t move to Hawaii or any place that has problems like it if you have no reason to seriously just don’t do it
Hawaii isn't all that bad
I highly discourage people to move to Hawaii unless they already have a good job. Too many people move here before being set up. Hawaii is not a place to start over as a broke unemployed loser.
Hawaii is only good for people with good jobs and money.
@@HelloFromHawaiiYou project that sentiment in your vidoes though
Bay area drivers are horrible as well. Not only in Honolulu. It’s part of the culture we live in these days sadly.
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It's another blame the victim mentality video. The issue is poor street design where cars come first and speed everywhere. Roads should be designed for all users not just automobile flow.
yes hawaii has terrible signage, on ramps to off ramps-confusing and abrupt so tourists often stop right at the start lol
You know, I have watch some of your videos, and for a lot of them, all you do is "monku" about living here.... You are giving a bad impression of Hawaii and the locals here. You project your own judgement of Hawaii upon all of us that were born and raised here... Move already