Hawaii Auto Insurance - (HI)

Knowing the regulations in your state for auto insurance is imperative when shopping for a new policy. Each state has different requirements, so it’s important to realize that your premiums could rise or fall depending on where you live. All states require some form of insurance. Be sure you know what’s required in your state, whether it’s liability coverage, documentation requirements or the penalties for failing to comply. Consider competitive quotes and ask questions before settling on a policy. An educated consumer will find ways to save money and receive the best coverage to fit their needs.

Auto Insurance Laws in Hawaii

• Hawaii is a “no-fault” state: This means your auto insurance company will pay for injuries to you and your passengers up to the personal injury coverage outlined in your policy. “No-fault” also means you can’t sue or be sued, unless there are serious injuries. Remember that “no-fault” does not apply to vehicles or property. The driver deemed at fault is responsible for paying for damage to vehicles or property; “no-fault” in Hawaii covers bodily injury only.
• Hawaii has mandatory coverage requirements: In Hawaii, you must meet minimum standards for personal injury and damage liability. Coverages have to provide at least $10,000 per person for personal injury, $20,000 per person/$40,000 per accident bodily injury, and $10,000 per occurrence property damage liability.
• Ask your insurance coverage about uninsured motorist coverage: You have the right to decline uninsured motorist coverage in writing, or you may purchase a minimum of $20,000 per person uninsured motorist coverage, which will pay for serious injury or death if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance. Think seriously about declining this coverage; it could be a costly decision.
• All Hawaii car owners must have auto insurance: State law in Hawaii mandates that your vehicle have at least minimum coverage. You are required to retain proof of insurance in your car at all times.
• There are penalties for failure to get insurance: You could be ticketed or fined if you fail to provide proof of insurance – an insurance card – when requested. If you fail to get coverage for your vehicle, you are required to surrender the car’s registration and license plates.

Tips for Auto Insurance

Anyone searching for auto insurance should understand that state requirements are for minimum coverage, and it’s likely that you’ll want to obtain coverage that far exceeds the mandate. For example, in Hawaii you must carry coverage for at least $10,000 in property damage; most experts think this amount should be raised to $100,000.

Your policy’s liability coverage amounts detail the maximum your insurance provider will pay in case of an accident. If you are held responsible for $40,000, but your policy only covers $10,000, you will be responsible to pay for the remaining $30,000.

Consider creative ways to save money on your insurance premiums. If you have multiple cars, drivers or a homeowners policy, you could save overall by combining your policies with one insurance company.

Be sure to seek out competitive quotes from multiple insurance companies to be sure you’re getting the best coverage available. Always ask questions and review terms before deciding on a policy.

Department Of Hawaii (HI) State Government That Regulates Car Insurance Rates:
Web Site: www.hawaii.gov/dcca/areas/ins
Email: insurance@dcca.hawaii.gov

How To Contact Directly:
Physical Address:
Hawaii Insurance Div.
King Kalakaua Building
335 Merchant Street, Rm. 213
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Phone: 1-808-586-2790

Mailing Address:
Hawaii Insurance Div.
P.O. Box 3614
Honolulu, Hawaii 96811

Hawaii (HI) Mandatory Auto Insurance Minimums

• Liability: 20/40/10 = Bodily Injury Individual/Bodily Injury Total Per Accident/Property Damage
• Other Mandatory Insurance: Personal Injury Protection -- No-Fault State
• Regulations Regarding Proof of Insurance: Proof Required - If Involved In An Accident, If Stopped By Authorities When Driving
• Penalties For Not Carrying Mandatory Insurance: Fine up to $500