Every year, there are some 10,000 serious auto accidents in the state of Hawaii alone. Traffic accidents in Hawaii are one of the most common causes of injury and death. In fact, an estimated 12,000 people are injured in auto accidents in Hawaii every year, and of those, between 120 and 150 result in fatality. Unfortunately, many of these accidents are due to speeding or another form of reckless driving. No matter how safe of a driver you are, there is always a chance you could be involved in an accident. Most personal injury cases stem from the fact that, while one person was driving responsibly, another was not, and caused serious injury to the other and possibly him or herself. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact an attorney …show more content…
• If the victim suffered serious or permanent injuries, such as loss of limb or body function, permanent disfigurement, or permanent change to emotional and mental state, the plaintiff may be entitled to external rewards. Plaintiffs who do not meet this criteria will not be allowed to step outside of the no-fault system. Plaintiffs who do will need legal representation to file a personal injury suit and claim negligence. Negligence occurs when a person fails to act with a reasonable amount of care, resulting in injury to another. In an auto accident, negligence may be indicated if the other driver was driving recklessly, distracted, under the influence, or in any other way exhibiting irresponsible behavior. In personal injury suits, the state of Hawaii allows for victims to receive compensation based on "comparative negligence." The plaintiff may claim damages if he or she is found to be less than 50% at fault. The compensation will be reduced by the at-fault percentage of the plaintiff. For example, if the plaintiff is found to be 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, he or she will be eligible to receive the remaining amount of 80% (or