Rhode Island Code of Regulations
Title 815 - Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
Chapter 50 - Common Carriers
Subchapter 10 - Motor Carriers of Passengers
Part 4 - Transportation of Passengers via Public Motor Vehicles (815-RICR-50-10-4)
Section 815-RICR-50-10-4.11 - Complaints

A. Any person may file a complaint with the Division regarding a violation of these rules and regulations, and, moreover, the Division shall have the authority to conduct investigations sua sponte. Complaints should be in writing and signed by the complainant stating the complainant's address and telephone number and either mailed or hand-delivered to the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, 89 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick, Rhode Island 02888. Nothing in this rule should be construed to prevent the Division from instituting an investigation or proceeding based upon an oral complaint or upon information developed in any other manner.

B. If the Division determines that the complaint alleges facts which could constitute a violation of these rules and regulations, the Division shall notify in writing the particular driver and/or certificate holder of the nature of the complaint. A sufficient written answer must be filed by the driver and/or certificate holder with the Division within ten (10) calendar days following the date of notice of the complaint. Upon receiving such answer(s), the Division shall notify the complainant of the contents or nature of the answer(s) and shall take whatever action deemed appropriate to resolve the complaint.

C. If the Division determines that the facts as alleged in any complaint are clearly not in violation of these rules and regulations, the complainant shall be so notified and no further action will be taken.

D. However, when the Division finds that a satisfactory response is not made to the notification of a complaint, or when no response is made to a complaint, or when the facts clearly warrant, a hearing shall be conducted by the Division concerning the complaint. The Division shall send written notice of hearing to all parties in a manner consistent with § 4.12 of this Part.

E. Failure of the certificate holder and/or driver to appear before the Division for a scheduled hearing may result in a possible suspension or revocation of the certificate and/or the driver's operating permit. Failure of the complainant to appear for a scheduled hearing may result in dismissal of the complaint, although the Division reserves the right to pursue the matter without the complainant if it determines such action to be in the public interest.