Rhode Island § 31-19-12 - Operation of Bicycles
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-19-12 — Operation of Bicycles, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-19-12. Operation of Bicycles
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-19-12
§ 31-19-12. Bicycles on sidewalks and crosswalks — Rights and duties.
A person propelling a vehicle by human power or operating an electric personal assistive mobility device (“EPAMD”) upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall be granted all the rights and shall be subject to all the duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances; provided, however, that a person riding an electric personal assistive mobility device (“EPAMD”) on a sidewalk or a bicycle path or trail shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians or give an audible signal before overtaking any passing pedestrian. Pedestrians using an EPAMD shall exercise a high degree of care when passing a pedestrian using a wheelchair, walker or other mobility aid and only pass when the width of the sidewalk exceeds five (5) feet. For purposes of this section electric personal assistive mobility devices (“EPAMD”) and electric motorized bicycles shall be prohibited from sidewalks and crosswalks in the town of New Shoreham.
History of Section.
P.L. 1976, ch. 58, § 2; P.L. 2002, ch. 56, § 4; P.L. 2002, ch. 136, § 3; P.L. 2002,
ch. 397, § 3.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-19-12
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-19-12 cover?
Section 31-19-12 ("Operation of Bicycles") 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 § 31-19-12?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-19-12" (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 § 31-19-12 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.