R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-20-17.1: Private complaint — Stopping for crossing guard/bus monitor required.

(a) Upon receipt of a private complaint, in writing and signed by the complainant, the traffic tribunal shall by letter notify the violator to respond in writing within twenty (20) days to the allegations of the complaint. Failure to respond to the letter will result in the person being notified to appear before a judge of the traffic tribunal and show cause why his or her license should not be suspended. Failure to appear at the hearing will result in the suspension of the person’s license until such time as the person does appear.

(b) On any second or subsequent violation within one year, the person shall be issued a summons to appear for a hearing, and failure to appear will result in the suspension of the person’s license until such time as the person does appear.

(c) At any hearing resulting from any violation, the complainant shall also appear at the hearing. A person convicted of a violation of this section shall be punished in accordance with the penalties set forth in § 31-20-12.