Late-Night Wreck on Kuhio Ave Sends SUV Into Building in Waikiki, HI
May 21, 2026
Waikiki, HI (May 21, 2026) – Two drivers were hurt after a collision in Waikiki on Tuesday, May 19. The crash happened just after 11 p.m. on Kuhio Avenue.
According to the Honolulu Police Department, the officer was traveling in the bus-only lane on Kuhio Avenue with lights and sirens on while responding to a robbery call. A black vehicle moving west on Kuhio Avenue shifted into the same lane as the officer tried to pass, and the two vehicles collided.
After the collision, the black vehicle spun out and came to rest on one side of the road. The police SUV continued forward and hit the front of the McDonald’s building. The crash caused damage to the building and both vehicles.
The black vehicle was not connected to the robbery call. Both drivers reported minor injuries, and no arrests were made.
Authorities confirmed the officer was following proper policy and that no pursuit was involved in the accident. The crash is still being reviewed internally.
We hope both drivers make a quick and full recovery.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim After a Police Crash in Waikiki, HI?
In Hawaii, you have two years from the date of a crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. That deadline applies whether the other driver was a private citizen or a government employee. Because Hawaii is a no-fault state, your PIP coverage pays for initial medical bills regardless of fault.
Waikiki is one of Oahu’s busiest areas for drivers and pedestrians. A crash on Kuhio Avenue can quickly slow traffic through the hotel and shopping district. Nearby roads such as Kalakaua Avenue and Ala Wai Boulevard also see steady congestion.
When a police vehicle is involved, the claim process can differ from a standard car accident. Special rules may apply to how and when you notify the City and County of Honolulu. Acting early helps make sure you meet any deadlines that could affect your case.
Once your PIP runs out or your injuries meet certain thresholds, you can step outside of no-fault. Hawaii law then allows you to file a claim against the at-fault driver directly. Starting early preserves evidence like surveillance footage that may not be stored long.
Even if your injuries seem minor, some symptoms may not appear for days. Seeing a doctor right away creates a medical record tied to the crash. That record can be helpful later if your symptoms get worse.
Before you agree to any insurance payout, make sure you know your full medical needs. Quick settlements often do not account for follow-up visits or ongoing treatment. Having documentation of all your expenses puts you in a stronger position.
If you were in a crash with a government vehicle, a Honolulu car accident attorney can guide you through the process. Legal guidance can help you avoid missing steps that could limit your options.
Our team at Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner has worked with people in Waikiki and throughout Honolulu after serious crashes. We can review your case and answer questions about your options.
You can call Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner at (808) 537-2525 to discuss your case with our team.
Notes: Our team of writers uses secondary sources such as news reports, local and state police incident reports to create these posts. We have not independently verified all of the facts surrounding this particular accident so if there is any information that is incorrect, please contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner right away so that we can update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: This post is not a solicitation for business. The photo used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene. None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. If you are injured in an accident, seek medical assistance immediately.