Increased Traffic Enforcement Raises Citation Risk for Hawaii Businesses

State deputies are significantly increasing traffic enforcement, targeting speeding in school zones and impaired driving, following a 20% rise in highway fatalities last year. This heightened enforcement, effective immediately and expected to be sustained, means a greater likelihood of traffic citations for any business with vehicles operating on Hawaii's roads or employees commuting during enforcement hours.

The Change

Beginning January 2026, Hawaii's deputy sheriffs are bolstering traffic enforcement efforts. This initiative, a direct response to a sharp increase in highway deaths in the previous year, will involve deputies assisting in cracking down on speeding violations, particularly in school zones on weekdays, and focusing on drunken driving enforcement during weekends. The goal is to create safer roads by increasing the perceived risk of being caught for traffic infractions.

Who's Affected

Small Business Operators: Businesses relying on delivery services, whether for food, retail, or other goods, will see an increased risk of their drivers receiving speeding tickets, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. This could lead to fines, increased insurance premiums, and potential disruptions to delivery schedules. Furthermore, employees who drive to work, particularly those with shift changes during peak enforcement hours, may face citations, leading to tardiness and impacting operational continuity.

Tourism Operators: Hotels, tour bus companies, and other hospitality providers that utilize shuttle services or employee transport vehicles are also directly impacted. Increased enforcement means a higher probability of citations for these vehicles, potentially leading to fines and service interruptions. Even employee commutes, if they involve driving during targeted enforcement periods, can result in citations, affecting staffing availability and punctuality, which are critical in the service-intensive tourism sector.

Second-Order Effects

This intensified traffic enforcement, while aimed at road safety, can have ripple effects on Hawaii's economy. Increased traffic citations for commercial drivers can lead to higher operational costs for businesses through fines and rising insurance premiums. These increased costs may be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices for goods and services, potentially impacting demand. For employees, accumulating traffic violations can lead to license suspension, making it difficult to maintain employment, especially in roles requiring driving. This could exacerbate existing labor shortages in sectors like small business and tourism, forcing operators to offer higher wages or face reduced service capacity. Finally, sustained enforcement could subtly encourage smoother, slower traffic flow, which might slightly increase commute times for all road users, impacting overall productivity.

What to Do

This situation requires a WATCH approach. Businesses should monitor the intensity and focus of traffic enforcement in their operational areas.

Specific Guidance:

• Small Business Operators: Review your fleet's routes and schedules. Consider pre-emptively retraining drivers on school zone speed limits and safe driving practices. Implement policies that encourage mindful driving to avoid citations. Monitor local news for any specific enforcement crackdowns in your operating zones.
• Tourism Operators: Assess your current vehicle routes and schedules for school zones and weekend periods. Educate your drivers on increased enforcement and the importance of adherence to traffic laws. Consider alternative transportation arrangements for employees if driving becomes too risky or costly due to potential citations.

Action Details:

Monitor local traffic advisories and news reports from sources like Hawaii News Now and Civil Beat for specific enforcement patterns and locations. If you observe a consistent increase in citations for your fleet or employees in specific areas, consider adjusting delivery windows or implementing a mandatory defensive driving course for your staff. Be prepared for potential minor delays in transportation logistics due to increased traffic stops.