Passing a School Bus
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-20-12 — stopped from either direction for flashing red lights, and not within fifty feet behind
A driver meeting or overtaking a school bus from any direction with flashing red lights stops before reaching it, and does not go on until the bus moves or the lights stop. That holds on a street, a highway, a private way or a parking area.
No driver other than an emergency vehicle follows a school bus in the same lane at less than fifty feet.
| Offense | Fine | License |
|---|---|---|
| OffenseFirst | FineUp to $300 | LicenseSuspended up to thirty days |
| OffenseEach one after | Fine$300 to $500, mandatory | LicenseRevoked for one year |
A particular ticket is a question for a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-20-12 — Stopping for school bus required; Penalty for violation
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Rhode Island attorney.