Rhode Island § 31-24-23 - Lighting Equipment and Reflectors
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-24-23 — Lighting Equipment and Reflectors, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-24-23. Lighting Equipment and Reflectors
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-24-23
§ 31-24-23. Use of multiple beam lamps.
Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated on a roadway or on its shoulder during the times specified in § 31-24-1, the driver shall use a distribution of light, or composite beam, directed high enough and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a safe distance in advance of the vehicle, subject to the following requirements and limitations:
(1) Whenever the driver of a vehicle approaches an oncoming vehicle within five hundred feet (500′), the driver shall use a distribution of light, or composite beam, so aimed that the glaring rays are not projected into the eyes of the oncoming driver. The lowermost distribution of light, or composite beam, specified in subdivision (2) of § 31-24-22, shall be deemed to avoid glare at all times, regardless of road contour and loading.
(2) Whenever the driver of a vehicle follows another vehicle within two hundred feet (200′) to the rear, except when engaged in the act of overtaking and passing, the driver shall use a distribution of light permissible under this chapter other than the upper most distribution of light specified in subdivision (1) of § 31-24-22.
(3) Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 34, § 20; P.L. 1954, ch. 3291, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 31-24-23;
P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 121.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-24-23
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-24-23 cover?
Section 31-24-23 ("Lighting Equipment and Reflectors") 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 § 31-24-23?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-24-23" (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 § 31-24-23 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.