Bill > SB1115

This bill aims to enhance transportation safety by making several key changes to driver's licensing and traffic violation penalties. First, the bill requires driver's license examinations to specifically test applicants' knowledge about the dangers that larger motor vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, pose to pedestrians and bicyclists, noting that vehicles with hoods higher than 40 inches are 45% more likely to cause fatal pedestrian injuries. Second, the bill mandates that individuals who commit excessive speeding (driving 30 miles per hour over the speed limit or 80 miles per hour or more) or who are habitually operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant must retake and pass the entire driver's license examination for each offense. These provisions are designed to improve driver awareness of road safety risks and create more stringent consequences for repeated traffic violations. The bill also specifies detailed penalty structures for these offenses, including fines, license suspensions, mandatory driver retraining, community service, and potential imprisonment, with penalties increasing for repeat offenders. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, and are intended to reduce dangerous driving behaviors and protect vulnerable road users like pedestrians and bicyclists.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1115&year=2025