January 4, 2007
As a result of police getting strict on drivers who didn’t yield at crosswalks, the number of pedestrian fatalities in Hawaii dropped in 2006.  According to the state department of Transportation, there was a decrease from the 36 deaths in 2005, to 29 across the state in 2006.  Of the 29 deaths, 19 pedestrians were killed on Oahu compared to the 26 that died in 2005.  The total for this past year was the lowest since 2003, when statewide statistics were at 23 pedestrian deaths.  Hawaii still had the 11^th highest pedestrian fatality rate in the country according to other statistics, which is an improvement compared to 2004 when it was ranked fourth in the nation.  Police stated the decline was a result of increased patrols and enforcement, as well as educational outreach efforts that were put into action. Transportation Department spokesman Scott Ishikawa said the public was made aware of Hawaii’s pedestrian laws becoming tougher, requiring drivers to stop and yield to pedestrians.  Approximately 2,157 citations were issued by the Honolulu Police Department to motorists and pedestrians for violating street-crossing laws.  Also being targeted are Jaywalkers who do not abide by traffic signals.  Traffic Division’s Susan Dowseet said Police are instructed to take enforcement action or educate the violator.  The state’s Walk Wise Hawaii education program is gaining recognition for its increasing awareness of traffic safety.  The program spent approximately $100,000 for educational materials and public service announcements.  Spokesman Russell Pang stated that Gov. Linda Lingle is expected to introduce pedestrian-friendly legislation that may involve toughening penalties.  As of now, drivers are fined $97 for violating crosswalk laws and jaywalkers $70.