Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S3195

Introduced

4/3/26

Refer

4/3/26

Caption

Provides for mandatory uninsured motorist coverage.

Impact

The introduction of S3195 is expected to significantly impact the landscape of road safety and insurance liability in the state. By enforcing mandatory uninsured motorist coverage, the bill aims to enhance the protection for individuals who may find themselves entangled in accidents with uninsured drivers. This change would lead to greater accountability among drivers and ensure that victims of accidents are not left without compensation due to another driver's lack of insurance.

Summary

S3195 is a proposed act that mandates uninsured motorist coverage for policies insuring against liability arising from the ownership, maintenance, or use of motor vehicles in Rhode Island. This legislation amends existing laws to require that no motor vehicle insurance policy can be issued or renewed without including coverage for property damage and bodily injury that is caused by uninsured or hit-and-run motor vehicles. The coverage amounts must meet or exceed specified liability limits set forth in Rhode Island's general laws.

Contention

While proponents argue that the bill improves road safety by protecting the rights of victims, opponents may raise concerns over the increased costs for insurance policies. Some might argue that such mandates could lead to higher premiums for all drivers, especially affecting those who may already be financially burdened. Additionally, there could be debates around the adequacy of the limits set forth, especially for severely injured individuals who may require more extensive financial support for recovery than currently stipulated.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5932

Increases the minimum claim amount necessary to require a matter involving motor vehicle liability be submitted to mandatory arbitration.

RI H6079

Restricts private vehicle property damage insurance coverage for a rental passenger vehicle, to the named insured and drivers on that private policy, unless the designated driver is specifically excluded.

RI S0985

Restricts private vehicle property damage insurance coverage for a rental passenger vehicle, to the named insured and drivers listed on that private policy, unless the designated driver is specifically excluded.

RI S0574

Provides that a hearing required before a judge or magistrate may adjudge a motorist in contempt for failure to comply with the court's orders regarding a conditional hardship license, and defines penalties for violation of a hardship/interlock order.

RI H5896

RI S0905

Prohibits dental insurers from refusing to honor directions to pay from insured, modifying benefits to be paid. Requires providers to accept payment by virtual credit card as unfair claims practices.

RI H6155

Prohibits dental insurers from refusing to honor directions to pay from insured, modifying benefits to be paid. Requires providers to accept payment by virtual credit card as unfair claims practices.

RI S0015

Requires homeowner’s insurance providers to provide two months’ notice before increasing any policy more that 20%. Also caps rate increases for policy holders that are 65 years of age or older and meet certain income limits.

RI H5333

RI H6158

Mandates insurance coverage for scalp cooling treatments for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy treatments.