Montana Car Crash Statistics

Montana's vast landscapes and open roads paint a picture of beauty and freedom, yet they also present unique challenges for drivers. The state's road network, with major routes like Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 93, experiences a variety of conditions that can increase the likelihood of car crashes. Weather plays a significant role in driving safety in Montana, particularly during winter months when snow, ice, and reduced visibility make driving hazardous. Rural roads in Montana, while scenic, contribute to the state's higher-than-average rates of traffic collisions, especially given the state's lower population density and the likelihood of drivers traveling at higher speeds.

Moreover, wildlife crossings are common and pose an additional risk to motorists, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) provide resources and data highlighting these issues, emphasizing the importance of caution and preparedness for drivers traversing the state's diverse and challenging roadways.

Fatal Crashes

222

Deaths

239

Deaths per 100,000 population

21.6

Deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled

1.77

Crash Types

239

Single-vehicle

167

Multiple-vehicle

Alcohol Involvement

136killed

Drivers killed with known BAC results

Estimated drivers killed with BACs ≥ 0.08

Deaths by Road User

Rural vs. Urban Crashes

Source: IIHS, NHTSA

Number of Fatal Crashes

Number of Serious Injury Crashes

Top 5 Most Dangerous Roads in Missouri

Montana's roads offer stunning views but come with their fair share of dangers. Here are the top 5 most dangerous roads in Montana, focusing on factors like traffic, conditions, and accidents:

I-90 from Missoula to Crow Agency

12 Fatalities/year

US-93 from Lost Trail Pass to Kalispell

7 Fatalities/year

US-12 from Missoula to Miles City

5 Fatalities/year

212

US-212 from Laurel to Lockwood

4 Fatalities/year

US-2 from Troy to Bainville

4 Fatalities/year

Key Car Crash Statistics in Missouri

In 2023, Montana witnessed 102 fatalities due to car accidents, with a notable 62% of these fatal incidents involving individuals not wearing seat belts.
Half of the fatal car accidents in Montana during 2023 were linked to speeding or suspected speeding.
Alcohol contributed to 37% of Montana's road fatalities in 2023, accounting for 37 out of 102 deaths, while drug involvement was suspected in another 15 cases.
The region with the highest number of fatal car accidents in Montana for the year up to July 31, 2023, was the Billings District, with 25 fatalities, followed by Kalispell with 21 and Missoula with 16.
From 2021 to 2023, fatal accidents in Montana involving speeding saw an increase of nearly 27%, with motorcycles being involved in approximately one-third of these deadly crashes in urban areas.
Montana saw 206 deaths from motor vehicle crashes in 2022, marking a 13.8% decrease from the year before.
The state's fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled was 1.58 in 2022, lower than the previous year.
In 2021, Montana experienced 239 fatalities from motor vehicle crashes.
As of early 2024, there have been 22 fatalities on Montana highways, compared to 18 during the same period in 2023.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Missouri?

Ensure Safety and Report the Accident

Immediately assess injuries and call 911 if there are any. This is crucial for both health reasons and legal obligations.

Legally, you must report any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 to the police as soon as possible. If police do not investigate, a written report must go to the Montana Department of Justice within 10 days. Not doing so is a misdemeanor, with fines ranging from $200 to $500 and possible jail time for repeated offenses within a year.

At the Accident Scene

Prevent further accidents: If possible, move vehicles off the road. If not, set up flares or keep your hazard lights on to alert approaching traffic.

Document extensively: Take photos from various angles, showing the overall scene, specific damages, skid marks, and relevant road signs or conditions. This documentation is vital for insurance claims and potential legal matters.

Do not move vehicles until allowed by police unless they pose an immediate danger to traffic.

Exchange information with all parties involved, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Gather names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle descriptions.

Post-Accident Actions

File a detailed accident report with local police if the crash occurred within a municipality or with the Montana Highway Patrol if outside. This is required for injuries, fatalities, or damages exceeding specific thresholds. Failure to file could result in penalties.

Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Delaying this can complicate the claims process. Provide them with the information gathered at the scene and any police report numbers.

Seek medical attention even if no injuries are apparent initially. Some injuries manifest symptoms days after the accident. Documenting these visits can be crucial for insurance and legal purposes.

Consider consulting a legal professional, especially if there are significant damages, potential disputes over fault, or injuries. A lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, deal with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.

Additional Considerations

Understand the local requirements: Reporting thresholds and procedures can vary. Familiarize yourself with Montana's specific laws regarding accident reporting and claims processing to ensure compliance.

Keep detailed records: Save all documentation related to the accident, including police reports, medical records, correspondence with insurance companies, and any legal documents. These will be invaluable for insurance claims and any legal proceedings.

Missouri Driving Laws and Facts

Impaired Driving

Montana takes a strong stance against impaired driving. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21 and 0.02% for drivers under 21. Penalties for DUI offenses can be severe, including license suspension, fines, and even jail time, depending on the offense number. The state also implements an ignition interlock device requirement for DUI offenders.

Seatbelt and Child Restraint Laws

Montana mandates seatbelt use for all passengers. Children under six years of age or weighing less than 60 pounds must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat. This law is in place to ensure the safety of younger passengers and reduce the risk of injury in accidents.

Speed Limits and Safe Driving Practices

Montana drivers are required to follow posted speed limits, which may vary depending on the type of road and location. It's essential for drivers to adjust their speed according to road conditions to maintain safety.

Distracted Driving

Unlike most states, Montana does not have a statewide ban on texting or calling while driving. However, any form of distracted driving that leads to an accident can result in a careless driving charge. Drivers are encouraged to stay focused and avoid behaviors that divert their attention from the road.

Parking Regulations

Montana has specific laws regarding parking, including prohibitions on parking within certain distances of fire hydrants, crosswalks, and railroad crossings. Violating these laws can result in fines.

Vehicle Registration and Insurance

All vehicles in Montana must be registered, and drivers must carry proof of insurance. Penalties for driving without registration or insurance include fines and potential jail time for repeated offenses.

Underage Drinking and Driving

Montana enforces zero tolerance for underage drinking and driving. Drivers under 21 face license suspension for BAC levels of 0.02% or higher, with penalties increasing with subsequent offenses. DUI penalties escalate with each offense, including license suspension, fines, and possible jail time. Repeat offenders may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles.

Move Over Law

Montana requires drivers to slow down and move over 20 miles below posted speed limits when approaching stationary emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights. This law aims to protect law enforcement officers, emergency responders, and tow truck drivers working along the roadside.

Insurance Requirements

Montana law mandates all drivers to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage amounts of $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident, and $20,000 for property damage. Failure to carry adequate insurance can result in fines and suspension of driving privileges.

Headlight Use

Montana drivers must use their headlights from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. Headlights are also required whenever visibility is less than 500 feet, such as during fog, rain, or snow.

Missouri Weird Traffic Laws

While most of the traffic laws in Montana are shared by other states, there are a few unique laws that set the state apart.

Sheep in Trucks Without a Chaperone: Montana law requires that if you're transporting a sheep in the cab of your truck, you must have a chaperone present. This law is likely aimed at ensuring the safety of the driver, the sheep, and other road users by preventing any distractions that an unattended sheep might cause.
Studded Tires Regulation in Whitehall: In Whitehall, Montana, there's a specific regulation against driving with studded tires that have "ice picks, spuds, spikes, chains, or other projections" during winter. This rule is in place to prevent road damage from such tire modifications.