Colin’s Law

In 2010, tragedy struck when Colin B. Foote lost his life due to a reckless driver running a red light, a mere ¼ mile from his home. This devastating incident shed light on the alarming issue of intersection-related accidents in Rhode Island. Nearly one in four traffic fatalities in the state occurred at intersections like the one where Colin was killed.

In response to this alarming problem, Colin's family took action. They established ColinsLaw.Org, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing traffic safety and saving lives. Their mission is clear: "making our roads safer for everyone's family and loved ones."

To achieve this mission, the organization has implemented a multi-pronged approach.

They have worked with authorities to install red light cameras at dangerous intersections and collaborated with the state legislature to pass "The Colin B. Foote Act" (Colin's Law), aimed at holding habitual traffic offenders accountable with penalties such as community service, license suspension, and fines.

Colin's Law enables judges to adjudicate repeat offender violators of the “Act” and order them to: 

• Pay a fine of up to one thousand dollars ($1,000)

• Attend sixty (60) hours of driver retraining

• Perform up to sixty (60) hours of public community service

• Suspend the person's operator license for up to one year

• Or revoke their license for a period of up to two (2) years

The objective of this legislation has been an effort to change the driving behavior of egregious repeat offenders. or incarcerate those who have shown an inability to change their behavior.

As violators, these offenders have demonstrated a careless and dangerous disregard for motor vehicle laws and they threaten the lives of everyone's loved ones, friends and fellow citizens. It is shocking to know that, as of July 2022, more than 1,000 repeat offenders have been ordered to take the 60 hour driver retraining course as mandated by Colin's Law. Countless other repeat offenders have been sanctioned by the court otherwise under the Act.

Prior to Colin's Law, repeat traffic offenders were able to “slip under the radar” undetected by paying traffic citations by mail. This has been corrected with the passage of legislation sponsored by Rep. Donna Walsh in 2011. This law now requires that:

"Any person who receives a third (3rd) summons within a twelve (12) month period of time, cannot plea or dispose of the charge by mail, but must appear in person before a judge at the traffic tribunal or municipal court."

ColinsLaw.Org promoted traffic safety technology and spread awareness about the effectiveness of Colin's Law in reducing injuries and fatalities. Their efforts have yielded positive results, with a low rate of recidivism among program participants.

About Colin

Colin was an extraordinary young man, known for his artistic talents, sense of humor, and love for cars. He excelled in school, received honors and awards, and made impactful videos with his friends. His passion for cars led him to restore a 1970 Datsun 240Z, winning awards for his meticulous work. He also worked on restoring a 1972 Datsun 240Z with a personal family connection.

Colin attended Connecticut College, where he excelled academically, held leadership positions, and interned for a congressman. After graduating with honors in History and American Studies, he joined a PR firm in Boston, showcasing his quick thinking and vast knowledge.

Colin was not only intelligent and creative but also deeply committed to his faith, family, friends, and Rhode Island. He had a vision of making a meaningful impact on his community and leaving a lasting legacy. Although his life was cut short, his legacy continues to shine, leaving a profound impact on all who knew him. He will be forever loved and missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched during his radiant life.
 

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