Rhode Island enforces jaywalking and littering through standard traffic and public nuisance statutes, with fines for pedestrians crossing outside marked crosswalks or against signals. These everyday violations carry penalties up to $50 or more depending on location, though enforcement prioritizes safety risks over minor infractions. No uniquely bizarre twists exist beyond typical urban rules, unlike viral myths about other states.​
Jaywalking Regulations
Pedestrians must use crosswalks where available and yield to vehicles when walking on roadways. Violations under RI Gen. Laws § 31-18-10 prohibit street walking without due care, with fines starting low but escalating for repeats.​
Littering Penalties
Throwing trash from vehicles or onto public ways incurs misdemeanors with fines up to $500 and possible community service. Even small litter like cigarette butts counts, making casual disposal a frequent unwitting breach.​
Other Daily Infractions
Hitchhiking in roads is banned under § 31-18-12, and freeways prohibit pedestrians entirely. Sidewalk right-of-way rules protect those with mobility aids, with drivers facing stops. Local ordinances in Providence add noise or vending curbs often overlooked.
SOURCES
[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaywalking)
[2](https://law.justia.com/codes/rhode-island/title-31/chapter-31-18/)
[3](https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText25/HouseText25/H5951.pdf)
[4](https://legal-resources.uslegalforms.com/j/jay-walking)
[5](https://www.dellisonlaw.com/blog/right-of-way-in-crosswalk-pedestrians-dismissed-rhode-island/)
