Rhode Island § 9-1-18 - Causes of Action

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 9-1-18 — Causes of Action, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9-1-18. Causes of Action

R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-18

§ 9-1-18. Effect of absence from state on limitations.

If any person against whom there is or shall be cause for any action, as enumerated in this chapter, in favor of a resident of the state, shall at the time the cause accrues be outside the limits of the state, or being within the state at the time the cause accrues shall go out of the state before the action is barred by the provisions of this chapter, and does not have or leave property or estate in the state that can be attached by process of law, then the person entitled to the action may commence the action, within the time before limited, after the person has returned into the state in such a manner that an action may, with reasonable diligence, be commenced against him or her by the person entitled to the action; provided, however, that no action shall be brought by any person upon a cause of action accruing outside this state which was barred by limitation or otherwise in the state, territory, or country in which the cause of action arose while he or she resided in the state.

History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 252; G.L. 1909, ch. 284, § 5; P.L. 1909, ch. 457, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 334, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 510, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 9-1-18; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 13.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 9-1-18

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 9-1-18 cover?

Section 9-1-18 ("Causes of Action") 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 § 9-1-18?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 9-1-18" (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 § 9-1-18 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.