Driving While Intoxicated:  Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a commonly committed crime. The driver of a motor vehicle need not be drunk to be convicted of operating or driving under the influence of alcohol. All that needs to be shown is that the driver or operator is affected by the alcohol to the extent which renders him or her incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle. A person may not seem to be "drunk" but if the reflexes of the driver have been impaired by drinking, he or she can be convicted for driving under the influence. Under Rhode Island law, a person may be convicted for operating or driving a motor vehicle anywherein the state. It is possible to be convicted for driving under the influence while backing out of a private driveway or driving in a parking lot. All that needs to be shown is that the person was driving and was under the influence of liquor to a degree that rendered the driver incapable of safe operation of the vehicle.

Rhode Island has complex DWI laws.  A legal professional with experience in Rhode Island DWI cases can explain your options and recourse.  The following is a copy of the Rhode Island Driving While Intoxicated Law:

http://www.dot.state.ri.us/programs/safety/drunkdriving.asp