Yes, but refusing a breathalyzer on a first-time DUI in Rhode Island triggers implied consent penalties: an automatic 6-month license suspension and a separate civil charge with fines from $200 to $500. The refusal is also admissible at trial as evidence of consciousness of guilt. Whether to refuse depends on the circumstances, your BAC at the time, and your prior record. Many defense lawyers advise calling counsel from the police station before deciding. Refusing eliminates per se BAC evidence but introduces a parallel civil charge and a suspension that runs independently of the DUI case.
