reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-25 - Size, Weight, and Load Limits › Section 31-25-27.10. - Weight restrictions on Forest Avenue and Turner Road — Middletown.

§ 31-25-27.10. Weight restrictions on Forest Avenue and Turner Road — Middletown.
(a)
The operation of through commercial vehicles on Forest Avenue and Turner Road is prohibited.
(b)
For purposes of this section, a commercial vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles used to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle:
(1)
Has a gross combination weight rating of twenty-six thousand one pounds (26,001 lbs.) or more, or a towed unit with a gross vehicle rating of more than ten thousand pounds (10,000 lbs.) or more, or has a gross vehicle weight rating of twenty-six thousand one pounds (26,001 lbs.) or more; or
(2)
Is designed to transport sixteen (16) or more passengers including the driver; or
(3)
Is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded in accordance with 49 C.F.R. Part 172, Subpart F, as it may be revised from time to time.
(c)
Nothing contained in this section shall affect the use of such streets or highways by:
(1)
Any fire truck, town public works department truck, police vehicle, ambulance, school bus, bus serving the area, or other motor truck using such streets or highways in any emergency or engaged in delivering goods, wares, merchandising or materials to or from any residence, building or lot within the town bordering on such streets or highways; or
(2)
Any farm vehicle as defined in § 31-1-8, which is registered with farm plates pursuant to § 31-3-31.
(d)
In all instances where motor vehicle traffic is restricted or prohibited under this section, the town administrator is directed to cause signs to be erected on such streets or highways giving notice of such, in accordance with the manual on uniform traffic control devices.
(e)
Any driver who operates a commercial vehicle in contravention of this section shall be subject to a fine of not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for a first violation, fifty dollars ($50.00) for a second violation, and not less than one hundred twenty-five dollars ($125), but no more than five hundred dollars ($500) for each subsequent violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 306, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 333, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 192, § 1, effective July 8, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 193, § 1, effective July 8, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-25 - Size, Weight, and Load Limits › Section 31-25-27.11. - Weight restrictions on Limerock Road — Smithfield and Lincoln.

§ 31-25-27.11. Weight restrictions on Limerock Road — Smithfield and Lincoln.
(a)
The operation of through commercial vehicles on Limerock Road between Douglas Pike in Smithfield and Jenckes Hill Road in Lincoln is prohibited.
(b)
For purposes of this section, a commercial vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles used to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle:
(1)
Has a gross combination weight rating of thirty-five thousand one pounds (35,001 lbs.) or more, or a towed unit with a gross vehicle rating of more than ten thousand pounds (10,000 lbs.) or more, or has a gross vehicle weight rating of twenty-six thousand one pounds (26,001 lbs.) or more; or
(2)
Is designed to transport sixteen (16) or more passengers including the driver; or
(3)
Is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded in accordance with 49 C.F.R. Part 172, Subpart F, as it may be revised from time to time.
(c)
Nothing contained in this section shall affect the use of such street or roadway by:
(1)
Any fire truck, town public works department truck, state department of transportation truck, police vehicle, ambulance, school bus, bus serving the area, or other motor truck using such streets or highways in any emergency or engaged in delivering goods, wares, merchandising, or materials to or from any residence, building, or lot within the towns bordering on such streets or highways; or
(2)
Any farm vehicle as defined in § 31-1-8, which is registered with farm plates pursuant to § 31-3-31.
(d)
Any driver who operates a commercial vehicle in contravention of this section shall be subject to a fine of fifty-five dollars ($55.00) for a first violation and one hundred ten dollars ($110) for each subsequent violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2020, ch. 31, § 1; P.L. 2020, ch. 55, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-25 - Size, Weight, and Load Limits › Section 31-25-27.12. - Commercial vehicles prohibited on Chases Lane in Middletown.

§ 31-25-27.12. Commercial vehicles prohibited on Chases Lane in Middletown.
(a)
The operation of commercial vehicles is prohibited on Chases Lane in Middletown.
(b)
For purposes of this section, a “commercial vehicle” is defined as a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles used to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle:
(1)
Has a gross combination weight rating of twenty-six thousand one pounds (26,001 lbs.) or more, or a towed unit with a gross vehicle rating of more than ten thousand pounds (10,000 lbs.) or more, or has a gross vehicle weight rating of twenty-six thousand one pounds (26,001 lbs.) or more; or
(2)
Is designed to transport sixteen (16) or more passengers including the driver; or
(3)
Is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded in accordance with 49 C.F.R. Part 172, Subpart F, as it may be revised from time to time.
(c)
Nothing contained in this section shall affect the use of Chases Lane by:
(1)
Any fire truck, town public works department truck, police vehicle, ambulance, school bus, bus serving the area, or other motor truck using such streets or highways in any emergency or engaged in delivering public utilities, goods, wares, merchandising, or materials to or from any residence, residential building, or residential lot within the town bordering on such street; provided further, that the use of Chases Lane for the delivery of goods, wares, merchandising, or materials to or from any commercial business or building, or any commercial lot within the town bordering on such street is specifically prohibited; or
(2)
Any farm vehicle as defined in § 31-1-8, which is registered with farm vehicle plates pursuant to § 31-3-31.
(d)
In all instances where motor vehicle traffic is restricted or prohibited under this section, the town administrator is directed to cause signs to be erected on such streets or highways giving notice of such, in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
(e)
Any driver who operates a commercial vehicle in violation of this section shall be subject to a fine of not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for a first violation, fifty dollars ($50.00) for a second violation, and not less than one hundred twenty-five dollars ($125), but no more than five hundred dollars ($500) for each subsequent violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 19, § 1, effective May 11, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 21, § 1, effective May 11, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-25 - Size, Weight, and Load Limits › Section 31-25-28. - Liability for damages from oversize or overweight.

§ 31-25-28. Liability for damages from oversize or overweight.
(a)
Any person driving any vehicle, object, or contrivance upon any highway or highway structure shall be liable for all damage which the highway or structure may sustain as a result of any illegal operation, driving, or moving of the vehicle, object, or contrivance, or as a result of operating, driving, or moving any vehicle, object, or contrivance weighing in excess of the maximum weight, or over the maximum dimensions in this chapter but authorized by a special permit issued as provided in this chapter.
(b)
Whenever the driver is not the owner of a vehicle, object, or contrivance, but is so operating, driving, or moving it with the express or implied permission of the owner, then the owner and driver shall be jointly and severally liable for the damage.
(c)
Damage may be recovered in a civil action brought by the authorities in control of the highway or highway structure.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 35, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 31-25-28; P.L. 2022, ch. 178, § 1, effective June 27, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 179, § 1, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-25 - Size, Weight, and Load Limits › Section 31-25-29. - Refuse-hauling vehicles — Exemption from permit.

§ 31-25-29. Refuse-hauling vehicles — Exemption from permit.
Notwithstanding any contrary provisions of this chapter, a motor vehicle designed and used for the hauling of refuse shall not be subject to state axle weight restrictions when hauling refuse. Nothing in this provision shall waive or modify existing state gross weight restrictions for refuse vehicles or other size and weight restrictions. To the extent that application of this section to highways which are part of the national system of interstate and defense highways would cause this state to be deprived of any federal funds for highway purposes, this section shall not be applicable to highways which are part of the system. Nothing in this section shall permit these vehicles to travel over any structure, highway, or portion of highway that is weight restricted for the vehicle load.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 438, § 1; P.L. 2022, ch. 178, § 1, effective June 27, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 179, § 1, effective June 27, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-25 - Size, Weight, and Load Limits › Section 31-25-30. - Repealed.

§ 31-25-30. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2011, ch. 122, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 310, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2011, ch. 122, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 310, § 2, effective June 12, 2011, and shall be repealed two (2) years subsequent to such date or upon the closure of the existing structures.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-2. - Duty to stop in accidents resulting in damage to vehicle.

§ 31-26-2. Duty to stop in accidents resulting in damage to vehicle.
The driver of any vehicle knowingly involved in an accident resulting only in damage to a vehicle which is driven or attended by any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to it as possible, but shall immediately return to and in every event shall remain at the scene of the accident until he or she has fulfilled the requirements of § 31-26-3. A stop shall be made without obstructing traffic more than is necessary. Any person failing to stop or comply with these requirements under the circumstances shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), and/or his or her driver’s license or operating privilege in the state may be suspended for a period up to six (6) months, and/or he or she may be imprisoned for a period not to exceed 6 months.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 2; P.L. 1950 (s.s.), ch. 2639, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-2; P.L. 1992, ch. 441, § 1; P.L. 2009, ch. 329, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-3. - Duty to give information and render aid.

§ 31-26-3. Duty to give information and render aid.
(a)
The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in the striking of, the injury to, or death of any person or damage to any vehicle which is driven or attended by any person shall, upon request, give his or her name, address, and the registration number of the vehicle the driver is driving and shall exhibit his or her operator’s or chauffeur’s license to the person struck, or to the driver or occupant, or to the person attending any vehicle collided with. The driver shall render to any person injured or struck in an accident reasonable assistance, and shall immediately, by the quickest means of communication known to the driver or which should have reasonably been known to the driver to be available in the locality, give notice of the accident to a nearby office of local or state police. In the event the office so notified does not have jurisdiction of the locale of the accident, it shall be the duty of the officer receiving the notice to immediately give notice of the accident to the office having jurisdiction.
(b)
The officer receiving the notice set forth in subsection (a) of this section shall, if the circumstances reasonably require, immediately dispatch an ambulance or emergency medical service to the scene of the accident. Any police or fire department responding to a call for emergency medical service or assistance to a person injured in an accident shall continue to the locale of the accident even though it is outside the jurisdiction of the department and shall render any emergency service that is reasonably necessary.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 3; P.L. 1951, ch. 2826, § 17; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-3; P.L. 1968, ch. 107, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 297, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-3.1. - Duty to stop in accidents resulting in death or injury to domesticated animals.

§ 31-26-3.1. Duty to stop in accidents resulting in death or injury to domesticated animals.
(a)
The driver of any vehicle knowingly involved in an accident resulting in death or injury to a domesticated animal, shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to it as possible, but shall immediately return to and in every event shall remain at the scene of the accident until the driver shall render all possible assistance to the injured animal. The driver shall immediately, by the quickest means of communication known to the driver or which should have reasonably been known to be available to the driver to be available in the locality, give notice of the accident to the owner of the animal if known to the driver or to a nearby office of local or state police. In the event the office so notified does not have jurisdiction of the locale of the accident, it shall be the duty of the officer receiving the notice to give notice immediately of the accident to the office having jurisdiction.
(b)
Any person failing to stop or comply with the requirements of this section shall upon conviction be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars ($50.00).
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 31-26-3; P.L. 1959, ch. 175, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-3.2. - Immediate notice of accident.

§ 31-26-3.2. Immediate notice of accident.
The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person, or any vehicle other than a vehicle moved by human power becoming so disabled as to prevent its normal and safe operation, shall immediately by the quickest means of communication give notice of the accident to the nearest office of a duly authorized police authority.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-3.3. - Duty to stop in accidents involving motor vehicles and bicycles not resulting in serious bodily injury or death — Duty to give information and render aid — Penalty.

§ 31-26-3.3. Duty to stop in accidents involving motor vehicles and bicycles not resulting in serious bodily injury or death — Duty to give information and render aid — Penalty.
(a)
The driver of any vehicle knowingly involved in an accident with a person riding a bicycle shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to it as possible, and shall immediately return to and in every event shall remain at the scene of the accident. The driver shall render to any person injured or struck in an accident reasonable assistance, and shall immediately, by the quickest means of communication known to the driver or which should have reasonably been known to the driver to be available in the locality, give notice of the accident to a nearby office of local or state police. In the event the office so notified does not have jurisdiction of the locale of the accident, it shall be the duty of the officer receiving the notice to immediately give notice of the accident to the office having jurisdiction.
(b)
The officer receiving the notice set forth in subsection (a) of this section shall, if the circumstances reasonably require, immediately dispatch an ambulance or emergency medical service to the scene of the accident. Any police or fire department responding to a call for emergency medical service or assistance to a person injured in an accident shall continue to the locale of the accident even though it is outside the jurisdiction of the department and shall render any emergency service that is reasonably necessary.
(c)
The driver of the vehicle shall, upon request, give his or her name, address, and registration number of the vehicle the driver is driving and shall exhibit his/her operator’s or chauffeur’s license to the person struck, but in any event shall remain at the scene of the accident until he/she has fulfilled the requirements of § 31-26-3.
(d)
Any person failing to stop or comply with these requirements under the circumstances shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500) nor more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), and may have his or her driver’s license or operating privilege in this state suspended for up to six (6) months.
History of Section.
P.L. 2006, ch. 585, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-4. - Duty on collision with unattended vehicle.

§ 31-26-4. Duty on collision with unattended vehicle.
The driver of any vehicle which collides with another vehicle which is unattended and damage results to either vehicle shall immediately stop and shall then and there either locate and notify the operator or owner of the unattended vehicle of the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle striking the unattended vehicle or shall leave in a conspicuous place in or upon the unattended vehicle a notice written in the English language giving the name and address of the driver and of the owner of the vehicle doing the striking and a statement of the circumstances of the collision, and shall immediately give notice of the accident to a nearby office of local or state police. In the event the office so notified does not have jurisdiction of the locale of the accident, it shall be the duty of the officer receiving the notice to immediately give notice of the accident to the office having jurisdiction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 4; P.L. 1951, ch. 2826, § 18; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-5. - Duty in accident resulting in damage to highway fixtures.

§ 31-26-5. Duty in accident resulting in damage to highway fixtures.
The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to fixtures legally upon or adjacent to a highway shall take reasonable steps to locate and notify the owner or person in charge of the property of the fact and of his or her name and address and of the registration number of the vehicle the driver is driving. The driver shall upon request exhibit his or her operator’s or chauffeur’s license and shall immediately give notice of the accident to a nearby office of local or state police. In the event the office so notified does not have jurisdiction of the locale of the accident, it shall be the duty of the officer receiving the notice to immediately give notice of the accident to the office having jurisdiction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 5; P.L. 1951, ch. 2826, § 19; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-6. - Drivers required to make written reports.

§ 31-26-6. Drivers required to make written reports.
The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person or in which the damage to property of any one person, including himself or herself, in excess of one thousand dollars ($1000) is sustained, shall, within twenty-one (21) days after the accident, forward a written report of the accident to the division of motor vehicles, on forms provided by the division of motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-6; P.L. 1966, ch. 128, § 1; P.L. 1968, ch. 185, § 2; P.L. 1974, ch. 142, § 1; P.L. 1975, ch. 64, § 1; P.L. 1982, ch. 40, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 48, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 124, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 253, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-7. - Supplemental reports.

§ 31-26-7. Supplemental reports.
The division of motor vehicles may require any driver of a vehicle involved in an accident of which a report must be made as provided in § 31-26-6 to file supplemental reports whenever the original report is insufficient in the opinion of the division of motor vehicles.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-8. - Reports by owner when driver incapable.

§ 31-26-8. Reports by owner when driver incapable.
Whenever the driver is physically incapable of making a written report of an accident as required in § 31-26-6 and the driver is not the owner of the vehicle, then the owner of the vehicle involved in the accident shall within twenty one (21) days after learning of the accident make the report not made by the driver.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-8; P.L. 1969, ch. 136, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 428, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-9. - Reports by law enforcement officers.

§ 31-26-9. Reports by law enforcement officers.
(a)
Every law enforcement officer who, in the regular course of duty, investigates a motor vehicle accident of which a report must be made as required and in accordance with subsections (a), (b), (d) and (e) of this section, either at the time of and at the scene of the accident or thereafter by interviewing participants or witnesses shall, effective January 1, 2003, submit all investigated and reportable accident reports to the department of transportation electronically. The form utilized shall be the newly revised accident form developed by the department of transportation in cooperation with the division of motor vehicles. The electronic accident report shall be transferred using the Rhode Island Accident Data Export Manager over the Rhode Island Law Enforcement Telecommunication System (RILETS) to the department of transportation.
(b)
The law enforcement agency or its contracted agent shall transmit an electronic accident report to the department of transportation within fourteen (14) days of the investigation or preparing of the report and may maintain a copy locally.
(c)
The driver of a vehicle that is involved in an accident shall submit the motorist accident report form to the division of motor vehicles within twenty-one (21) days of the accident, pursuant to § 31-26-6.
(d)
Any accident occurring on a highway or upon premises open to the public resulting in injury or death to any person or damage to property equal to or in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000) is subject to the reporting requirements. In addition, the division of motor vehicles will take action on reported accidents in excess of five hundred dollars ($500) for compliance with the state financial responsibility law pursuant to § 31-26-6.
(e)
The department of transportation shall serve as the accident data repository agency for the electronic accident reports submitted by the law enforcement agencies in the state, and the division of motor vehicles shall remain as the repository agency for all motorist accident reports. “Personal information,” as defined in § 11-49.3-3, and associated with accident reports submitted pursuant to this section shall remain privileged except that the information may be provided to an involved party to the accident or their legal representative, an insurance company, or insurance-support organization or in accordance with Rhode Island general laws.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-9; P.L. 2001, ch. 166, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 418, § 1, effective July 14, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 419, § 1, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-10. - Accident report forms — Contents.

§ 31-26-10. Accident report forms — Contents.
The division of motor vehicles shall prepare and upon request supply to police departments and other suitable agencies or individuals, forms for accident reports required by this chapter, appropriate with respect to the persons required to make those reports and the purposes to be served. The written reports to be made by persons involved in accidents and by investigating officers shall call for sufficiently detailed information to disclose with reference to a traffic accident the cause, conditions then existing, and the persons and vehicle involved.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-11. - Penalties for failure to report.

§ 31-26-11. Penalties for failure to report.
The administrator of the division of motor vehicles shall suspend the license or permit to drive, and any nonresident operating privileges, of any person failing to report an accident as provided in this chapter until the report has been filed. Any person convicted of failing to make a report as required in this chapter shall be punished as provided in § 31-27-13.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 9; P.L. 1950 (s.s), ch. 2639, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-12. - Garage reports of bullet damage.

§ 31-26-12. Garage reports of bullet damage.
The person in charge of any garage or repair shop to which is brought any motor vehicle which shows evidence of having been struck by any bullet, shall report to the nearest local or state police after the motor vehicle is received, giving the engine number, registration number, and the name and address of the owner or operator of the vehicle.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-13. - Reports confidential — Use as evidence.

§ 31-26-13. Reports confidential — Use as evidence.
(a)
All motorist accident reports made by persons involved in accidents, pursuant to § 31-26-6, or by garages, pursuant to § 31-26-12, shall be without prejudice to the individual so reporting and shall be for the confidential use of the division of motor vehicles or other state or municipal agencies having use for the records for accident prevention purposes or for the administration of the laws of this state relating to the deposit of security and proof of financial responsibility by persons driving or the owners of motor vehicles.
(b)
The division of motor vehicles may disclose the identity of a person involved in an accident when the identity is not otherwise known or when the person denies his or her presence at the accident, and except that the reports, as well as police reports, may be used by the division of motor vehicles, together with any other evidence that the division of motor vehicles may deem appropriate, to make determinations as to the reasonable possibility of a judgment being rendered for purposes of requiring security after an accident involving one or more uninsured motorists.
(c)
No report shall be used as evidence in any trial, civil or criminal, arising out of an accident, except that the division of motor vehicles shall furnish upon demand of any person who has, or claims to have, made a report or upon demand of any court, a certificate showing that a specified accident report has or has not been made to the division of motor vehicles solely to prove a compliance or a failure to comply with the requirement that a report be made to the division. Provided, that in the event an accident report has not been filed, then the failure to file the report shall be considered to be prima facie evidence that the operator and/or the registered owner of the motor vehicle involved was uninsured at the time of the accident.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-13; P.L. 1971, ch. 133, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 141, § 1; P.L. 2021, ch. 418, § 1, effective July 14, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 419, § 1, effective July 14, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-14. - Tabulation and publication of statistical information.

§ 31-26-14. Tabulation and publication of statistical information.
The division of motor vehicles shall tabulate and may analyze all accident reports and shall publish annually, or at more frequent intervals, statistical information based on the reports as to the number and circumstances of traffic accidents.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-15. - Reports required by municipalities.

§ 31-26-15. Reports required by municipalities.
Any incorporated city, town, village, or other municipality may by ordinance require that the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident shall also file with a designated city or town department a report of the accident or a copy of any report that is required to be filed with the division of motor vehicles. All the reports shall be for the confidential use of the city or town department and subject to the provisions of § 31-26-13.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 23, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 31-26-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-26 - Accidents and Accident Reports › Section 31-26-16. - Uniform statewide motor vehicle accident police report.

§ 31-26-16. Uniform statewide motor vehicle accident police report.
(a)
There is established a uniform statewide motor vehicle accident police report which shall be used by the Rhode Island state police and all other state or municipal police departments.
(b)
This report shall include any information that the superintendent of the Rhode Island state police in consultation with the Municipal Police Chiefs Association shall deem appropriate.
(c)
The failure of a police department to use the uniform report form when taking a report shall not be used:
(1)
By a defendant in a criminal prosecution or violation hearing as grounds for challenge to, or dismissal of, any charges or citations arising out of the motor vehicle accident; or
(2)
As a basis to challenge the admissibility of a police report in any administrative or judicial proceeding, civil or criminal.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 183, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 166, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-1. - Driving so as to endanger, resulting in death.

§ 31-27-1. Driving so as to endanger, resulting in death.
(a)
When the death of any person ensues as a proximate result of an injury received by the operation of any vehicle in reckless disregard of the safety of others, including violations of § 31-27-22, the person so operating the vehicle shall be guilty of “driving so as to endanger, resulting in death”.
(b)
Any person charged with the commission of this offense shall upon conviction be imprisoned for not more than ten (10) years and have his or her license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for no more than five (5) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 24, § 1; P.L. 1950 (s. s.), ch. 2639, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-27-1; P.L. 1978, ch. 208, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 121, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 193, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-1.1. - Driving so as to endanger, resulting in serious personal injury.

§ 31-27-1.1. Driving so as to endanger, resulting in serious personal injury.
(a)
When the serious bodily injury of any person ensues as a proximate result of the operation of any vehicle in reckless disregard of the safety of others, including violations of § 31-27-22, the person so operating the vehicle shall be guilty of “driving so as to endanger, resulting in serious bodily injury”.
(b)
“Serious bodily injury” means physical injury that creates a substantial risk of death or causes serious permanent disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.
(c)
Any person charged with a violation of this section shall upon conviction be imprisoned for not more than five (5) years and have his or her license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for no more than three (3) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 184, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 121, § 2; P.L. 2007, ch. 193, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-1.2. - Driving so as to endanger, resulting in physical injury.

§ 31-27-1.2. Driving so as to endanger, resulting in physical injury.
(a)
When the physical injury of any person ensues as a proximate result of the operation of any vehicle in reckless disregard of the safety of others, including violations of § 31-27-22, the person so operating the vehicle shall be guilty of “driving so as to endanger, resulting in physical injury”.
(b)
Any person charged with a violation of this section shall upon conviction be imprisoned for not more than two (2) years and have his or her license to operate a motor vehicle be suspended for no more than one year.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 121, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 193, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-2.3. - Revocation of license upon refusal to submit to preliminary breath test.

§ 31-27-2.3. Revocation of license upon refusal to submit to preliminary breath test.
(a)
When a law enforcement officer has reason to believe that a person is driving or in actual physical control of any motor vehicle in this state while under the influence of alcohol, the law enforcement officer may require the person to submit to a preliminary breath analysis for the purpose of determining the person’s blood alcohol content. The breath analysis must be administered immediately upon the law enforcement officer’s formulation of a reasonable belief that the person is driving or in actual control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, or immediately upon the stop of the person, whichever is later in time. Any chemical breath analysis required under this section must be administered with a device and in a manner approved by the director of the department of health for that purpose. The result of a preliminary chemical breath analysis may be used for the purpose of guiding the officer in deciding whether an arrest should be made. When a driver is arrested following a preliminary breath analysis, tests may be taken pursuant to § 31-27-2.1. The results of a preliminary breath test may not be used as evidence in any administrative or court proceeding involving driving while intoxicated or refusing to take a breathalyzer test, except as evidence of probable cause in making the initial arrest.
(b)
If a person refuses, upon a lawful request of a law enforcement officer, to submit to a test under subsection (a) of this section, that person shall be guilty of an infraction and shall be subject to the penalty provided in § 31-41.1-4. However, it shall be a defense to a charge of refusing a validly requested preliminary breath analysis that the medical condition of a person precluded the giving of any such test.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 326, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 123.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-2.4. - Driving while in possession of controlled substances.

§ 31-27-2.4. Driving while in possession of controlled substances.
(a)
In addition to any other penalty prescribed by law, whoever operates any motor vehicle while knowingly having in the motor vehicle or in his or her possession, a controlled substance, as defined in § 21-28-1.02, except for possession of up to one ounce (1 oz.) of marijuana, shall have his or her license suspended for a period of six (6) months.
(b)
This section shall not apply to any person who lawfully possesses a controlled substance, as defined in § 21-28-1.02, as a direct result and pursuant to a valid prescription from a licensed medical practitioner, or as otherwise authorized by chapter 28 of title 21.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 334, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 221, § 3; P.L. 2012, ch. 233, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-2.6. - Driving under the influence of liquor or drugs, resulting in serious bodily injury.

§ 31-27-2.6. Driving under the influence of liquor or drugs, resulting in serious bodily injury.
(a)
When serious bodily injury of any person other than the operator is caused by the operation of any motor vehicle, the operator of which is under the influence of any intoxicating liquor, toluene, or any controlled substance as defined in chapter 28 of title 21 or any combination of these, the person so operating the vehicle shall be guilty of driving under the influence of liquor or drugs, resulting in serious bodily injury.
(b)
As used in this section, “serious bodily injury” means physical injury that creates a substantial risk of death or causes serious physical disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.
(c)
Any person charged with the commission of the offense set forth in subsection (a) of this section shall, upon conviction, be punished by imprisonment for not less than one year and for not more than ten (10) years and by a fine of not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) nor more than five thousand dollars ($5,000). The sentencing judge shall have the discretion to sentence the person to any unit of the adult correctional institutions. The license of the person may be revoked for a period of up to two (2) years. The license privilege shall not be reinstated until evidence satisfactory to the administrator of the division of motor vehicles establishes that no grounds exist which would authorize refusal to issue a license and until the person gives proof of financial responsibility pursuant to chapter 32 of this title. In addition, the person convicted may be required to successfully complete alcohol or drug treatment, at their own expense, in a program established by the director of the department of corrections.
(d)
For a second or subsequent conviction under this section within a five (5) year period, a person shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than two (2) years nor more than fifteen (15) years and by a fine of not less than three thousand dollars ($3,000) nor more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000). The sentencing judge shall have the discretion to sentence the person to any unit of the adult correctional institutions. In addition, the person convicted may be required to successfully complete alcohol or drug treatment, at their own expense, in a program established by the director of the department of corrections. The license of the person may be revoked for a period of up to four (4) years. The license privilege shall not thereafter be reinstated until evidence satisfactory to the administrator of the division of motor vehicles establishes that no grounds exist which would authorize refusal to issue a license and until the person gives proof of financial responsibility pursuant to chapter 32 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 571, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 363, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 130, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-2.7. - Driving while impaired.

§ 31-27-2.7. Driving while impaired.
(a)
A person under the age of twenty-one (21) but at least eighteen (18) years of age who takes a test, as provided for in § 31-27-2, at the request of a law enforcement officer who believes the person to be driving under the influence of alcohol, shall be determined to have been driving while impaired if the test determines the person’s blood alcohol concentration to be at least two-hundredths of one percent (.02%) but less than eight one hundredths of one percent (.08%) by weight.
(b)
Should, after a hearing in district court, it be determined that: the results of the test are admissible in that it meets all of the conditions, as set forth in § 31-27-2; and the person has been afforded his or her rights as set forth in § 31-27-2; then the judge shall order as follows:
(1)
A fine of not more than two hundred and fifty dollars ($250) and thirty (30) hours of community restitution. The fine shall be deposited in the general fund.
(2)
The person’s driving license shall be suspended for not less than one nor more than three (3) months on a first violation, provided the person also shall attend a special course in driving while intoxicated and provided that the person shall also attend an alcohol and/or drug treatment program if ordered by the district court judge. Failure or refusal of the person to attend the course and/or alcohol or drug treatment program shall result in the person’s driving license being suspended until such time as the course and/or treatment program has been completed.
(3)
On a second and subsequent violation of the section, the person shall be fined not more than two hundred and fifty dollars ($250) together with a highway safety assessment of three hundred dollars ($300) and shall be required to perform up to sixty (60) hours of community restitution. The person’s driving license shall be suspended for not less than three (3) months nor more than six (6) months. The sentencing judge shall also require the person to attend a special course in driving while intoxicated and also attend an alcohol and/or drug treatment program.
(c)
No suspension, assessments, driving while intoxicated school, or alcohol and/or drug treatment programs under this section can be suspended, shortened, altered, or changed.
(d)
Any violation of the section shall not be considered a criminal offense.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 329, § 2; P.L. 1994, ch. 70, art. 35, § 7; P.L. 1995, ch. 164, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 217, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 317, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 390, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-2.9. - Administration of chemical test.

§ 31-27-2.9. Administration of chemical test.
(a)
Notwithstanding any provision of § 31-27-2.1, if an individual refuses to consent to a chemical test as provided in § 31-27-2.1, and a peace officer, as defined in § 12-7-21, has probable cause to believe that the individual has violated one or more of the following sections: 31-27-1, 31-27-1.1, 31-27-2.2, or 31-27-2.6 and that the individual was operating a motor vehicle under the influence of any intoxicating liquor, toluene or any controlled substance as defined in chapter 21-28, or any combination thereof, a chemical test may be administered without the consent of that individual provided that the peace officer first obtains a search warrant authorizing administration of the chemical test. The chemical test shall determine the amount of the alcohol or the presence of a controlled substance in that person’s blood, saliva or breath.
(b)
The chemical test shall be administered in accordance with the methods approved by the director of the department of health as provided for in subdivision 31-27-2(c)(4). The individual shall be afforded the opportunity to have an additional chemical test as established in subdivision 31-27-2(c)(6).
(c)
Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, including, but not limited to, chapter 5-37.3, any health care provider who, as authorized by the search warrant in subsection (a):
(i)
Takes a blood, saliva or breath sample from an individual; or
(ii)
Performs the chemical test; or
(iii)
Provides information to a peace officer pursuant to subsection (a) above and who uses reasonable care and accepted medical practices shall not be liable in any civil or criminal proceeding arising from the taking of the sample, from the performance of the chemical test or from the disclosure or release of the test results.
(d)
The results of a chemical test performed pursuant to this section shall be admissible as competent evidence in any civil or criminal prosecution provided that evidence is presented in compliance with the conditions set forth in subdivisions 31-27-2(c)(3), 31-27-2(c)(4) and 31-27-2(c)(6).
(e)
All chemical tests administered pursuant to this section shall be audio and video recorded by the law enforcement agency which applied for and was granted the search warrant authorizing the administration of the chemical test.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 210, § 2; P.L. 2009, ch. 211, § 2; P.L. 2022, ch. 31, § 12, effective May 25, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 32, § 12, effective May 25, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 31 - Motor and Other Vehicles › Chapter 31-27 - Motor Vehicle Offenses › Section 31-27-3. - Right of person charged with operating under influence to physical examination.

§ 31-27-3. Right of person charged with operating under influence to physical examination.
A person arrested and charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of narcotic drugs or intoxicating liquor, whatever its alcoholic content, shall have the right to be examined at his or her own expense immediately after the person’s arrest by a physician selected by the person, and the officer so arresting or so charging the person shall immediately inform the person of this right and afford the person a reasonable opportunity to exercise the right, and at the trial of the person the prosecution must prove that he or she was so informed and was afforded that opportunity.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 24, § 2; P.L. 1950 (s.s.), ch. 2639, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 31-27-3.