Amends the general law relative to right-of-way of pedestrians to reference the schedule of violations for the adjudication of traffic offenses contained in § 31-41.1-4.
Impact
The implications of S0528 could lead to more uniform enforcement of pedestrian right-of-way laws across the state of Rhode Island by establishing clear penalties referenced in the adjudication schedule. By potentially lowering the fines from what may have been existing without a referenced schedule, it can encourage compliance among drivers who may inadvertently violate pedestrian right-of-way rights. This change underscores the state's commitment to improving pedestrian safety and reducing accidents related to motor vehicle traffic.
Summary
Bill S0528 pertains to amendments in the traffic laws of Rhode Island, specifically focusing on the right-of-way provisions for pedestrians. The bill proposes to update the penalties for violations under the existing statutes concerning pedestrian right-of-way. The changes would precisely reference the specific schedule of violations for traffic offenses as defined in another section of the law. This adjustment aims to provide clarity and ensure adherence to established protocols when it comes to pedestrian safety on roadways.
Contention
While the bill seeks to bolster pedestrian safety, it may encounter various points of contention among lawmakers and community advocates. Some may argue that the fines are too low to effectively deter violations, while others could assert that referencing a separate schedule for violations complicates understanding for the average citizen. This dichotomy illustrates the ongoing debates surrounding the enforcement and impact of traffic laws on public safety and personal accountability.
Authorizes the use of automated traffic violation monitoring systems for all traffic signal laws, including the "Don't Block the Box Statute" and allows for jurisdiction of the Don't Block the Box statute violations to be within a municipal court.
Authorizes the use of automated traffic violation monitoring systems for all traffic signal laws, including the "Don't Block the Box Statute" and allows for jurisdiction of the Don't Block the Box statute violations to be within a municipal court.
Makes the possession of small amounts of schedule I through V controlled substances, except for the possession of marijuana, civil violations punishable by a ($100) fine for a first offense and up to ($300) for subsequent offenses.
Extends the "lookback" period for repeat offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs under § 31-27-2 and for repeat offenses related to failure or refusal to submit to chemical tests under § 31-27-2.1 from five to ten years.
Extends the "lookback" period for repeat offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs under § 31-27-2 and for repeat offenses related to failure or refusal to submit to chemical tests under § 31-27-2.1 from five to ten years.
Extends the repayment period for toll violations, and requires the RI transit and bridge authority to notify frequent violators by certified mail that their driver's license may be in jeopardy for failure to pay toll violations.
Enables municipalities to install and use automated systems to detect noise limit violations in order to enhance enforcement abilities and reduce noise violations state-wide.
Extends the "lookback" period for repeat offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs under § 31-27-2 and for repeat offenses related to failure or refusal to submit to chemical tests under § 31-27-2.1 from 5 years to 10 years.
Funds the state crime victim compensation program through an additional one dollar ($1.00) fine on traffic violations, exclusive of violations related to the parking of vehicles.