Rhode Island § 31-17-6 - Right-Of-Way
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-17-6 — Right-Of-Way, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-17-6. Right-Of-Way
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-17-6
§ 31-17-6. Yielding to emergency vehicle.
(a) Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle equipped with at least one lighted lamp exhibiting any one or combination of red, blue, or white light visible under normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of five hundred feet (500′) to the front of the vehicle, and producing an audible signal by siren, exhaust whistle, or bell, the driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection and shall stop and remain in that position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer.
(b) This section shall not operate to relieve the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 28, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 31-17-6; P.L. 1993, ch. 369, § 1;
P.L. 1999, ch. 446, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-17-6
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-17-6 cover?
Section 31-17-6 ("Right-Of-Way") 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 § 31-17-6?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-17-6" (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 § 31-17-6 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.