The recent surge in traffic-related fatalities across Hawaii has raised significant concerns among residents and authorities. A tragic hit-and-run incident on February 12 claimed the life of Kailon Tyndzik, a 30-year-old Kauai native and beloved surfer, as he skateboarded along Nawiliwili Road in Lihue. Despite being airlifted to The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, Tyndzik succumbed to his injuries on February 20. In his memory, family and friends have organized paddle-out events on Kauai and Oahu and are establishing a foundation to honor his legacy. A GoFundMe campaign and sales of a “Kailon Stoked T” are supporting these efforts.
Tragically, Tyndzik is among 15 pedestrian fatalities recorded in Hawaii this year, as highlighted by preliminary data from the state Department of Transportation. Alarmingly, the state has witnessed an increase in pedestrian and cyclist deaths, including the recent loss of Isaac Villegas, a skateboarder from Kapolei. In addition, Wojciech “Voytek” Szymanski, a respected cyclist and Hawaii Bicycling League member, died after a vehicular accident on Tantalus Drive in late February. These incidents underscore the vulnerability of pedestrians and cyclists on the roads.
The alarming rise in traffic fatalities, with a total of 43 deaths recorded by mid-April, marks a 25% increase from the previous year. The fatalities include motor vehicle occupants, pedestrians, and cyclists, with Oahu experiencing the highest share. Many of these incidents involve multiple contributing factors such as impaired driving and speeding.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) has expressed concern over the escalating number of traffic deaths and is actively implementing various safety measures. These initiatives include engineering solutions like speed humps and roundabouts, alongside enhanced law enforcement training and the introduction of red-light and speed safety cameras. Educational campaigns targeting common crash factors such as speeding and distracted driving are also underway.
Furthermore, legislative efforts are in motion to improve road safety, with several bills under consideration. These proposals include mandatory helmet use for moped and skateboard users under 16, increased penalties for repeat speeding offenses, and more stringent DUI license suspension processes.
The Bigger Picture
This troubling increase in traffic fatalities has far-reaching implications for the community. The loss of life affects not only the families and friends of the victims but also deeply impacts the wider community, bringing attention to the urgent need for improved road safety measures. The potential for similar tragedies looms over pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike, stressing the importance of cultivating a culture of awareness and responsibility on the roads.
For individuals, these incidents represent a call to action to prioritize safety, whether through personal vigilance or community advocacy for stricter enforcement and enhanced infrastructure. In the broader context, this situation highlights the need for comprehensive transportation policies that better accommodate the safety of all road users, as well as encourage sustainable and safe commuting options.