Safety Laws in Montana

Helmets

Motorcycles

Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.

Bicycles

There is no statewide bicycle helmet law, but the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) strongly recommends you wear one.

Headlights

Vehicles

Headlights must be used:

• One half-hour after sunset until one half-hour before sunrise.

• When visibility, due to foul weather, is reduced to 500 feet or less.

Motorcycles

Daytime headlights are required in Montana. A modulating headlight is permissable.

Bicycles

When riding at night, your bike must be equipped with a front white light and a red rear light that are both visible from 500 feet.

Cell Phones and Texting

As of October 2011, there are no statewide laws prohibiting cell phone use or texting while driving. However, several municipalities have implemented their own bans:

• Billings―Prohibits texting and the use of handheld phones

• Butte―Prohibits the use of handheld phones

• Helena―Prohibits the use of handheld phones

• MIssoula―Prohibits texting (this also applies to bicyclists)

• Whitefish―Prohibits texting and the use of handheld phones

Montana Child Car Seat Laws

• Kids under six or weighing less than 60 pounds must ride in a federally-approved safety seat or booster.

• All other riders, regardless of age, must use a seat belt.

If you're in the market for one, you can shop online for a child car seat at any time. When ordering, be sure the car seat matches your child's height, weight and age.

Reporting Drunk or Dangerous Drivers

Dial 911 if you suspect a driver of being drunk or unfit to drive. Provide the vehicle's license plate number, make, model, location and travel direction.

In a non-emergency situation, you may report someone you suspect of being unfit to drive to the Montana Motor Vehicle Division. The more information you can relay about the individual and your relationship to that individual, the better.

In writing:

• Motor Vehicle Division

• Records and Driver Control Bureau

• Department of Justice

• Scott Hart Building, Second Floor

• 303 North Roberts

• P.O. Box 201430

• Helena, MT 59620-1430

By phone:

• (406) 444-3288

By e-mail:

• mvd@mt.gov

Unattended Child in Vehicle

Call 911 if you sense that an unattended child left inside a vehicle is in danger. If possible, remain at the vehicle until authorities arrive.

Unattended Pet in Vehicle

Call either the local police or animal control unit if you suspect an unattended pet left inside a vehicle is in danger due to excessive heat or cold.

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