Modified Comparative Negligence (51% Bar)
Rhode Island follows modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar. Plaintiff can recover if 50% or less at fault; damages reduced proportionally. If plaintiff is 51% or more at fault, recovery is completely barred.
No Cap
No limit on non-economic damages
3 years for personal injury
Deadline to file your lawsuit
Rhode Island follows modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar. Plaintiff can recover if 50% or less at fault; damages reduced proportionally. If plaintiff is 51% or more at fault, recovery is completely barred.
Example:
If plaintiff is 30% at fault for $100k damages, they recover $70,000. If plaintiff is 51% or more at fault, they recover $0.
Additional research needed for specific cap amounts
$0
Based on reported cases in Rhode Island
51,847
Personal injury lawsuits per year
Rhode Island follows pure comparative negligence, allowing plaintiffs to recover even when more than 50% at fault. The Kennedy v. Providence Hockey Club (1977) case established important premises liability standards.
The Station Nightclub fire in 2003 killed 100 people, resulting in massive wrongful death litigation against the club owners, band, and pyrotechnics company.
Rhode Island's maritime industries have produced notable Jones Act and maritime injury cases.
Rhode Island personal injury cases are filed in Superior Court, with 4 counties. Providence County handles the vast majority of civil litigation.
Rhode Island follows the Superior Court Rules of Civil Procedure. The state's small size creates an efficient court system.
Rhode Island courts encourage settlement conferences and mediation. The state's small bar promotes collegial resolution.
Rhode Island attorneys are licensed by the Rhode Island Supreme Court. The state's small legal community values reputation significantly.
The Rhode Island Association for Justice is the state's primary plaintiff attorney organization. Maritime and premises liability experience is valuable.
Contingency fees typically range from 33-40%. Rhode Island has no general damage caps on personal injury claims.
Rhode Island's statute of limitations for personal injury is 3 years under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-14. This applies to most negligence claims.
Medical malpractice also has a 3-year limit. Claims against Rhode Island government entities have a 3-year limit under the Rhode Island Tort Claims Act.
This calculator provides estimates only and is not legal advice. Laws in Rhode Island are complex and individual case results vary. Consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney for advice specific to your case.