The worst mistake is talking too much too soon. In Hawaii, you usually have 2 years from the crash date to file an injury lawsuit, but people damage their case in the first 48 hours by giving insurers, employers, and social media a version of events they cannot take back.

Do not assume "I'm being honest" means "I'm helping myself." A recorded statement to any insurance company can lock you into bad wording before you know your injuries. That matters even more around Honolulu, where crashes near Waikiki, Ala Moana, and hospital corridors often involve rental cars, delivery drivers, or shared fault arguments.

Common claim-killers:

• Not calling HPD or leaving without a report number
• Not getting checked out the same day, especially for neck, wrist, head, or knee pain
• Saying "I'm fine" in a text, chart note, or recorded call
• Posting photos, workout clips, or "back at work" updates online
• Throwing away the scooter, helmet, shoes, or scrubs from the crash
• Accepting a fast settlement before you know the full medical picture

Another myth: if it happened on the job, only workers' comp matters. Not always. If a negligent driver, hotel shuttle, tour van, or rental car caused the crash, there may be a separate claim. Hawaii drivers must carry at least 20/40/10 liability coverage, but that minimum often does not cover a serious injury.

If the crash involved a car, notify insurance promptly and keep every claim number. If it happened while working, report it to your employer right away and document when. In Honolulu, delays over year-end renewals and rushed insurer calls are common. Fast paperwork helps; fast settlement usually does not.