Distracted Driving Accidents in Rhode Island: What You Need to Know
- Ann Sheeley
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
Every April, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recognizes Distracted Driving Awareness Month—a reminder of just how dangerous a quick glance away from the road can be.
At Sheeley Law, we have represented victims in crashes caused by distracted driving. We have also defended clients charged with distracted driving. If you or a loved one were involved in a distracted driving accident in Rhode Island, here’s what you need to know: As always, we are here for you 24/7 for a free consultation.
What Is Distracted Driving?
What many drivers consider a harmless moment—checking a text, adjusting GPS, grabbing a coffee—can lead to serious accidents, life-altering injuries, and complex legal issues. Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from driving. It generally falls into three categories:
Visual – taking your eyes off the road
Manual – taking your hands off the wheel
Cognitive – taking your mind off driving
Texting while driving is especially dangerous because it involves all three. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reading or sending a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. At highway speeds, that’s like driving the length of a football field blind.
Rhode Island Distracted Driving Laws
In Rhode Island, it is illegal to hold a phone in your hand while driving. It doesn’t matter if you are using your device to talk, text, email, get directions, play music or access any of your apps. The penalties for distracted driving can be severe.
For more information on what does and does not constitute as distracted driving in Rhode Island, as well as the penalties if you are found guilty, read Sheeley Law's Distracted Driving Legal Guide here:
Common Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving is a leading cause of many types of crashes we handle at Sheeley Law, including:
Rear-end collisions
Intersection accidents
Pedestrian and cyclist accidents
Accidents resulting in serious bodily injury or death
Who Is at Fault in a Distracted Driving Accident?
In Rhode Island, fault is based on negligence. In simple terms, that means whether a driver failed to act with reasonable care. If a driver was texting, using a phone, or otherwise distracted, that behavior can be powerful evidence of negligence.
Determining fault may involve:
· Police reports
· Witness statements
· Cell phone records
· Traffic or surveillance footage
· Vehicle damage analysis
Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be able to recover compensation under Rhode Island’s comparative negligence rules.
What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver:
Call the police and file a report
Seek medical attention immediately
Document the scene (photos, witness info)
Victims should consult a personal injury attorney right away. If you caused the accident, consult a criminal defense attorney immediately. Attorney Ann Sheeley has represented clients on both sides and will guide you on your options.
Taking these steps can help protect both your health and your legal rights.
How Sheeley Law Can Help
Having experienced legal guidance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Sheeley Law, we understand how overwhelming an accident can be for both the victim and the accused. We help clients by:
Investigating the cause of the accident
Gathering evidence
Proving negligence
Handling insurance negotiations
For victimes, we pursue maximum compensation for your injuries, loss of income/future wages, medical/other accident-related bills and pain and suffering. For defendants, we work hard to minimize the charges against you.
If you’ve been in a distracted driving accident in Rhode Island, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation at 401-619-5555 or email asheeley@sheeleylaw.com.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What qualifies as distracted driving?
A: According to Rhode Island Law, Distracted Driving includes:
Browsing the internet or social media
Using GPS navigation systems or reading maps
Watching video clips
Changing music
Eating and drinking
Applying makeup
Q: If I am partially at fault for a distracted driving accident, can I still sue the other driver for damages?
A: Yes. Rhode Island follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you may still recover compensation if you were less than 50% at fault.
Q: What are the penalties for distracted driving in Rhode Island?
A: The consequences for distracted driving in Rhode Island can be severe. If a police officer observes you holding a phone while driving, you will be pulled over and your first penalty could be a $100 fine and/or a maximum 30-day license suspension. A second offense carries a maximum $150 fine and/or a license suspension of up to three months. A third offense can result in your license being suspended for up to six months and up to $250 in fines. In addition to fines, your insurance rates will likely go up.
An attorney like Ann Sheeley can review the evidence, explain your options, and protect your rights moving forward.
(401) 619-5555 | asheeley@sheeleylaw.com
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