---
title: "What does \"proximate cause\" mean in a Rhode Island DUI manslaughter case?"
description: "Proximate cause is the legal requirement that the defendant's intoxicated driving was a substantial factor in causing the death - not merely that the defendant was intoxicated and a death occurred...."
url: https://riduilaws.com/faq-items/what-does-proximate-cause-mean-in-a-rhode-island-dui-manslaughter-case/
date: 2026-10-29
modified: 2026-10-29
author: "RI DUI Laws"
type: faq
lang: en
---

# What does "proximate cause" mean in a Rhode Island DUI manslaughter case?

Proximate cause is the legal requirement that the defendant's intoxicated driving was a substantial factor in causing the death - not merely that the defendant was intoxicated and a death occurred. If the death would have happened regardless of the defendant's intoxication (for example, due to the deceased's own conduct, third-party action, or independent intervening cause), the proximate cause element may not be established beyond a reasonable doubt.

What does "proximate cause" mean in a Rhode Island DUI manslaughter case?[RI DUI Laws](https://riduilaws.com/author/admin_xxgjem88/)2026-10-29T22:23:32+00:00