As Hawaiʻi's schools prepare to launch their graduates into the next chapter of their lives, an urgent plea for safety on the state's roads echoes from officials. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation, in conjunction with the Hawaiʻi Department of Education, is adamant on raising awareness of traffic safety during this especially busy season. With a staggering 53 traffic fatalities reported as of May 13, a sharp increase from last year's 35, the message is clear: the celebrations of graduation must be met with caution and responsibility.
In the lead-up to the various commencement ceremonies - 46 public high school and 10 University of Hawaiʻi campuses - families and friends are gearing up to attend the joyous events. The increase in road traffic, coupled with the recent spike in fatalities, however, serves as a somber reminder. According to the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation report, the fatalities include a range of victims from pedestrians to skateboarders with varying causes such as speeding, impairment, and failure to adhere to basic road safety measures like wearing seatbelts or helmets.
"One of the best ways we can honor and celebrate our graduates is to prioritize safety on our roadways to prevent more fatalities," Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen emphasized. This sentiment aligns with the cautionary advice dispensed by the Hawaiʻi Department of Education Superintendent Keith Hayashi, who stressed, "Graduation is a milestone our students have worked incredibly hard to reach, and we want every celebration to be a joyful one."
There's no understating of the gravity of this time: the need for heightened attention to road safety is paramount. Alongside reminders to drive responsibly and stay alert, the state is taking steps to mitigate potential traffic disruptions. Officials recommend preparing to leave early to navigate increased traffic near venues and urge motorists to utilize online tools like GoAkamai, Google Maps, and Waze. These resources can assist in planning routes and avoiding potential congestion. Moreover, the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation has underscored that weekly roadwork and lane closure lists are readily accessible online—a resource keenly intended to aid individuals in making informed decisions about their travel plans during this spirited season.
