Rhode Island Truck Mud Flap Law
Rhode Island requires suitable metal protectors or flexible flaps behind the rearmost wheels of any bus, truck, full trailer or semitrailer over three tons registered weight (R.I. Gen. Laws 31-23-27). Front wheels need fenders too (31-23-26). The statute sets no inch clearance and no tread-width number. It's an equipment violation. At a roadside stop an officer checks the flap is there, covers the wheels, and isn't torn or missing.
What Rhode Island makes you run
Rhode Island requires suitable metal protectors or flexible flaps behind the rearmost wheels of any bus, truck, full trailer or semitrailer over three tons registered weight (R.I. Gen. Laws 31-23-27). Front wheels need fenders too (31-23-26). The statute sets no inch clearance and no tread-width number. It's an equipment violation. At a roadside stop an officer checks the flap is there, covers the wheels, and isn't torn or missing.
Coverage and clearance
- Required: Yes
- Coverage: Flaps behind the rearmost wheels of trucks and trailers over three tons; front wheels need fenders (31-23-26). No explicit tread-width number.
- Ground clearance: No set clearance. The statute requires metal protectors or flexible flaps behind the rearmost wheels of trucks and trailers over three tons (R.I. Gen. Laws 31-23-27); no inch figure.
- Fine: Equipment violation under Title 31; a fine on the state schedule, generally correctable.
Rhode Island Mud Flap FAQ
Are mud flaps required on trucks in Rhode Island?
How low can mud flaps hang in Rhode Island?
What is the mud-flap fine in Rhode Island?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE31/31-23/31-23-27.HTM. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
More for Rhode Island
Check Rhode Island before you roll
Live weather, closures, and hazards on one map. Free, no account.
Open Live Map →