Rhode Island § 31-24-37 - Lighting Equipment and Reflectors

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-24-37 — Lighting Equipment and Reflectors, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 31-24-37. Lighting Equipment and Reflectors

R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-24-37

§ 31-24-37. Clearance and marker lamps and reflectors.

In addition to other equipment required in chapters 1 — 27 of this title, the following vehicles shall be equipped as follows under the conditions stated in § 31-24-36.

(1) On every bus or truck, whatever its size, there shall be the following:

(i) On the rear, two (2) reflectors, one at each side; and

(ii) On the rear, one stop light.

(2) On every bus or truck eighty inches (80") or more in overall width, in addition to the requirements in subdivision (1) of this section:

(i) On the front, two (2) clearance lamps, one at each side;

(ii) On the rear, two (2) clearance lamps, one at each side;

(iii) On each side, two (2) side marker lamps, one at or near the front and one at or near the rear;

(iv) On each side, two (2) reflectors, one at or near the front and one at or near the rear.

(3) On every truck tractor:

(i) On the front, two (2) clearance lamps, one at each side;

(ii) On the rear, one stop light.

(4) On every trailer or semi-trailer having a gross weight in excess of three thousand pounds (3,000 lbs.):

(i) On the front, two (2) clearance lamps, one at each side;

(ii) On each side, two (2) side marker lamps, one at or near the front and one at or near the rear;

(iii) On each side, two (2) reflectors, one at or near the front and one at or near the rear;

(iv) On the rear, two (2) clearance lamps, one at each side;

(v) On the rear, two (2) reflectors, one at each side; and

(vi) On the rear, one stop light.

(5) On every pole trailer in excess of three thousand pounds (3,000 lbs.) gross weight:

(i) On each side, one side marker lamp and one clearance lamp which may be in combination, to show to the front, side, and rear.

(ii) On the rear of the pole trailer or load, two (2) reflectors, one at each side.

(6) On every trailer, semi-trailer, or pole trailer weighing three thousand pounds (3,000 lbs.) gross or less:

(i) On the rear, two (2) reflectors, one on each side. If any trailer or semi-trailer is so loaded or is of such dimensions as to obscure the stop light on the towing vehicle, then the vehicle shall also be equipped with one stop light.

(7) Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.

History of Section.
P.L. 1950, ch. 2595, art. 34, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 31-24-37; P.L. 2002, ch. 292, § 121.

Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-24-37

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-24-37 cover?

Section 31-24-37 ("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 § 31-24-37?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-24-37" (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 § 31-24-37 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.