Rhode Island § 31-23-16 - Equipment and Accessories Generally
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-23-16 — Equipment and Accessories Generally, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-23-16. Equipment and Accessories Generally
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-23-16
§ 31-23-16. Windshield and window stickers — Obstructions to clear view — Snow and ice on vehicle.
(a) No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material, or dirt, snow, or ice upon the front windshield, side wings, or side or rear windows of the vehicle which obstructs the driver’s clear view of the highway or any intersecting highway; provided, that the administrator of the division of motor vehicles may permit the placing of special stickers upon the windshield or any of the windows of a motor vehicle in the manner specified by the administrator of the division of motor vehicles.
(b) No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any significant amounts of snow or ice upon the vehicle. The term “significant” is construed as any amount of accumulation which might reasonably be expected, when blowing off the vehicle while driving, to obscure the vision of an operator of another vehicle. However, the natural accumulation of snow while driving during adverse weather conditions shall not constitute a violation of this section. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 34, § 35; P.L. 1952, ch. 2937, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 31-23-16;
P.L. 1983, ch. 255, § 1; P.L. 1984, ch. 415, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 120.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-23-16
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-23-16 cover?
Section 31-23-16 ("Equipment and Accessories Generally") 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 § 31-23-16?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-23-16" (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 § 31-23-16 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.