Rhode Island law

Wrongful Death Laws in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island's wrongful-death statute (R.I. Gen. Laws § 10-7-1 et seq.) permits recovery by the personal representative or beneficiaries. Damages include loss of earnings, loss of consortium, and pre-death pain and suffering. Rhode Island's 3-year statute of limitations applies. Rhode Island's pure comparative fault rules apply.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Statute of Limitations

3 years from date of deathR.I. Gen. Laws § 10-7-2

Wrongful death actions must be filed within 3 years of the date of death.

State law

Key Rhode Island Statutes

Wrongful Death ActR.I. Gen. Laws § 10-7-1 et seq.

Action brought by the personal representative for the benefit of statutory beneficiaries (spouse, children, parents). Damages include loss of earnings, loss of consortium, and pre-death pain and suffering.

Loss of ConsortiumR.I. Gen. Laws § 10-7-1.2

Surviving spouse and children may recover for loss of consortium (society, affection, companionship).

State law

Official Sources

Rhode Island General Assembly

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.

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Wrongful Death Laws in Rhode Island.

Statute of Limitations

Key Rhode Island Statutes

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

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