Rhode Island § 9-1-50 - Causes of Action
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 9-1-50 — Causes of Action, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-1-50. Causes of Action
R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-50
§ 9-1-50. Settled claims not paid within thirty (30) days.
(a) Whenever any claim is settled, the insurance company, adjusting company, or any other person, firm, or corporation responsible for paying the settlement shall make payment within thirty (30) days from the date the claimant or the claimant’s attorney sends the release. The signed release may be transmitted to the party responsible for paying the settlement or their attorney in electronic format. Failure to make payment within thirty (30) days shall raise a presumption that failure to do so was a willful and wanton disregard for the rights of the claimant. In addition to all other remedies, the payor shall be liable to the claimant in a separate cause of action for punitive damages and interest which shall be computed at the rate of twelve percent (12%) per annum from the date the cause of action giving rise to the settlement occurred until the judgment on the claim brought pursuant to this section is entered.
(b) Any claim brought under the provisions of this section shall be given a priority on the trial calendar.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 341, § 1; P.L. 2023, ch. 150, § 1, effective June 20, 2023; P.L. 2023,
ch. 151, § 1, effective June 20, 2023.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 9-1-50
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 9-1-50 cover?
Section 9-1-50 ("Causes of Action") 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 § 9-1-50?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 9-1-50" (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 § 9-1-50 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.