The Rhode Island State Police and police municipalities across Rhode Island have announced that they will be increasing patrols to target motorists driving under the influence (DUI). From December 14, 2016 through January 1, 2017, Rhode Island will mobilize troopers and officers for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. The only way to truly prevent a DUI...
Continue ReadingThe United States Supreme Court recently issued a decision in Birchfield v. North Carolina that impacts chemical test refusals in Rhode Island and several other states. Read today’s blog to find out more on this landmark decision and the effects on Rhode Island drivers. Can police take a chemical test without a warrant as a search incident to arrest?...
Continue ReadingIn January 2015, the Rhode Island General Assembly instituted the first law that allowed individuals convicted of a DUI and/or a Chemical Test Refusal to operate a motor vehicle while their license was suspended with a hardship license. This hardship license was discretionary and was only issued to individuals who needed their license to get to and from work....
Continue ReadingWith the start of the New Year, the General Assembly is considering several pieces of legislation intended to toughen the existing DUI laws in Rhode Island. The new legislation aims to discourage people from getting behind the wheel after drinking by sharply increasing penalties for certain offenses. Increased Penalties for DUI Resulting in Death or Serious Bodily Injury Under...
Continue ReadingNew Year’s Eve is often one of the busiest nights of the year for law enforcement and public safety officials, as Providence and Rhode Island residents ring in the New Year with friends and family. This year, however, Providence police made only one DUI arrest, despite a significant increase in statewide patrol. The lack of arrests is attributed to...
Continue ReadingBy the time the dinner check hits the table or the bar tab is closed, many of us are guilty of having a few too many. As local law enforcement increase their patrols in an effort to curb drunk driving, it is important to know the ramifications of refusing a breathalyzer. In Rhode Island, when a driver does not...
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