Rhode Island § 31-7-9 - Foreign Vehicles

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-7-9 — Foreign Vehicles, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 31-7-9. Foreign Vehicles

R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-7-9

§ 31-7-9. Offenses — Nonresident bond posting.

Every nonresident operator, who is charged by a member of the state police or by a member of the police department of any city or town of this state with a violation of any provision of chapters 14, 15, and 16 of this title, except for a violation included under chapter 41 of this title, may be required to deposit in escrow the sum of twenty-five dollars ($25.00), or to post a proper bond for that amount, with the state or local police department preferring the charge as a prerequisite to the nonresident operator being released for appearance at a later date before the court of proper jurisdiction upon the charge. The deposit so posted shall be returned to the nonresident, or the bond so posted shall be cancelled, upon the nonresident’s appearance before the court of proper jurisdiction for the disposition of the offense charged and effectuation of sentence, if any. If the nonresident shall fail to appear before the court of proper jurisdiction on the date and at the time assigned for the disposition of the offense charged, the deposit or bond, as the case may be, shall be forfeited and paid over to the clerk of court to be disbursed as if the defendant had been convicted and a fine and costs equal to that sum had been imposed.

History of Section.
P.L. 1967, ch. 216, § 1; P.L. 1971, ch. 177, § 2; P.L. 1992, ch. 324, § 14.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-7-9

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-7-9 cover?

Section 31-7-9 ("Foreign Vehicles") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Rhode Island § 31-7-9?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-7-9" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.

How does Rhode Island § 31-7-9 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.