Bicycle Light & Reflector Laws in Rhode Island
Last reviewed by BikeSize EditorialThis guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change - verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
The rule
Rhode Island requires lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front. For the rear, red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the registrar of motor vehicles, visible from 50 to 300 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful upper-beam headlamps. a red rear lamp visible from 500 feet to the rear may be used in addition to the reflector. The rule applies whenever it is dark. See RIGL § 31-19-5 (Lamps and other equipment on bicycles).
Statute
What this means in practice
The cheapest way to stay legal in Rhode Island is a USB-rechargeable front white light and a rear red light or reflector that meets the spec above. A $30 light set covers it.
Be seen, stay legal
Compare bike lights that meet the 500-foot rule
Most state codes require a white front light visible from 500 feet plus a rear reflector or red light. See lights that hit the spec and last a full commute.
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