Call or Text For A Consultation
(401) 602-9367
Most speeding tickets in Rhode Island are civil violations decided at the Traffic Tribunal, but they can still carry fines, points, and insurance consequences — and serious cases can rise to criminal charges.
Attorney Leah J. Boisclair represents drivers facing speeding and other traffic matters and can help you weigh your options.
Rhode Island's basic speed law, § 31-14-1, requires reasonable and prudent speed for conditions, and § 31-14-2 sets prima facie limits (for example, 25 mph in business and residential districts and lower in school zones). Speeding is generally a civil Traffic Tribunal violation with fines set by statute, not a crime. However, driving so that the public's safety might be endangered can be charged as criminal reckless driving under § 31-27-4.
Statutes and penalties can change. An attorney can confirm the current law and how it applies to your specific charge.
Every DUI and traffic case turns on its own facts. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review your charge and explain your options in plain English.
For a civil speeding violation, the state must prove the violation by clear and convincing evidence at the Traffic Tribunal. For a criminal charge such as reckless driving, the state must prove conduct that endangered the public — a higher standard tied to a different statute.
No outcome can be guaranteed. The right approach depends on the specific facts; an attorney can review how the law may apply to your situation.
Traffic and DUI consequences can follow you for years. The sooner you have an attorney, the more can often be done to protect your rights.
DUI and traffic cases often turn on details — how the stop happened, how testing was administered, and whether procedures were followed. Speaking with an attorney early can help protect your license and your rights, preserve challenges, prepare you for court, and avoid missteps that can affect the outcome.
Generally no — speeding is usually a civil violation handled at the Traffic Tribunal under sections 31-14-1 and 31-14-2. It can become criminal only if charged as reckless driving under section 31-27-4.
Paying a ticket is an admission that can carry points and insurance consequences. Depending on your record, contesting it at the Traffic Tribunal may be worth considering; an attorney can advise.
Every case is different. Depending on the stop, the evidence, and the facts, there may be issues worth raising, and some matters can sometimes be reduced or resolved another way. No outcome can be guaranteed; an attorney can review your options.
Many DUI and traffic matters carry license consequences, such as suspension or an ignition interlock requirement. The specifics depend on the charge and your record; an attorney can explain what may apply.
Bring any paperwork you received — the citation or summons, any police report or arrest paperwork, your court date notice, and any documents from the DMV or Traffic Tribunal. These help an attorney understand your situation quickly.
Yes. Attorney Boisclair represents drivers at the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal and municipal court and co-chairs the Traffic Tribunal Bench/Bar Committee.
Related DUI and traffic pages for more help:
Criminal defense by Rhode Island county:
Speak with Attorney Leah J. Boisclair about your situation. Consultations are confidential, and early guidance can make a real difference.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Rhode Island traffic and criminal laws can change, and the outcome of any case depends on the specific facts and circumstances. If you are facing a charge, speak with a qualified Rhode Island attorney about your situation.