As reported by Donita Naylor in the February 26, 2013 edition of the Providence Journal, a Rhode Island motorist has lost his license for eight (8) months as a result of traffic violations. The man was involved in an accident which killed a pregnant woman. Her baby was delivered and the baby dead a few weeks later. The man was cited for three (3) traffic violations, failure to maintain control, failure to drive at reasonable speed based on weather conditions and following too closely. The following too closely charge was dismissed. On the other two (2) violations, the man was sentenced to eight (8) months of license suspension, Driver Retraining and one hundred (100) hours of community service. At least twenty-five (25) hours of community service must involve assisting children.
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 31-14-3, conditions requiring reduced speed is defined as the driver of every vehicle shall drive at an appropriate reduced speed when approaching and crossing an intersection or railroad grade crossing, when approaching and going around a curve, when approaching a hill crest, when traveling upon any narrow or winding roadway, when special hazard exists with respect to pedestrians or other traffic or by reason of weather or highway conditions and in the presence of emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights as provided in § 31-24-31, tow trucks, transporter trucks, and roadside assistance vehicles displaying flashing amber lights while assisting a disabled motor vehicle.
Pursuant to R.I.G.L. 31-14-1, failure to maintain control is defined as no person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. In every event, speed shall be so controlled as may be necessary to avoid colliding with any person, vehicle, or other conveyance on or entering the highway in compliance with legal requirements and the duty of all persons to use due care.
If you or a family member has been charged with traffic violations, hit and run or other driving offenses, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.