Bill > H5444

This bill amends Rhode Island's existing "move over law" by formally defining what it means to "slow a vehicle" when approaching emergency, maintenance, or disabled vehicles on the roadside. Specifically, the bill clarifies that "slowing" means reducing speed to 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit. The existing law already requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down when approaching stationary vehicles with flashing lights, such as emergency vehicles, tow trucks, highway maintenance equipment, and roadside assistance vehicles. The new definition provides a precise, numerical standard for what constitutes "slowing" in this context, which was previously undefined. This amendment aims to enhance safety for roadside workers and emergency responders by providing a clear, quantifiable instruction to drivers about how much they should reduce their speed when encountering these types of vehicles. Violations of this law remain subject to the existing fine structure outlined in Rhode Island's traffic code.

Justice

https://status.rilegislature.gov/