Everything You Need to Know About Auto Insurance in Hawaii

Swaying palm trees, curling waves, dormant or rumbling volcanoes, and Polynesian traditions all come to mind at the mention of Hawaii. Its 137 volcanic islands stretch across the Pacific Ocean, with its lush beaches and scenic waterfalls.

Home to more than 1.4 million residents, Hawaii is the youngest member of the Union, becoming a U.S. state in 1959. From surfers to tourists, countless visitors travel to the Hawaiian islands every year to take in its natural beauty, welcomed by the traditional greeting: aloha.

If you’re looking for an affordable auto policy to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road, InsureOne expert agents can help you find the best auto insurance at a great rate in Hawaii.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Hawaii?

These premiums are much lower than national averages, which stand at around $2,014 and $622 for full and minimum coverage, respectively. That means drivers in the Aloha State save between $739 and $278 on their policies annually.

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What Does Full Coverage vs. Minimum Liability Mean?

A full coverage policy provides state-mandated liability coverage along with collision and comprehensive insurance, which kick in if you’re involved in a crash or if your car is damaged in a weather event. Minimum liability coverage only provides the state-mandated amounts needed to treat injuries and repair property in a wreck.

Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Hawaii

For a comparison of the average monthly premiums drivers pay in different cities across the state, check out our breakdown below.

City Full Coverage Insurance Liability Insurance Coverage
Honolulu $109 $34
Hilo $117 $34
Pearl City $109 $34
Kailua $109 $34
Mililani Town $109 $34

Our average monthly premiums by city are based on the following methodology: male, age 30, lowest possible legal coverage allowed by Hawaii.

How Bundling Your Vehicle and Homeowners Insurance Can Save You Money in Hawaii

Bundling coverage is the most effective way to lower your annual premiums, reducing them by around 5% to 25%. This especially benefits homeowners, who typically pay more for coverage than renters do.

What Types of Auto Discounts Are Available in Hawaii?

You can save money on your premiums if you’re eligible for one or more driver discounts. For example, bundling your homeowner’s insurance and auto coverage can lower your premium by as much as 25% if you own a house and two cars.

Here are some of the available discounts:

  • Good driver
  • Military
  • Anti-theft
  • Loyalty
  • Defensive driver
  • Paperless billing
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Hawaii Car Insurance Laws

Hawaii has a 20/40/10 minimum mandatory liability coverage requirement, and policies must include $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP). Here’s a closer look at what this means.

What Are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Hawaii?

Hawaii is a no-fault state. This means your insurance pays for your injuries and damages, regardless of who caused the wreck. In Hawaii, a basic policy must provide 20/40/10 liability coverage to pay for crash-related costs. That means you’ll have:

  • $15,000 to cover the medical treatment or funeral expenses of one person involved
  • $40,000 to cover treatment for injuries or deaths if two or more persons are involved
  • $10,000 to pay for property damage

Because Hawaii is a no-fault state, your policy must also include $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP). This coverage pays your medical bills if you’re injured in a car accident, regardless of fault.

What Is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Hawaii?

Driving without insurance can land you a $500 fine and require completion of 75 to 100 hours of community service on a first offense. Your driver’s license will also be suspended for three months or until you provide proof of insurance, usually with an SR-22, making your premium skyrocket.

Breaking the state’s insurance requirement laws a second time or more within five years will cost you between $1,500 and $5,000 in fines. The community service you will need to serve will also increase, rising to 200 to 275 hours. Regarding your driver’s license, the DMV will suspend it for a year and will restore it once you provide proof of insurance. Lastly, multiple convictions during a five-year period usually carry a jail sentence of at least 30 days.

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What Factors Does Hawaii Law Allow in Determining Your Premiums?

Insurers are allowed by state law to calculate your premium based on several factors. Some of the most important ones are:

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Location
  • Credit history
  • Marital status
  • Driving record and experience
  • Vehicle type

What Happens If I Damage Property?

If you crash into another vehicle, a neighbor’s fence, or a road sign, for example, and have a full coverage policy, your insurer will pay for your repairs. In Hawaii, a basic policy covers up to $10,000 in property damages. If the damage you cause exceeds that amount, you’ll have to pay the rest out of pocket.

What Is Driving Like in Hawaii?

While populated cities and towns on the islands are typically level, the Hawaiian islands have rocky terrain that can make driving a bit tricky, especially during the wet season, which runs from October to April. Roads can be slick, and you should take caution on any of the islands’ roads.

Because of its tropical setting, Hawaii is prone to experience hurricanes, as well as massive fires and volcanic activity, which can all create treacherous to catastrophic road conditions on the islands.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Hawaii?

In 2021, 94 fatal crashes in Hawaii resulted in 94 deaths. The following chart shows the number of fatal crashes in Honolulu and other locations across the state and its islands that year.

City Fatal Crashes in 2021
Honolulu 18
Hilo 3
Pearl City 1
Kailua 1
Mililani Town 1
Kapolei 3
Kihei 4
Nanakuli 3
Wailua 1
Kapa’a 1
Kea’au 3
Kailua Kona 2
Pahoa 3

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Are in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, slightly more than 9% of drivers don’t have auto coverage. In 2019, it ranked number 34 among states with the highest number of uninsured or underinsured motorists.

Get the Best Car Insurance in Hawaii Today

We will save you time and money by researching quotes and presenting you with several options that meet your needs. Get a quote online, visit us at an office near you, or call us at (800) 836-2240 for a quote.