Penalties Enforced by Law
- 1/21When a driver speeds through a red light at a busy junction
Running a red light puts others at high risk. Rhode Island enforces this violation strictly with fines and points. It may also increase your insurance premium.
While turning without using a signal in a moderate traffic
Signaling is required to alert others. Failure to do so can confuse nearby drivers and lead to collisions. It adds demerit points.
When police flash lights and signal you to pull over
Failing to stop for police is considered evasion. It leads to arrest, fines, and suspension of driving privileges.
At a stop sign with no cars nearby
Rolling through a stop sign is still a violation. You must come to a complete stop every time. Officers often watch for this behavior.
If you are caught for speeding in a construction zone then
Construction zones double fines due to increased danger. Speed limits there protect both workers and drivers. Signs will indicate reduced limits.
When you overtake a school bus with flashing red lights
Passing a stopped school bus puts children at risk. Rhode Island laws allow for license suspension and heavy fines.
While texting when driving in a normal traffic you will be
Using a phone while driving is dangerous. It distracts attention from the road and increases crash risk. Enforcement is strict.
At a railroad crossing with an active warning signal
Flashing signals mean a train is approaching. Crossing during signals is illegal and highly dangerous. Fines and points apply.
When driving with a suspended or revoked license
Operating a vehicle without valid licensing is a serious violation. It often results in the car being towed and court action.
If you drive past a Do Not Enter sign on a one-way road. It is a
Entering a restricted one-way zone can cause head-on collisions. Police may issue a citation on the spot.
If you refuse a breath test during a DUI stop then
Refusing a chemical test triggers automatic penalties. Your license may be revoked even without a conviction.
When under 21 and found for driving after drinking alcohol
Rhode Island follows a zero-tolerance policy. Even small traces of alcohol under age 21 result in fines and suspension.
When you are stopped while driving under influence of marijuana, it will be
Drug-impaired driving is illegal. Even cannabis use, legal in some contexts, results in DUI charges if you are impaired.
If your car is found without valid registration during a stop then
Driving without registration is unlawful. The vehicle can be impounded until proof of valid documents is shown.
When a police officer gives a verbal traffic direction then
Officer commands override signs or lights. Ignoring them leads to obstruction charges or citation. Always follow their direction.
While tailgating another car at high speed
Aggressive following increases crash risk. It is considered reckless behavior and is punished severely in Rhode Island.
If you are caught for driving at 30 mph over the speed limit
Excessive speeding is treated as a serious violation. You may face license suspension or court summons.
At a traffic checkpoint, if intoxicated, then
Police will perform sobriety tests. If failed, you’ll be arrested and your license may be suspended immediately.
If you park in a fire lane outside a store, then your vehicle will be
Fire lanes must remain clear for emergencies. Parking there, even briefly, results in towing and financial penalties.
When caught driving with a suspended insurance policy, you may
Driving uninsured is illegal. It carries harsh financial penalties, and your car may be impounded on the spot.
When found intoxicated while driving with a child in the car then it will be considered as
DUI with minors is a severe offense. It leads to felony charges and long-term license suspension. Judges treat it harshly.