reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-12. - Bicycles on sidewalks and crosswalks — Rights and duties.

§ 31-19-12. Bicycles on sidewalks and crosswalks — Rights and duties.
A person propelling a vehicle by human power or operating an electric personal assistive mobility device (“EPAMD”) upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall be granted all the rights and shall be subject to all the duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances; provided, however, that a person riding an electric personal assistive mobility device (“EPAMD”) on a sidewalk or a bicycle path or trail shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians or give an audible signal before overtaking any passing pedestrian. Pedestrians using an EPAMD shall exercise a high degree of care when passing a pedestrian using a wheelchair, walker or other mobility aid and only pass when the width of the sidewalk exceeds five (5) feet. For purposes of this section electric personal assistive mobility devices (“EPAMD”) and electric motorized bicycles shall be prohibited from sidewalks and crosswalks in the town of New Shoreham.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 56, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 136, § 3; P.L. 2002, ch. 397, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-13. - Bicycle parking.

§ 31-19-13. Bicycle parking.
(a)
A person may park a bicycle on a sidewalk unless prohibited or restricted by an official traffic control device (sign).
(b)
A bicycle parked on a sidewalk shall not unduly impede pedestrian or other traffic.
(c)
A bicycle may be parked in the roadway at any angle to the curb or edge of the roadway at any location where parking is allowed.
(d)
A bicycle may be parked on the roadway abreast of another bicycle or bicycles near the side of the roadway at any location where parking is allowed.
(e)
In all other respects, bicycles parked anywhere on a highway shall conform with the provisions of chapter 21 of this title regulating the parking of vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-14. - Turn and stop signals.

§ 31-19-14. Turn and stop signals.
(a)
Except as provided in this section, a person riding a bicycle shall comply with § 31-16-5.
(b)
A signal of intention to turn right or left when required shall be given continuously during not less than the last one hundred feet (100′) traveled by the bicycle before turning, and shall be given while the bicycle is stopped waiting to turn. A signal by hand and arm need not be given continuously if the hand is needed in control or operation of the bicycle.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-15. - Left turns.

§ 31-19-15. Left turns.
(a)
A person riding a bicycle intending to turn left shall, unless he or she complies with the provisions of § 31-16-2, approach the turn in a position as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway. The turn shall be made at a position as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway along which the bicyclist intends to proceed after turning.
(b)
If the turn is made at a location where traffic movement is controlled by a police officer or by a traffic-control signal, the bicyclist may not proceed after crossing the intersecting roadway until a signal to proceed is given to traffic moving in the appropriate direction on the roadway along which the bicyclist intends to proceed. At all other locations, after turning and before crossing the roadway he or she is leaving, the bicyclist must yield the right-of-way to all traffic approaching on that roadway.
(c)
The state highway commission and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions may cause official traffic-control devices to be placed and require and direct that a specific course be traveled by turning bicycles, and when the devices are so placed, no person shall turn a bicycle other than as directed and required by the devices.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-16. - Bicycle identifying number.

§ 31-19-16. Bicycle identifying number.
No person engaged in the business of selling bicycles at retail shall sell any bicycle unless the bicycle has an identifying number permanently stamped or cast on its frame.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-17. - Inspecting bicycles.

§ 31-19-17. Inspecting bicycles.
A uniformed police officer may at any time upon reasonable cause to believe that a bicycle is unsafe or not equipped as required by law, or that its equipment is not in proper adjustment or repair, require the person riding the bicycle to stop and submit the bicycle to an inspection and a test with reference to it as may be appropriate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-18. - Bicycle racing.

§ 31-19-18. Bicycle racing.
(a)
Bicycle racing on the highways is prohibited except as authorized in this section.
(b)
Bicycle racing on a highway shall not be unlawful when a racing event has been approved by state or local authorities on any highways under their respective jurisdictions. The approval of bicycle highway racing events shall be granted only under conditions which assure reasonable safety for all race participants, spectators, and other highway users, and which prevent unreasonable interference with traffic flow which would seriously inconvenience other highway users.
(c)
By agreement with the approving authority, participants in an approved bicycle highway racing event may be exempted from compliance with any traffic laws otherwise applicable to it, provided that traffic control is adequate to assure the safety of all highway users.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-19. - Use of coasters, roller skates, and similar devices restricted.

§ 31-19-19. Use of coasters, roller skates, and similar devices restricted.
No person upon roller skates, or riding in or by means of any coaster, toy vehicle, or similar device, shall go upon any roadway except while crossing a street on a crosswalk, and when so crossing, the person shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to pedestrians. This section shall not apply upon any street while set aside as a play street by a duly authorized police authority.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-20. - Sale of new bicycles.

§ 31-19-20. Sale of new bicycles.
In every sale of a new bicycle, the seller shall issue a bill of sale which shall contain on it the date of sale, the seller’s and buyer’s name and address, the manufacturer’s name, model, and serial number of the bicycle. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 242, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 143, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 116.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-21. - Sale of used bicycles.

§ 31-19-21. Sale of used bicycles.
In every sale of a used bicycle, the seller shall issue a bill of sale which shall contain on it the date of sale, the seller’s and buyer’s names and addresses, the manufacturer’s name, model, and serial numbers where this information is available on the bicycle. Where any of this information is missing, the seller must obtain a registration number from the local police. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1980, ch. 143, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 116.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19 - Operation of Bicycles › Section 31-19-22. - Use of pedal carriages and rickshaws in the town of New Shoreham.

§ 31-19-22. Use of pedal carriages and rickshaws in the town of New Shoreham.
(a)
The town of New Shoreham may adopt ordinances to regulate, control, or prohibit the use of pedal carriages (also known as quadricycles) and rickshaws (also known as pedi cabs) in the town of New Shoreham.
(b)
The provisions of such ordinances shall be reasonably related to promotion and protection of the health, safety and welfare of operators, passengers, pedestrians, motorists and others residing, visiting or working within the town of New Shoreham.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 360, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.1 - Motorized Bicycles › Section 31-19.1-1. - License required to operate.

§ 31-19.1-1. License required to operate.
No person shall operate a motorized bicycle or motor scooter upon a highway in this state unless the person has a valid license as an operator under the provisions of chapter 10 of this title and shall be at least sixteen (16) years of age.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 64, § 5; P.L. 2006, ch. 11, § 3; P.L. 2006, ch. 12, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.1 - Motorized Bicycles › Section 31-19.1-2. - Driving on interstate highways prohibited.

§ 31-19.1-2. Driving on interstate highways prohibited.
No person shall operate a motorized bicycle upon an interstate highway within this state. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 64, § 5; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 114.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.2 - Motorized Tricycles › Section 31-19.2-1. - License required to operate.

§ 31-19.2-1. License required to operate.
No person shall operate a motorized tricycle upon a highway in this state unless the person has a valid license as an operator under the provisions of chapter 10 of this title and shall be at least sixteen (16) years of age.
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 377, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.2 - Motorized Tricycles › Section 31-19.2-2. - Driving on interstate highways prohibited.

§ 31-19.2-2. Driving on interstate highways prohibited.
No person shall operate a motorized tricycle upon an interstate highway within this state. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 377, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 115.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-1. - Purpose.

§ 31-19.3-1. Purpose.
The general assembly recognizes the importance of establishing procedures and standards for the supervision and regulation of the rental of motorized bicycles, motor scooters and motorized tricycles in the town of New Shoreham. The establishment of these procedures and standards is declared to be a reasonable exercise of the police power of the general assembly and necessary to afford protection against the increasing number and severity of accidents involving motorized bicycles, motor scooters and motorized tricycles, the noise, and the traffic congestion that their presence creates within the town. The general assembly further declares that it is in the interest of the public health, safety, and welfare that the rental of motorized bicycles, motor scooters and motorized tricycles in the town of New Shoreham be supervised, regulated, and controlled in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 11, § 5; P.L. 2006, ch. 12, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-2. - Definitions.

§ 31-19.3-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Motorized bicycles” has the meaning set forth in § 31-1-3.
(2)
“Motorized tricycles” has the meaning set forth in § 31-1-3.
(3)
“Motor scooters” has the meaning set forth in § 31-1-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 6, § 15; P.L. 2006, ch. 11, § 5; P.L. 2006, ch. 12, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-3. - License required.

§ 31-19.3-3. License required.
No person, firm, or corporation shall offer for rent or lease or allow to be rented or leased any motorized bicycle, motor scooter or motorized tricycle within the town of New Shoreham, unless and until the town council of the town of New Shoreham issues a license in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. However, any person, firm, or corporation holding a license to rent or lease motorized bicycles, motor scooters or motorized tricycles which has been issued by the department of revenue shall be permitted to continue to operate pursuant to the license; provided, that upon the expiration of the license, the person, firm, or corporation shall be required to comply with the provisions of this chapter in order to rent or lease motorized bicycles, motor scooters or motorized tricycles within the town of New Shoreham.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 66; P.L. 2006, ch. 11, § 5; P.L. 2006, ch. 12, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 15; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-4. - License application.

§ 31-19.3-4. License application.
(a)
Any person requesting a license under this chapter shall apply for it to the town council of the town of New Shoreham upon a form specifying any information that the town council shall require. The town council may require, with the application or otherwise, information relating to the applicant’s solvency, financial standing, insurance coverage, or any other matter which the town council may deem pertinent to safeguard the public interest, all of which shall be considered by the council in determining the fitness of the applicant to be licensed pursuant to this chapter.
(b)
The license shall be valid, unless sooner revoked or suspended, until the end of the calendar year of the year in which issued. This license shall be renewable on or after the first of each year.
(c)
Any license issued by the town council of the town of New Shoreham under provisions of this chapter may set forth:
(1)
The type of vehicle which the licensee is authorized to rent or lease.
(2)
The location of the premises from which the license holder is authorized to rent or lease the vehicles.
(3)
The total number of motorized bicycles and/or motorized tricycles which the license holder is authorized to rent or lease.
(4)
The name and address of the license holder.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-5. - Ordinances.

§ 31-19.3-5. Ordinances.
(a)
The town council of the town of New Shoreham may enact reasonable ordinances establishing procedures and standards for the licensing, supervision, regulation, and control of the rental of motorized bicycles, motor scooters and motorized tricycles.
(b)
An ordinance enacted pursuant to this section may:
(1)
Establish a fee to be charged for the issuance or renewal of any license for the rental of motorized bicycles, motor scooters and/or motorized tricycles the holder of the license is authorized to rent or lease and shall not exceed the sum of forty dollars ($40.00) per motorized bicycle, motor scooters or motorized tricycle.
(2)
Establish a maximum number of licenses which may be granted for the rental of motorized bicycles, motor scooters and/or motorized tricycles.
(3)
Establish hours during which motorized bicycles, motor scooters and/or motorized tricycles may be rented.
(4)
Establish a maximum number of motorized bicycles, motor scooters and/or motorized tricycles which a license holder may rent or lease under the license.
(5)
Provide that no motorized bicycle, motor scooters or motorized tricycle shall be rented or leased in the town of New Shoreham unless the operator thereof has a valid license issued under the provisions of § 31-10-1, or a similar license issued by a state other than Rhode Island.
(6)
Require all motorized bicycles, motor scooters and/or motorized tricycles to pass inspection annually and be issued a certificate by a duly authorized state inspection facility indicating that the vehicle has passed inspection to be conducted at inspection agencies which shall be created and governed by rules and regulations promulgated by the department of revenue.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 158, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 399, §§ 1, 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 404, § 33; P.L. 2006, ch. 11, § 5; P.L. 2006, ch. 12, § 5; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 15; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-6. - Denial, suspension, or revocation of license.

§ 31-19.3-6. Denial, suspension, or revocation of license.
The license provided for pursuant to this chapter may be denied, suspended, or revoked on any of the following grounds:
(1)
Proof of unfitness of the applicant;
(2)
Material misstatement of the applicant in the application for a license;
(3)
Violation of any provisions of this chapter or of the provisions of any ordinance established by the town council enacted pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-7. - Denial of license hearing.

§ 31-19.3-7. Denial of license hearing.
The town council of the town of New Shoreham may, without prior notice, deny any application for a license within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the application, by written notice to the applicants stating grounds for the denial. On request by the applicant who has been denied a license, the town council of the town of New Shoreham shall set the time and place of a hearing upon the denial, and it shall hear the denial with reasonable promptness.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-8. - Hearing on suspension or revocation of license.

§ 31-19.3-8. Hearing on suspension or revocation of license.
No license shall be suspended or revoked except after a hearing. The town council shall give the licensee at least five (5) days written notice of the time and place of the hearing together with the statement of grounds for the proposed action.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.3 - Regulation of Rental of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters and Motorized Tricycles in New Shoreham › Section 31-19.3-9. - Records of council.

§ 31-19.3-9. Records of council.
The town council shall keep minutes of its proceedings showing the vote of each member upon any question or, if absent or failing to vote, indicating that fact, and shall keep records of its examinations and other official actions, all of which shall be filed immediately in the office of the town clerk and shall be a public record.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984 (s.s.), ch. 457, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-19.4 - Prudence Island Low Speed Vehicles › Section 31-19.4-1. - Prudence Island low speed vehicles.

§ 31-19.4-1. Prudence Island low speed vehicles.
(a)
For the purposes of this chapter, a low speed vehicle means a self-propelled, electrically or gas powered motor vehicle which: is designed to carry four (4) or fewer persons; is designed to be, and is, operated at speeds of twenty-five (25) miles per hour or less; and conforms to the maximum safety equipment requirements as adopted in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 500, Low Speed vehicles (49 C.F.R. 571.500). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, a low speed vehicle may be operated upon the roadways of Prudence Island if it meets the requirements of this section.
(b)
Each person operating a low speed vehicle on a roadway of Prudence Island shall possess a valid driver’s license issued pursuant to § 31-10-1.
(c)
Every operator of a low speed vehicle shall maintain financial responsibility on such low speed vehicle if the low speed vehicle is to be operated upon the roadways of Prudence Island.
(d)
Every person operating a low speed vehicle shall be granted all the rights and shall be subject to all duties applicable to the driver of any motor vehicle except as to the special regulations in this section and except as to those provisions which by their nature can have no application.
(e)
The operator of a low speed vehicle shall observe all traffic laws and local ordinances regarding the rules of the road. A low speed vehicle shall not be operated on a street or a highway with a posted speed limit greater than twenty-five (25) miles per hour. The provisions of this subsection shall not prohibit a low speed vehicle from crossing a street or highway with a posted speed limit greater than thirty-five (35) miles per hour.
(f)
No person shall operate a low speed vehicle: (1) in any careless way as to endanger the person or property of another; or (2) while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance. Low speed vehicles shall be manufactured and comply with the standards of the National Traffic Safety Administration Standards for low speed vehicles as set out in 49 C.F.R. 571.500, as amended.
(g)
A low speed vehicle shall only be operated during the hours of 6:00 am through 6:00 pm.
History of Section.
P.L. 2005, ch. 327, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 328, § 1; P.L. 2005, ch. 381, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-1. - When railroad crossing stops required of all vehicles.

§ 31-20-1. When railroad crossing stops required of all vehicles.
Whenever any person driving a vehicle approaches a railroad grade crossing under any of the circumstances stated in this section the driver of the vehicle shall stop within fifty feet (50′) but not less than fifteen feet (15′) from the nearest rail of the railroad, and shall not proceed until he or she can do so safely. These foregoing requirements shall apply when:
(1)
A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device gives warning of the immediate approach of a railroad train;
(2)
A crossing gate is lowered or when a human flagman gives or continues to give a signal of the approach or passage of a railroad train;
(3)
A railroad train approaching within approximately one thousand five hundred feet (1,500′) of the highway crossing emits a signal audible from that distance, and the railroad train, by reason of its speed or nearness to the crossing, is an immediate hazard;
(4)
An approaching railroad train is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing.
(5)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 117.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-2. - Driving through railroad gate or barrier.

§ 31-20-2. Driving through railroad gate or barrier.
(a)
No person shall drive any vehicle through, around, or under any crossing gate or barrier at a railroad grade crossing while the gate or barrier is closed or is being opened or closed.
(b)
Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-2; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 117.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-3. - Stop signs at dangerous railroad crossings.

§ 31-20-3. Stop signs at dangerous railroad crossings.
The state traffic commission and local authorities with the approval of the state traffic commission are authorized to designate particularly dangerous highway grade crossings of railroads and to erect stop signs at those crossings. When the stop signs are erected, the driver of any vehicle shall stop within fifty feet (50′) but not less than fifteen feet (15′) from the nearest rail of the railroad and shall proceed only upon exercising due care.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-4. - Vehicles required to stop at all railroads — Exceptions.

§ 31-20-4. Vehicles required to stop at all railroads — Exceptions.
(a)
The driver of any motor vehicle carrying passengers for hire, or of any school bus carrying any school child, or of any vehicle carrying explosive substances or flammable liquids as a cargo or part of a cargo, before crossing at grade any track or tracks of a railroad, shall stop the vehicle within fifty feet (50′) but not less than fifteen feet (15′) from the nearest rail of such railroad, and while so stopped, shall listen and look in both directions along the track for any approaching train, and for signals indicating the approach of a train, except as provided in this chapter, and shall not proceed until he or she can do so safely. After stopping as required in this section and upon proceeding when it is safe to do so, the driver of the vehicle shall cross only in a gear of the vehicle that there will be no necessity for changing gears while traversing the crossing, and the driver shall not shift gears while crossing the track or tracks.
(b)
No stop need be made at any crossing where a police officer or a traffic control signal directs traffic to proceed.
(c)
This section shall not apply at railroad grade crossings within a business or residence district.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-5. - Moving of heavy equipment over railroad crossings.

§ 31-20-5. Moving of heavy equipment over railroad crossings.
(a)
No person shall operate or move any crawler-type tractor, steam shovel, derrick, roller, or any equipment or structure having a normal operating speed of ten (10) or less miles per hour or a vertical body or load clearance of less than one-half inch per foot of the distance between any two adjacent axles, or in any event, of less than nine inches (9"), measured above the level surface of a roadway, upon or across any tracks at a railroad grade crossing, without first complying with this section.
(b)
Notice of the intended crossing shall be given to a station agent of the railroad, and a reasonable time shall be given to the railroad to provide proper protection at the crossing.
(c)
Before making the crossing, the person operating or moving the vehicle or equipment shall first stop the same not less than fifteen feet (15′) nor more than fifty feet (50′) from the nearest rail of the railroad and, while so stopped shall listen and look in both directions along the track for any approaching train and for signals indicating the approach of a train, and shall not proceed until the crossing can be made safely.
(d)
No crossing shall be made when warning is given by automatic signal or crossing gates or a flagperson or otherwise of the immediate approach of a railroad train or car. If a flagperson is provided by the railroad, movement over the crossing shall be under the flagperson’s direction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-6. - Designation of through highways — Erection of stop and yield signs.

§ 31-20-6. Designation of through highways — Erection of stop and yield signs.
The state traffic commission with reference to state highways, and local authorities with reference to other highways under their jurisdiction, may designate through highways and erect stop and yield signs at special entrances to them, or may designate any intersection as a stop and yield intersection and erect like signs at one or more entrances to the intersection.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-6; P.L. 1966, ch. 70, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-7. - Specifications for stop signs.

§ 31-20-7. Specifications for stop signs.
A stop sign shall bear the word “stop” in letters not less than six inches (6") in height, and the sign shall at nighttime be rendered luminous by steady or flashing internal illumination, by a fixed floodlight projected on the face of the sign, or by efficient reflecting elements on the face of the sign.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-8. - Placement of stop signs.

§ 31-20-8. Placement of stop signs.
Every stop sign shall be erected as near as practicable to the nearest line of the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. If there is no crosswalk then it shall be placed as close as practicable to the nearest line of the roadway.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-9. - Obedience to stop signs.

§ 31-20-9. Obedience to stop signs.
Every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. In the event there is no crosswalk, the driver shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting highway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting highway before entering the intersection, except when directed to proceed by a police officer or traffic control signal. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-9; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 117.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-10. - Vehicles emerging from alleys, driveways, and buildings.

§ 31-20-10. Vehicles emerging from alleys, driveways, and buildings.
The driver of a vehicle within a business or residence district emerging from an alley, driveway, or building shall stop the vehicle immediately prior to driving onto a sidewalk or onto the sidewalk area extending across any alleyway or private driveway, and shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian as may be necessary to avoid collision. Upon entering the roadway the driver shall yield the right of way to all vehicles approaching on the roadway.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-10.3. - School bus stops — Routes.

§ 31-20-10.3. School bus stops — Routes.
(a)
No school bus shall stop to discharge or pick up passengers at any intersection where a traffic control device as defined in § 31-1-28 controls the movement of the bus.
(b)
No school bus shall stop to discharge or pick up passengers at any location which would require a child to cross any road where the posted speed limit is greater than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph). School bus stops shall be developed in such a manner which assures that the bus stop will be on the child’s home side of the road so that the child does not have to cross the road to board the bus or to reach home.
(c)
No school superintendent, school committee, contractor, or school bus owner shall put into effect any school bus route which cannot be completed in the time allotted without exceeding posted speed limits.
(d)
All school bus routes shall be reviewed by the local police chief of each city and town for safety hazards within ninety (90) days before the start of the school year.
(e)
Any party may appeal the decision of a local police chief approving or disapproving any bus route or stop to the commissioner of elementary and secondary education who shall hold a hearing as provided in § 16-39-1.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 401, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-10.4. - Exemption from discharge requirements of § 31-20-10.3.

§ 31-20-10.4. Exemption from discharge requirements of § 31-20-10.3.
(a)
Rural communities are exempted from the provisions of § 31-20-10.3(b) when:
(1)
A school bus is turning one hundred and eighty degrees (180 degrees) on a road;
(2)
A school bus is backing up on a road; or
(3)
A school bus is stopping on a road of low traffic flow.
(b)
For purposes of this section, “rural community” means any community in which there is a regionalized school district and the towns of Burrillville, Scituate, Little Compton, and New Shoreham.
(c)
For purposes of this section, “low traffic flow” means any road designated as a road with low traffic flow by the state traffic commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 350, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 427, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-11. - Marking of school buses — Penalty for violation.

§ 31-20-11. Marking of school buses — Penalty for violation.
(a)
Every bus used for the transportation of school children shall be painted yellow and bear upon the front and rear of it a plainly visible sign containing the words “school bus” in black letters not less than eight inches (8") in height. Every bus shall also bear on the right and left side the name of the school district for which the bus is transporting children in letters not less than four inches (4") in height and shall be painted black. Any bus being used for the transportation of persons, the majority of whom are under the age of eighteen (18) may display such a sign.
(b)
Except as provided in this section, when a school bus is operated upon a street or highway for purposes other than the actual transportation of children, all marking indicating “school bus” shall be covered or concealed. Whenever any school bus is sold and/or is no longer used for the purpose of transporting children, its color shall be changed from national school bus chrome or any other shade of yellow to any other color, and the four (4) flashing warning lights shall be removed before the vehicle can be registered or reregistered for any purpose other than the transportation of school children.
(c)
The division of motor vehicles shall require proof of the change of color and other modifications prior to registering the vehicle.
(d)
Every school bus shall display a sign located below the rear window of the bus which reads “unlawful to pass when red lights are flashing”. The sign shall have black letters not less than four inches (4") nor more than six inches (6") high on a white reflective background.
(e)
Any person, firm, or corporation found in violation of this section shall be fined not less than one hundred dollars ($100).
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-11; P.L. 1968, ch. 40, § 1; P.L. 1969, ch. 236, § 1; P.L. 1973, ch. 133, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 401, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 457, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 454, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-11.1. - Signaling of stops for school buses.

§ 31-20-11.1. Signaling of stops for school buses.
No school bus driver while transporting school children shall stop the school bus without first having actuated the flashing lights at least one hundred feet (100′) prior to the scheduled school bus stop.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 250, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-30-11.1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-12. - Stopping for school bus required — Penalty for violation.

§ 31-20-12. Stopping for school bus required — Penalty for violation.
(a)
The driver of a vehicle upon a street, highway, private way, private or public parking area upon meeting or overtaking from any direction any bus marked as “school bus” whenever the bus is being operated in accordance with § 31-20-11 and on which there is in operation flashing red lights, shall stop the vehicle before reaching the bus. The driver shall not proceed until the bus resumes motion or until the flashing lights are no longer actuated. No driver of any motor vehicle, except emergency vehicles on official business, shall travel in the same lane of traffic behind a school bus at a distance of less than fifty feet (50′). A person convicted of a violation of this section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed three hundred dollars ($300) and/or suspension of driving license for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days for the first offense, and a mandatory fine of not less than three hundred dollars ($300) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500) and/or revocation of driving license for a period of one year for each subsequent offense.
(b)
A peace officer may issue a summons based on the statement or testimony of a school bus driver or monitor or other private citizen provided that the statement or testimony provides the peace officer with sufficient probable cause that a violation under this section was committed. Any conviction under this section may be punished in accordance with subsection (a) of this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-12; P.L. 1965, ch. 96, § 1; P.L. 1968, ch. 40, § 1; P.L. 1969, ch. 51, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 188, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 267, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 91, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 114, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 401, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 133, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 359, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 510, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-12.1. - Repealed.

§ 31-20-12.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1980, ch. 287, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2000, ch. 359, § 2, and by P.L. 2000, ch. 510, § 2, effective July 20, 2000, and July 22, 2000, respectively.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-13. - School buses stopped on divided highway or in loading zone.

§ 31-20-13. School buses stopped on divided highway or in loading zone.
When operating a vehicle upon a highway, the driver need not stop upon meeting or passing a bus marked as “school bus” in accordance with § 31-20-11 in the following circumstances:
(1)
When a highway is a divided highway and the bus is stopped in the roadway on one side of the divided highway and the driver is operating on the other side of it.
(2)
When the bus is stopped in a loading zone adjacent to a limited access highway and pedestrians are not permitted to cross the highway.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-13; P.L. 1968, ch. 40, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 82, § 2; P.L. 2013, ch. 89, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-14. - Repealed.

§ 31-20-14. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-14; Repealed by P.L. 1968, ch. 40, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-15. - Posting of bridle path signs.

§ 31-20-15. Posting of bridle path signs.
The department of revenue shall in all parks and reservations, and the traffic safety commission shall on all state highways, erect and maintain adequate signs requiring operators of motor vehicles to come to a complete stop because of the existence of a bridle path where saddle horses may cross the roads in the parks and reservation and/or state highways.
History of Section.
P.L. 1945, ch. 1642, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 22, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-15; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 16; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-16. - Stops at bridle path crossings.

§ 31-20-16. Stops at bridle path crossings.
(a)
Every operator of a motor vehicle shall bring his or her motor vehicle to a complete stop in parks and reservations and on state highways where the department of revenue or state traffic commission has posted signs of bridle paths where saddle horses may cross the roads in the parks and reservations and/or highways.
(b)
An operator violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a civil violation, and upon conviction, shall be fined not more than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for the first offense nor more than fifty dollars ($50.00) for second or subsequent offenses.
History of Section.
P.L. 1945, ch. 1642, § 2; impl. am. P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 22, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-16; P.L. 1988, ch. 296, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 218, art. 6, § 9; P.L. 2008, ch. 98, § 16; P.L. 2008, ch. 145, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-17. - Stopping for crossing guards and school bus monitors required.

§ 31-20-17. Stopping for crossing guards and school bus monitors required.
(a)
The driver of a vehicle upon a street or highway, upon meeting or approaching from any direction a crossing guard, shall stop the vehicle before reaching the crossing guard. The driver shall not proceed until signaled to proceed by the crossing guard or until the crossing guard has completed his or her duties of aiding the pedestrian safely to the sidewalk.
(b)
The driver of any vehicle upon a street or highway, upon meeting or approaching from any direction a school bus monitor, shall stop the vehicle in accordance with § 31-20-12 and shall not proceed until the requirements of § 31-20-12 are met.
(c)
A person convicted of a violation of this section may be punished by a fine not to exceed three hundred dollars ($300) and/or suspension of his or her driving license for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days for the first offense, and a fine not less than three hundred dollars ($300) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500) and/or suspension of his or her driving license for a period of one year for each subsequent offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 26, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 401, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 314, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 399, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-17.1. - Private complaint — Stopping for crossing guard/bus monitor required.

§ 31-20-17.1. Private complaint — Stopping for crossing guard/bus monitor required.
(a)
Upon receipt of a private complaint, in writing and signed by the complainant, the traffic tribunal shall by letter notify the violator to respond in writing within twenty (20) days to the allegations of the complaint. Failure to respond to the letter will result in the person being notified to appear before a judge of the traffic tribunal and show cause why his or her license should not be suspended. Failure to appear at the hearing will result in the suspension of the person’s license until such time as the person does appear.
(b)
On any second or subsequent violation within one year, the person shall be issued a summons to appear for a hearing, and failure to appear will result in the suspension of the person’s license until such time as the person does appear.
(c)
At any hearing resulting from any violation, the complainant shall also appear at the hearing. A person convicted of a violation of this section shall be punished in accordance with the penalties set forth in § 31-20-12.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 401, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-20 - Special Stops Required › Section 31-20-17.2. - Private complaint — Stopping for crossing guard/bus monitor required — Central Falls.

§ 31-20-17.2. Private complaint — Stopping for crossing guard/bus monitor required — Central Falls.
(a)
The following procedure shall apply to first offenses in Central Falls reported by private complaint:
(1)
Upon receipt of a private complaint, in writing and signed by the complainant, the Central Falls municipal court shall by certified mail, return receipt requested, notify the violator to respond in writing within twenty (20) days to the allegations of the complaint.
(2)
Failure to respond to the letter will result in the person being notified to appear before a judge of the Central Falls municipal court to show cause why he or she should not be fined one hundred dollars ($100) for his or her failure to respond.
(3)
Failure to appear at the hearing at that time will result in the person being fined one hundred dollars ($100).
(b)
All moneys collected pursuant to this section shall be forwarded by the Central Falls municipal court to the city of Central Falls.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 314, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-21 - Stopping, Standing, and Parking Restrictions › Section 31-21-1. - Stopping on traveled portion of open highway prohibited.

§ 31-21-1. Stopping on traveled portion of open highway prohibited.
Upon any highway outside of a business or residence district, no person shall stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle, whether attended or unattended, upon the paved or main traveled part of the highway when it is practical to stop, park, or leave the vehicle off that part of the highway. In every event, an unobstructed width of the highway opposite a standing vehicle shall be left for the free passage of other vehicles, and a clear view of the stopped vehicle shall be available from a distance of two hundred feet (200′) in each direction upon the highway.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 32, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-21-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-21 - Stopping, Standing, and Parking Restrictions › Section 31-21-2. - Removal of vehicle parked on highway.

§ 31-21-2. Removal of vehicle parked on highway.
Whenever any police officer finds a vehicle standing upon a highway in violation of § 31-21-1, the officer is authorized to move the vehicle, or require the driver or other person in charge of the vehicle to move the vehicle, to a position off the paved or main traveled part of the highway.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 32, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-21-2.