Rhode Island § 31-20-1 - Special Stops Required
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-20-1 — Special Stops Required, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-20-1. Special Stops Required
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-20-1
§ 31-20-1. When railroad crossing stops required of all vehicles.
Whenever any person driving a vehicle approaches a railroad grade crossing under any of the circumstances stated in this section the driver of the vehicle shall stop within fifty feet (50′) but not less than fifteen feet (15′) from the nearest rail of the railroad, and shall not proceed until he or she can do so safely. These foregoing requirements shall apply when:
(1) A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device gives warning of the immediate approach of a railroad train;
(2) A crossing gate is lowered or when a human flagman gives or continues to give a signal of the approach or passage of a railroad train;
(3) A railroad train approaching within approximately one thousand five hundred feet (1,500′) of the highway crossing emits a signal audible from that distance, and the railroad train, by reason of its speed or nearness to the crossing, is an immediate hazard;
(4) An approaching railroad train is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing.
(5) Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 31, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-20-1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 117.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-20-1
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-20-1 cover?
Section 31-20-1 ("Special Stops Required") 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 § 31-20-1?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-20-1" (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 § 31-20-1 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.