Rhode Island Personal Injury Laws
Rhode Island follows pure comparative fault, allowing plaintiffs to recover regardless of their degree of fault. The state has no statutory cap on non-economic or compensatory damages in personal injury or medical malpractice cases. Despite being the smallest state, Rhode Island has a vibrant personal injury bar concentrated in Providence, with cases often involving maritime and coastal injuries.
Statute of Limitations
3 years
Fault Rule
Pure Comparative Fault
Non-Economic Damages Cap
No Cap
Fault Rule: Pure Comparative Fault
You can recover damages even if you are 99% at fault, but your award is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Average Settlement Amounts in Rhode Island
Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity, liability, and other factors. Below are estimated average settlements for common injury types in Rhode Island.
| Injury Type | Average Settlement |
|---|---|
| Car Accident | $22,000 |
| Slip and Fall | $18,000 |
| Dog Bite | $33,000 |
Key Rhode Island Personal Injury Statutes
- •R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-14 (statute of limitations)
- •R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-20-4 (pure comparative fault)
- •R.I. Gen. Laws § 4-13.1-10 (dog bite liability)
Damage Caps in Rhode Island
Rhode Island does not impose a general cap on non-economic damages in personal injury cases. This means there is no statutory limit on pain and suffering awards in most cases.
Rhode Island does not have a specific medical malpractice damages cap.
Injury Claims in Rhode Island
Learn more about specific injury types and how Rhode Island law applies to each.
Major Cities in Rhode Island
Personal injury attorneys in Rhode Island serve clients in Providence, Cranston, Warwick, Pawtucket, East Providence, and surrounding areas. If you have been injured in any of these cities, the same state laws described above apply to your claim.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your state.