How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is 2 years. You must file your lawsuit within 2 years of the date of injury. Missing this deadline typically bars you from recovering any compensation.

Are there damage caps in Hawaii personal injury cases?

In Hawaii: No cap on compensatory damages. These caps may affect how much you can recover, particularly for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

What is the average personal injury settlement in Hawaii?

Average personal injury settlements in Hawaii range from approximately $60,000–$250,000 depending on injury type, liability, insurance coverage, and other case-specific factors.

Hawaii Personal Injury Law — Statute of Limitations, Fault Rules & More

Q: What is the fault system in Hawaii?

Hawaii uses Pure comparative fault. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault in causing the accident.

2 years Filing deadline

Pure Fault system

$60,000 Avg settlement (low)

5 Common case types

Overview of Personal Injury Law in Hawaii

Hawaii follows a pure comparative fault system with no cap on compensatory damages. The state allows injured parties to recover even if they are mostly at fault, with damages reduced proportionally by their percentage of fault.

This guide covers the most important rules for personal injury claims in Hawaii, including the statute of limitations, comparative fault rules, damages caps, and common case types. Laws can change — always verify with a licensed Hawaii attorney for your specific situation.

Key Hawaii Personal Injury Statutes

Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-7 (SOL)

Haw. Rev. Stat. § 663-31 (comparative fault)

Haw. Rev. Stat. § 663-3 (wrongful death)

Most Common Personal Injury Cases in Hawaii

Car Accidents

Slip & Fall

Medical Malpractice

Product Liability

Tourism Injuries

Hawaii Damages Caps & Average Settlements

Damages Rule No cap on compensatory damages

Average Settlement $60,000–$250,000

Fault System Pure comparative fault

Settlement amounts vary significantly based on injury severity, liability clarity, insurance policy limits, and jurisdiction within Hawaii.

Frequently Asked Questions — Hawaii Injury Law

How long do I have to file a claim in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, you generally have 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit from the date of injury. Key statute: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 657-7.

Exceptions may apply for minors, government entity cases, or when the injury was not immediately discovered. Consult a Hawaii attorney to confirm your deadline.

What is Hawaii's fault system?

Hawaii uses Pure comparative fault. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. You can recover even if mostly at fault, though damages are reduced proportionally.

Are there damage caps in Hawaii?

Hawaii damage rules: No cap on compensatory damages. These limits can significantly affect cases involving pain and suffering and other non-economic losses. Economic damages like medical bills and lost wages are typically not capped.

What is the average settlement in Hawaii?

Personal injury settlements in Hawaii average approximately $60,000–$250,000. Catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and medical malpractice cases typically settle for significantly higher amounts.

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Injured in Hawaii? Get Help Now.

Personal injury laws in Hawaii can be complex and deadlines are strict. A qualified Hawaii personal injury attorney can evaluate your case for free — with no upfront costs.

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⚠ Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Laws change and specifics vary by case. Always consult a licensed Hawaii attorney for legal advice.