From coastal roads in Newport to the busy streets of Providence, car accidents in Rhode Island can cause serious injuries and financial distress. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, it’s important to understand how Rhode Island law affects your ability to recover compensation. This guide explains the state’s insurance system, time limits for filing a claim, and your rights under Rhode Island personal injury law.
Rhode Island Is an At-Fault State
Rhode Island uses a fault-based system for car accidents. This means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for covering the damages. If you’re injured, you can:
- File a claim with your own insurance company
- File a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer
- File a personal injury lawsuit in civil court
You are not required to go through your own insurance before holding the at-fault driver accountable.
Pure Comparative Negligence Rule
Rhode Island is one of the few states that follows a pure comparative negligence rule. Even if you are 99% at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation. However, your recovery will be reduced based on your level of fault.
For example, if you are found 60% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would still be eligible to receive $40,000.
Required Auto Insurance in Rhode Island
All drivers in Rhode Island must carry minimum liability insurance, which includes:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. This type of coverage can help you recover damages if you’re hit by someone without insurance or with minimal coverage.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims
In Rhode Island, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you’re filing a wrongful death claim, the statute of limitations is also three years from the date of death.
For vehicle or property damage claims, you have ten years to file. However, it’s best not to delay, as evidence can be lost and insurance companies may use delays to deny your claim.
When You Must Report a Crash
According to Rhode Island law, you must report a car accident if:
- It causes injury or death
- Property damage exceeds $1,000
You should contact local law enforcement immediately, and you may also need to submit an official report to the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 21 days if requested.
Personal Injury Law in Rhode Island
Personal injury law in Rhode Island allows victims to recover compensation when someone else’s negligence causes harm. This includes:
- Car and truck accidents
- Motorcycle and bicycle collisions
- Slip and fall injuries
- Defective products
- Medical malpractice
There are no caps on compensatory damages in Rhode Island, including for pain and suffering. However, punitive damages—intended to punish particularly bad behavior—are rare and typically require intentional wrongdoing.
Compensation Available After a Car Accident
If you’ve been injured in a crash, you may be eligible for compensation for:
- Hospital and medical bills
- Ongoing treatment and physical therapy
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and emotional distress
- Property repair or replacement
The more severe your injuries, the more likely it is that your compensation will reflect not just current but future damages.
Rideshare Accidents in Rhode Island
If you’re involved in a car accident with an Uber or Lyft vehicle in Rhode Island, different insurance rules may apply depending on the driver’s activity at the time of the crash:
- App on, no ride accepted: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident in bodily injury, and $25,000 in property damage
- Ride accepted or in progress: $1 million in liability coverage
Passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers injured in rideshare-related accidents may be able to file claims through the rideshare company’s insurance policy. These cases can be complex, and it’s a good idea to seek legal help to navigate your options.
Can Passengers File Injury Claims?
Yes. If you’re injured as a passenger in a car crash in Rhode Island, you can file a claim for compensation against the at-fault driver’s insurance—whether that’s the driver of the car you were in or another vehicle. You can also use your own health insurance or PIP coverage (if applicable) to pay for medical bills initially.
Passengers are rarely considered at fault, so their chances of recovering compensation are generally strong.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident Claim?
While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, doing so can help protect your interests—especially in serious injury cases or when insurance companies are being difficult. An experienced lawyer can handle negotiations, gather evidence, and fight for a fair settlement.
Most Rhode Island personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they don’t get paid unless you win your case.