§ 31-14-12 - Speed limits on bridges and structures. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 31-14-12

   § 31-14-12  Speed limits on bridges andstructures. – (a) No person shall drive a vehicle over any bridge or other elevated structureconstituting a part of a highway at a speed which is greater than the maximumspeed which can be maintained with safety to the bridge or structure, when thestructure is signposted as provided in this section.

   (b) The state traffic commission upon request from any localauthority shall, or upon its own initiative may, conduct an investigation ofany bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of a highway. If itshall find that the structure cannot with safety to itself withstand vehiclestraveling at the speed otherwise permissible under this chapter, the commissionshall determine and declare the maximum speed of vehicles which the structurecan withstand, and shall cause or permit suitable signs stating the maximumspeed to be erected and maintained at a distance of one hundred feet (100')before each end of the structure.

   (c) Upon the trial of any person charged with a violation ofthis section, proof of the determination of the maximum speed by the commissionand the existence of the signs shall constitute conclusive evidence of themaximum speed which can be maintained with safety to the bridge or structure.

   (d) Violations of this section are subject to finesenumerated in § 31-41.1-4.