Rhode Island § 39-8-4 - Railroad Crossings
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 39-8-4 — Railroad Crossings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 39-8-4. Railroad Crossings
R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-8-4
§ 39-8-4. Obstruction of highway crossings.
No railroad corporation, nor its servants or agents, shall willfully or negligently obstruct or unnecessarily use or occupy a highway, city or town way, or street, nor in any case at a street or highway grade crossing, with cars or engines for more than five (5) minutes at one time; and whenever a highway, city or town way or street has been thus used or occupied with cars or engines, no railroad corporation shall again use or occupy the same with cars or engines until a sufficient time, not less than three (3) minutes, has been allowed for the passage across the railroad of such travelers as were ready and waiting to cross when the former occupation ceased. For every violation of the provisions of this section, the corporation shall be fined not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than one hundred dollars ($100).
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 187, § 51; G.L. 1909, ch. 215, § 55; G.L. 1923, ch. 251, § 46; G.L.
1938, ch. 124, § 46; G.L. 1956, § 39-8-4.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 39-8-4
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 39-8-4 cover?
Section 39-8-4 ("Railroad Crossings") 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 § 39-8-4?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 39-8-4" (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 § 39-8-4 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.