Spotlight on Hawaii

DRIVING TIPS

Seat Belts:  Buckle up; seat belt usage is mandatory for front seat passengers.  Unlike other states, police can ticket drivers solely for this infraction.

Toddler Seats:  Children under 4 years of age must ride in a child's safety seat.  Rent them at car rental agencies.

Motorcycles and Mopeds:  Drivers and passengers must wear eye protection, day and night.  Those under 18 must wear helmets on motorcycles.  Mopeds shouldn't be on freeways.

Don't Drink on the Go:  Hawaii has an open container law.  It's prohibited to consume or possess an open alcoholic beverage on any public roadway or sidewalk.

Drunk Driving:  Hawaii is more stringent in its definition of who is a "drunk" driver.  Those aged 21 and older, with a 0.08 percent blood alcohol level or more, are considered "under the influence of alcohol."  Those under 21 are considered drunk with .02 percent.  Most states use a 0.10 definition.  Any person who operates a motor vehicle in Hawaii gives his implied consent to be tested for drunk driving.

Right Turn on Red:  Unless noted otherwise, it's okay.

Show Some Aloha :  Motorists in Hawaii pride themselves on showing aloha spirit.  Allow traffic to merge and don't angrily honk your horn.

Rush Hour Traffic:  If possible, avoid travel between 6 – 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 – 6:00 p.m.

Bicycles:  Cyclists enjoy basically the same rights and privileges as motorists.  They are forbidden to use highways and can't travel a road when an adjacent bike path is provided.  On the road, cyclists must ride single file and travel as near to the right edge as practical.  They are required to obey traffic signals and other traffic laws.

Hawaii Drivers' Manuals :  Available at Longs Drugs, $4.