Any negligence or willful misconduct of a minor under the age of eighteen (18) years when driving a motor vehicle upon a highway shall be imputed to the person who has signed the application of that minor for a permit or license, which person shall be jointly and severally liable with the minor for any damages caused by the minor's negligence or willful misconduct except as otherwise provided in § 31-10-16.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-10-15