Rhode Island § 31-42-8 - Abandoned Motor Vehicles
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-42-8 — Abandoned Motor Vehicles, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-42-8. Abandoned Motor Vehicles
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-42-8
§ 31-42-8. Duties of demolishers.
(a) Any demolisher who purchases or otherwise acquires a motor vehicle for purposes of wrecking, dismantling, or demolition shall not be required to obtain a registration for the motor vehicle in his or her own name. After the motor vehicle has been demolished, processed, or changed so that it physically is no longer a motor vehicle, the demolisher shall surrender for cancellation the registration or auction sales receipt. The state division of motor vehicles shall issue any forms, rules, and regulations governing the surrender of auction sales receipts and registrations that are appropriate.
(b) A demolisher shall keep an accurate and complete record of all motor vehicles purchased or received by the demolisher in the course of his or her business. These records shall contain the name and address of the person from whom the motor vehicle was purchased or received and the date when the purchases or receipts occurred. The records shall be open for inspection by any police department at any time during normal business hours. Any record required by this section shall be kept by the demolisher for at least one year after the transaction to which it applies.
History of Section.
P.L. 1971, ch. 234, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-42-8
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-42-8 cover?
Section 31-42-8 ("Abandoned Motor Vehicles") 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 § 31-42-8?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-42-8" (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 § 31-42-8 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.