Hawaii is an excellent destination for all sorts of enjoyable activities, such as biking, hiking, snorkeling, swimming, horseback riding and more. Although many trips to Hawaii yield nothing but wonderful memories, some trips result in serious accidents and injuries. Not only will an injury ruin your trip, but it may even affect the rest of your life. Fortunately, if your accident was the result of negligence, the party responsible for the accident may owe you damages. Below are ten of the most common accidents that may entitle you to compensation in Hawaii.
1. Biking Accidents
Because bicycles must share the road with motor vehicles, bicyclists are often involved in severe traffic accidents. In cases where the motorist is at fault, he may owe money to the bicyclist.
2. Watercraft Collisions
When sailboats, jet skis or other watercraft collide, tourists may sustain injuries. In such cases, the operator at fault may owe damages to the injured parties.
3. Slip and Falls
Slip and falls can occur virtually anywhere, from hotel lobbies to hiking trails. If the fall occurs in an area that is meant to be safe, such as a public walkway, the injured person may be entitled to compensation.
4. Helicopter/ Airplane Accidents
Helicopter and airplane accidents are often the fault of the aircraft’s owner, management company or manufacturer. When tourists are injured because of negligence, they are often entitled to monetary damages.
5. Scuba Diving Accidents
When tourists go scuba diving, they rely on their tour guides to protect them from danger and injury. When tour guides fail to do so, the victim may be able to sue.
6. Horseback Riding Accidents
Tourists who are involved in horseback riding accidents may be entitled to compensation if the horse wasn’t properly trained, if the terrain was unsafe or if the saddle wasn’t properly cinched.
7. Skydiving Accidents
Skydiving accidents typically occur when parachutes don’t open or otherwise malfunction. In such situations, the manufacturer or tour guide may be responsible.
8. Falls from High Places
Hawaii is home to many tall cliffs and viewpoints that many tourists seek out on their trips. If a faulty handrail or unstable ground results in a fall, the injured person may be able to file a lawsuit against the party responsible.
9. Drowning
Drownings and near-drownings are far too common in Hawaii. Some of these accidents may entitle the victim to damages.
10. Traffic Accidents
As in any other state, tourists visiting Hawaii are sometimes involved in traffic accidents. If the tourist isn’t at fault, he may be able to file a lawsuit.
If you or a loved one was involved in an accident in Hawaii, you should contact a qualified personal injury attorney as quickly as possible. Because your accident took place in another state, filing a claim can be complicated. However, with the help of the right legal team, you may be able to obtain reimbursement for medical bills and lost wages. If your injuries are severe or the responsible party was significantly negligent, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. Contact our firm today to learn more.