Maui Bicycling League calls for enhanced road safety amid rising traffic fatalities

In light of a troublesome 17% increase in Hawai’i’s traffic fatalities compared to 2023, the Maui Bicycling League calls for increased vigilance on Maui’s roads.  

Organization leaders say they are inspired by Hawai’i’s ancient Law of the Splintered Paddle, established by King Kamehameha in 1797 and later enshrined in the state constitution, guaranteeing every individual’s right to safe travel on Hawaii’s roads. Today this extends to protecting all vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, organization leaders said.

Hawai’i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen emphasized the collective responsibility for road safety saying, “Making choices to speed or use your phone can forever change your life or the life of someone on the road with you. We all need to work together to extend the number of days without a death on the road.”

“While only juveniles under 16 are required to wear helmets in Maui County, we stress the vital importance of helmets for all cyclists to significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of a crash,” according to the Maui Bicycling League. “When riding after dusk, lights and reflectors are required by law and extremely important in maintaining visibility. We also remind motorists of the essential ‘3-foot law’, mandating a minimum distance of three feet when passing bicycles, to ensure safer coexistence on our roads.”

“We urge all road users to consider the diversity of those who share our roads—many cyclists and pedestrians are commuting to work, trying to preserve the environment, improve their health, or manage economic challenges. They deserve our respect and attention,” according to the Maui Bicycling League.

For detailed guidelines on safe cycling and pedestrian practices, and sharing the road, please visit: Hawaii’s Guide to Safe Bicycling.