RHODE ISLAND REFORMS

Medical Liability Reform: Collateral Source Rule Reform: R.I. Gen. Laws  § 9-19-34.1.  Permits the admissibility of evidence collateral source payments from “state income disability or workers’ compensation, any health, sickness or income disability policy, or other contracts” for reimbursement.  Requires a jury to reduce damages awards by the amount paid by collateral sources, if such evidence is introduced.

Periodic Payment of Future Damages: R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-21-13.  Requires parties to “consider the use of periodic payments as a means of settlement” in actions arising from personal injury or wrongful death, if damages exceed $150,000.

Prejudgment Interest Rate Reform: HB 5885 (1987).  Sets the prejudgment interest rate at the U.S. Treasury Bill rate.  Provides that interest accrues from the date the lawsuit is filed.

Vicarious Liability Repeal (auto): 03S-0668 Sub B (2003).  Amends Rhode Island’s auto leasing statutes to repeal vicarious liability until July 1, 2004.