Hawaii Senate Bill SR13

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 3/4/25

Caption

Requesting The Insurance Commissioner To Study The Impact Of Uninsured Motorists In Hawaii.

Impact

The resolution underscores the need for comprehensive data to understand the prevalence of uninsured motorists and their financial impact on those who are insured. Specifically, it aims to examine how the presence of uninsured motorists contributes to increased insurance premiums, which can disproportionately affect law-abiding citizens who comply with insurance requirements. The findings from this study are expected to inform future legislative actions that might be taken to alleviate these financial strains on insured motorists.

Summary

Senate Resolution 13 (SR13) requests the Insurance Commissioner of Hawaii to conduct a thorough study on the impact of uninsured motorists in the state. Despite existing laws mandating that all drivers must carry motor vehicle insurance, it is estimated that approximately eleven percent of motorists in Hawaii operate vehicles without valid insurance. This situation places significant financial and emotional burdens on insured drivers who may find themselves involved in accidents with these uninsured motorists, highlighting a critical public safety issue.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SR13 include the ongoing debate about the implications of uninsured drivers on insurance markets and public safety. Proponents of the bill argue that understanding the scope and impact of uninsured motorists is crucial for developing effective policies that ensure the protection of residents. Critics may question the adequacy of current penalties for uninsured driving or the effectiveness of existing measures, suggesting that mere studies may not address the pressing issues at hand.

Recommendation

SR13 also calls for the Insurance Commissioner to provide recommendations aimed at reducing the number of uninsured motorists, which could include policy changes or new legislative measures. A report is to be submitted to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2026, indicating a timeline for potential legal revisions based on the study’s findings.