Rhode Island · Handbook chapter 10 · 3 min read

Chapter 10: Collisions and police stops

What Rhode Island law requires after a collision, when to report it, what information to collect, the common causes of crashes and how to act when police pull you over.

Why this chapter matters

Leaving a crash scene without identifying yourself brings severe penalties, and how you behave at a traffic stop matters for everyone's safety. The steps are simple to learn now.

After a collision

1. Stay calm and stop immediately.
2. Make your identity known to anyone involved. Leaving without identifying yourself is a hit and run.
3. Report the collision to the nearest state or local police immediately, and call for rescue help if anyone is hurt.
4. In a minor collision, move the vehicle to the side of the road if you can, then notify police.

If you hit a parked vehicle or other property, leave your name and address in writing, firmly attached where the owner will find it, and report it to police.

A police report is required when someone is injured, when property damage is over $1,000, or when you hit an unattended vehicle.

What to record

The exact place (street names, nearest house number or mile marker) and time; the other driver's name, address, license, insurance company and policy number, and registration; names and addresses of witnesses and passengers; the officer's name; and a description of the damage and injuries.

Common causes of collisions

Driver error, speeding, alcohol and drugs, driving too fast for conditions, inattention, tailgating, driving left of center, pulling away from the curb without looking, failing to yield, vehicle defects and road hazards.

Duty to stop

Failing to stop after a collision that causes injury or death is a felony. Failing to stop after damaging a vehicle, an unattended vehicle or highway fixtures means a court appearance.

When police stop you

• Signal right, slow down and pull as far right as you safely can without blocking traffic or a driveway.
• Turn off the engine and start lowering the window. At night, turn on the interior lights (you are required to) and leave the headlights on.
• Keep your belt on and your hands on the wheel. Stay in the car unless the officer asks you to get out.
• Wait to be asked for your license, registration and insurance card, and take them out of any holder. Avoid sudden movements toward the glove box or under the seat.
• If asked to sign a citation, sign it. Signing is not an admission of guilt, only proof that you received it. If you disagree, take it up later with the agency or a judge, not at the roadside.