Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S3195

Introduced
4/3/26  

Caption

RELATING TO INSURANCE -- LIABILITY INSURANCE

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 H6354

Liquor licenses in Westerly required to have liability insurance.

RI H5932

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

RI H5416

Prohibits auto insurance companies from using certain race and geographical locations criteria when determining insurance rates.

RI S0766

Forbids a motor vehicle liability insurance carrier from considering the zip code of where an insured lives for purposes of calculating their policy premium.

RI H5104

Forbids a motor vehicle liability insurance carrier from considering the zip code of where an insured lives for purposes of calculating their policy premium.

RI H5548

Makes numerous technical corrections related to insurance, provides a definition for "cybersecurity insurance", and would repeal the chapter relating to reciprocal exchanges and interinsurers.

RI S0600

Makes numerous technical corrections related to insurance, provides a definition for "cybersecurity insurance", and would repeal the chapter relating to reciprocal exchanges and interinsurers.

RI H5587

References both the declaration and bylaws of a condominium association as possible sources of association insurance regulation for the condominiums and require additional insurance to protect unit owners, when necessary.

RI H6370

Provide to provide greater clarity in insurance claim settlements, the appraisal process and procedural safeguards to enhance consumer protections against bad faith practices by insurers.

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.

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