(HDM=Official State of Hawai'i Drivers Manual)

Passing in Hawai'i is an art, a science and frequently quite dangerous. If possible, it’s best to just kick-back and let the "road-block" in front of you gain some distance so you can enjoy the scenery (which is why you came here in the first place!)(see the Flora and Fauna chapter).

ChillOut!

See the section in Rules-of-the-Road chapter for details, but generally, passing is prohibited when the ROAD CENTER LINES are either yellow or are double solid white lines.

LOCALS seem to be either in a tremendous hurry or are traveling well below the speed limit. Often when they notice you behind them, they will pull-over to let you pass -- something you should also consider doing. If you do pull-over, you are likely to get a thank you (or mahalo) wave or shaka (see Rules of the Road chapter).

LOCALS in a hurry will pass you anywhere they believe there is an opportunity, regardless of the signs or lines or seeming wisdom of doing so. Pulling-over when you acquire one of these behind you may be the safest and smartest thing to do. And instead of offering them a look of scorn when they fly by, try a smile and a wave. It's more for you than them!

Generally, residents adjust their speed to the person in front of them - giving them plenty of distance and to be just "going-with-the flow."

Never pass on the SHOULDERS because here in Hawai'i that shoulder could be super sharp lava, sand or mud that you will sink in or you will run over someone's water lines (on some Islands the water lines are run over the ground as the earth is solid lava rock).

Passing can be particularly dangerous in RURAL AREAS due to locals pulling out from side roads or driveways and not considering traffic. Not to mention domestic animals and wildlife not looking before they cross the road (e.g. the mongoose). Add to this vehicles that amaze you that they even run, farm and plantation trucks, locals walking, potholes, the random commercial tanker -- all on a road that seems less than even one lane! Well, you see the potential problem...

Passing slower traffic has become an aspect of modern driving life, but its application and applicability are your choice. Options to back-off, pull-off or even drift-off on a side road are all valid choices that may have unforeseen, rewarding consequences.

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