This sampling of traffic- and safety-related laws is provided for your convenience but it isn't complete. We still wouldn’t recommend it though, for the same reason we would say you should wear a helmet: it’s much safer to ride sober and with a helmet than it is to go without or ride under the influence! When visibility, due to foul weather, is reduced to 500 ft or less. 61-8-608. As cyclists, we crave that wide shoulder of a road. Please ride safely, be courteous to other roadway users, and abide by all Montana traffic laws. Has a motor that is no bigger than 50 CC, and produces no more than 2 brake horsepower. If you ride a bicycle in Montana, it is essential that you understand the laws regarding the use of bicycles on public roadways. Montana does have clear definitions of electric bikes and a few regulations on the book. Forest Service Statement on Electronic Bicycle Use: Emerging technologies such as e-bikes are changing the way people enjoy their visits to national forests and grasslands. In the United States, Class 1 e-bikes can reach speeds of up to 20 mph (32 km/h), but require the rider to pedal to engage the motor. 61-8-605. Enjoy! Help keep us advocating for biking and walking by donating today through PayPal here. Copyright The Advocates 2020. It’s illegal to ride while hitched to a moving vehicle and a bike cannot carry more people than there are properly fitted seats for (usually one). Signal Turns and Be Predictable. Contact Ben Dodge to see if the bicycle crash lawyers at Bike Accident Attorneys (BAA) can help. The rule amends 43 CFR 8340.0-5 to define e-bikes, which are limited to Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes. How an Electric Bike Is Defined. 61-8-601. All in all, Montana is amazing place for cyclists and has some good clean laws to match. MONTANA’S E-BIKE LAW MONTANA’S E-BIKE LAW FOR THE ROAD In Montana, an e-bike is defined as an “electrically assisted bicycle,” so long as the e-bike has a maximum speed of 20mph. Montana State Law MCA – Right-of-way for bicycles. There are several other notable bicycle laws Montanans should, at the very least, be aware of. Bicyclists should also call out to any pedestrian they intend to overtake or pass. Get back to Bike/Ped pages.. It is common to see packs of bicyclists lining the roads during the warmer months of the year. No single entity has responsibility for ensuring bicycle safety in Montana. Bike lanes, too, are another way the Montana Department of Transportation works to protect bicyclists. Below is a list of the most important Montana bike laws every commuter should know. Obeying the laws will not only keep you safe but also prevent you from being ticketed by law enforcement. legislation was put forward to define a safe distance for drivers overtaking bikes, same rights and duties that pedestrians have, pedal reflectors which are either colorless, does have clear definitions of electric bikes. Bicyclists are allowed on any road or sidewalk unless local laws otherwise restrict use. Yea, it’s electric. In Montana, a motorized bicycle or moped is any vehicle that meets the following requirements: Has 2 or 3 wheels. Bicycles or mopeds on sidewalks and bike lanes. Effect of Regulations (61-8-601) A person propelling a bicycle or moped may ride only on or astride a permanent and regular seat attached to the bicycle or moped. Has a maximum speed of 30 MPH on level ground. Riding on bicycles or mopeds. In Montana, bicyclists are required to follow the same rules of the road as motorists. In Montana, Bicycle Laws Could Limit Cyclists to Roads With Wide Shoulders Only. Anyone caught violating these regulations could be charged with a misdemeanor or have their bicycle impounded. If the right-hand land is a right turn lane and the cyclist isn’t turning right. Traffic laws applicable to persons operating bicycles or mopeds. When a driver is attempting to pass a cyclist in the state of Montana, they must follow the Montana State Bicycle Law. MOTOR VEHICLES CHAPTER 8. Identifying the effects of Montana’s bicycle laws, road design standards and education system on bicycle safety required a basic understanding of the responsibilities of various state and local agencies and educational institutions. Bicyclists are to ride upon a street single file except on paths or parts of streets set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. This means, for example, that bicyclists are required to stop for traffic lights and stop signs. Montana Moped Laws Moped Defintion. Lamps and other equipment on bicycles and mopeds. Montana law requires that bikes are equipped with functional brakes, a white headlight visible from five hundred feet away when it’s dark, reflective gear that is visible for at least three hundred feet and a red rear reflector or rear tail light. It’s considered to be the safest state to commute in and gives a lot of freedom to cities and cyclists to stay safe and enjoy riding. Before hitting the road, bicycles should also be properly equipped with brakes that are in working order, reflectors, a headlight, and a red tail light or reflector. Search for: The purpose of the Montana State University bicycle program is to promote an environment in which bicycles, pedestrians, and motor vehicles can safely co-exist. Montana also specifies that pedal reflectors which are either colorless or amber must be installed. Current Montana Bicycle Law For any accident, it is important to identify who is at fault. She said bicyclists riding two-abreast are … Cyclists are also allowed to ride on the sidewalk, as long as the cyclist yields the right of way to pedestrians, give a signal when overtaking and passing a pedestrian, and accepts the same rights and duties that pedestrians have when using sidewalks and crosswalks. Montana law does not prohibit riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol. TRAFFIC REGULATION Part 6. With more bikes on the road, however, motorists and bicyclists both should brush up on the bike laws Montana has on the books. (2) These regulations applicable to bicycles shall apply whenever a bicycle is … Today, more than 60,000 miles of trails and roads on national forests and grasslands are currently open to e-bike use. Bicyclists should also call out to any pedestrian they intend to overtake or pass. A bicycle is a legal vehicle with the same rights and responsibilities as a motor vehicle. don’t weave in and out of traffic. The Department of Transportation encourages travel by bicycle. Montana Code Annotated 2019. A moped is any vehicle with two or three wheels that cannot excede 30 mph, has an engine capacity of less than 50cc, and has a maximum of 2 brake horsepower. Montana Bicycle Safety Tips Bicycles are Vehicles. When riding on the same road as cars, it is required that bikes are ridden on the right-hand lane of the road, except under the following circumstances: You will notice that there is one thing missing here that shows up in other states: safe passing. Where permitted, Montana law allows bicycles to be operated on sidewalks, but they must yield the right-of-way to any pedestrians they encounter. Bicycles or mopeds on sidewalks and bike lanes. When passing another vehicle going the same way. Headlights must be used: 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise. Bicycles are an efficient, enjoyable, and environmentally sound way to go around campus, and we encourage the safe and courteous use of bicycles. Did you know that Montana is the safest state to commute by bike in the United States? Bicycles are legally considered “vehicles” on Montana’s roadways. Unlike other lawyers who attempt to represent cyclists, our BAA lawyers actually ride and race their bicycles as well as appear … With so many open highways and such beautiful scenery, Montana can be paradise for bicycle enthusiasts. Any two or three wheeled vehicle not meeting these standards must be classified as a motorcyle. Montana has some great history with cyclists. In addition, the law requires the parent or legal guardian to allow their child to ride a bicycle without a helmet. No state law requires bicycle riders of any age to wear a … The motor must not require clutching or shifting. Montana allows for a bit faster speed than other states: the motor can propel the bike (unassisted by pedaling) to up to 30mp/h. What should you know about the bike laws in Montana? The power source may not propel device, unassisted, at a speed exceeding 20 mph on a level surface. Weather conditions in Montana can change dramatically without notice. Important Things to Keep In Mind Weather. For more information on Montana’s electric bike laws, click here: Mont. Bicycle Universe is compensated for referring traffic and business to these sources. The same rules of the road apply to both e-bikes and human-powered bicycles. Riding on bicycles or mopeds. You must have a motorcycle endorsement (and complete all the training and exams that go along with it) and register your motor-driven cycle then same way … But it’s just a bike. Riding at Night 61-8-601 Effect of regulations; 61-8-602 Traffic laws applicable to persons operating bicycles or mopeds; 61-8-603 Riding on bicycles or mopeds; 61-8-604 Clinging to vehicles; 61-8-605 Riding on roadways; 61-8-606 Carrying articles; 61-8-607 Lamps and other equipment on bicycles and mopeds; 61-8-608 Bicycles or mopeds on sidewalks and bike lanes; 61-8-609 Bicycle or moped racing -- when lawful Do you need a license, insurance or registration in Montana? The state legislature also amended the law to allow motorists to pass such bicyclists by crossing the double yellow lane, but only if the bicyclist was traveling at less than half of the speed limit. Montana also specifies that pedal reflectors which are either colorless or amber must be installed. The motor itself cannot require the use of clutching or shifting. 61-8-606. In fat, cyclists can travel in the driving lane and drivers can cross the double yellow lane when passing cyclists as long as the bike is traveling at less than half the speed limit. The rule provides that authorized officers may authorize, through subsequent land-use planning or implementation-level decisions, the use of Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes on non-motorized roads and trails. There is no requirement for licensing or registration; however, riders under the age of eighteen must wear a helmet. The state of Montana (MT) defines electric bicycles as a bicycle with two operational pedals with a motor attached. (1) It is a misdemeanor for any person to do any act forbidden or fail to perform any act required in this part. Effect of regulations. Code § 61-8-102(2)(g) Nebraska. For a complete list, please consult the Montana Code Annotated. 61-8-609. There is not speed limit when pedaling. Again, it’s worth pointing out that much of the burden of riding safely falls on the cyclist, so keep your wits about you! Bicycle Universe is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. And this means that you have plenty of support to keep you safe on the roads and often a very friendly community to bike with. It’s true! There are plenty of trails, paths, and wide roads to ride and of course, some amazing vistas to enjoy. America's Premier Personal Injury & Accident Law Firm, Common Airbag Safety Issues You Should Know, Filing COVID-19 Injury Claims: A How-To Guide, The Top 7 Most Dangerous Animals in Montana, Top 5 Worst Dog Attacks in Montana History, Bicyclists should ride with both hands on the handlebars and should not. Montana does not require that cyclists use the bike lane or bike path where they are provided, but it is required that cyclists ride in single file when riding on the road and only ride two or more abreast where permitted on designated bike paths. I promise not to send you spam. Just make sure you keep up to date on your city’s bylaws and keep your eyes on the road. Much of the safety in passing or where to ride is currently left up to the cyclist to decide, which means that both the driver and the cyclist must be sure they are watching for each other in order to prevent accidents. That means bicyclists must obey the rules of the road like drivers of any other vehicle and must be treated as equal users by all other vehicles. Billings, Montana for example, passed an ordinance stating that riders age sixteen and under must wear a helmet while cycling. 61-8-320. Montana’s bicycle-specific laws are outlined in Title 61 of the Montana Code Annotated. This will help prevent any unecessary collisions. Bicycle Universe also participates in other affiliate programs and advertising platforms. These lanes are reserved solely for bicyclists and should not be used by automobiles or pedestrians. Montana law (61 -8 -102, MCA) defines e -bikes, or “electrically assisted bicycles” as a bicycle with two operational peda ls with a motor attached propels the bicycle and a rider who weighs 170 pounds no faster than 20 miles an hour. State of Montana Bicycle Laws Link to the laws on the state website. Bikes are encouraged to stay on the right, but there’s nothing in the books forcing them to. Montana’s roads and city streets are the territory of bicyclists as much as motor vehicle operators. Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) - Bicycles in Montana. Bikes are considered to be vehicles, in that cyclists enjoy all the rights and duties that the driver of a vehicle do (except certain circumstances that wouldn’t apply to bikes and cars anyway). The state defines an electric bike as a bike with two operational pedals and a motor that does not exceed 500W. Bike Walk Montana notes that all motor vehicle road laws all apply to bicyclists. Electric bicycles are now legal on federal lands in Montana, including on bike trails in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Not too long ago, in 2015, Montana traffic laws were changed so that bicyclists could legally ride in the driving lane. If the road is a one-way road with two or more marked traffic lanes. Montana bicycle laws. HAD A BICYCLE CRASH IN MONTANA? 61-8-603. Montana does not recognize the Idaho stop law, so cyclists still must come to a complete stop when they get to a red light and if the red light doesn’t change, the cyclist has to wait until it does, regardless of whether the sensor detected the bike or not. All Rights Reserved. Bicycle Traffic Riding On Bicycles Or Mopeds 61-8-603. Electric bikes can be ridden on roads, bike paths, and even state park paths. By knowing and following the laws explained above, you should be ready to safely start your own great Montana bike adventure. Bicyclists must use proper hand signals when turning left or right or changing lanes. However, cyclists in Montana are not required to wear a helmet while riding, regardless of age. COPYRIGHT © 2020 BICYCLE UNIVERSE LLC. Bicycling plays a big role in Montana's transportation system. While the state of Montana doesn’t have mandatory laws requiring bicyclists to wear helmets, its largest city does. Keep in mind though, that municipalities can enact their own laws around helmets. Get a bike, lose the car, help the environment. Montana has a Share the Road license plate program with the proceeds going to Bike Walk Montana that helps to advocate for cyclists and pedestrians. Bicycle & Pedestrian Traffic Laws 61.8.5. When preparing for a left turn at an intersection, private road, or driveway. Smooth asphalt makes our tires sing as we share space with our fellow drivers. Please read our Privacy Policy. Montana State Law MCA – Bicycle Traffic. In 2017, legislation was put forward to define a safe distance for drivers overtaking bikes, but this hasn’t been put into the law yet. These changes have made Montana roads safer for both motorists and bicyclists. Like all states in the country, Montana requires road cyclists to follow the same rules and regulations as motor vehicles. There is no statewide bicycle helmet law, but the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) strongly recommends you wear one. Unsubscribe at any time. Where permitted, Montana law allows bicycles to be operated on sidewalks, but they must yield the right-of-way to any pedestrians they encounter. Montana law requires that bikes are equipped with functional brakes, a white headlight visible from five hundred feet away when it’s dark, reflective gear that is visible for at least three hundred feet and a red rear reflector or rear tail light. Headlights Vehicles. Rather, Montana Bicycle Laws Pocket Reference; Montana Office of Tourism’s Guidebook; For general Montana tourism information, including recreational trails, please visit Montana Office of Tourism's website. Riding on roadways. Barnes said Bike Walk Montana would like to see a change in a state law that requires bicyclists to ride single-file. In fact, Montana was named the safest state to commute by bicycle in the United States. BWAM is a volunteer-led organization, run by community and board members. 61-8-604. Section 24-605 of Billings’ city code mandates that anyone under the age of 16 who rides a bicycle must wear a helmet. 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