Rhode Island § 9-20-5 - Decisions, Special Findings and Assessment of Damages
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 9-20-5 — Decisions, Special Findings and Assessment of Damages, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-20-5. Decisions, Special Findings and Assessment of Damages
R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-20-5
§ 9-20-5. Assumption of risk in use of off-road vehicles.
(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of § 9-20-4, in any legal action against the state or any political subdivision thereof, an operator or passenger of: (1) a recreational vehicle as defined in § 31-3.2-1(8) or (2) a snowmobile as defined in § 31-3.2-1(11), or (3) an all terrain vehicle (A.T.V.), or (4) a motor vehicle primarily designed for use off public roads, shall while on state property assume as a matter of law the risks inherent in such operation insofar as they are obvious and necessary.
(b) The director of the department of environmental management shall post signs warning operators and passengers that they assume the risk of injury while on state property. Provided, however, that the lack of signs shall not be admissible in a suit for negligence.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 535, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 71; P.L. 2004, ch. 6, § 8.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 9-20-5
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 9-20-5 cover?
Section 9-20-5 ("Decisions, Special Findings and Assessment of Damages") 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 § 9-20-5?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 9-20-5" (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 § 9-20-5 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.