How can Montana, with its vast landscapes and rural roadways, ensure safer travel for everyone? As one of the most sparsely populated states in the U.S., Montana faces unique traffic challenges, including long stretches of rural highways, wildlife collisions, and severe weather conditions. Despite these obstacles, the state has made significant strides in improving road safety through targeted projects, strategic partnerships, and data-driven initiatives.
With programs like Vision Zero and a focus on both urban and rural areas, Montana is working to reduce fatalities and serious injuries while addressing the growing demands of tourism and population growth. Let’s take a look at some of the current efforts, challenges, and future plans shaping the state’s approach to safer roads.
Understanding Montana’s Traffic Challenges
Montana’s vast and diverse landscape presents unique traffic challenges that significantly impact road safety. The state’s extensive network of rural highways, characterized by long distances between towns and limited infrastructure, often leads to higher speeds and increased driver fatigue. These factors contribute to a higher incidence of single-vehicle accidents and fatalities. In 2023, Montana recorded 203 roadway fatalities, underscoring the persistent safety concerns on its highways.
Seasonal weather conditions further exacerbate these challenges. Harsh winters bring snow and ice, creating hazardous driving environments that demand heightened caution. The state’s abundant wildlife also poses significant risks. Collisions with animals are a common occurrence, particularly in areas lacking adequate wildlife crossings.
Urban areas in Montana are experiencing increased traffic volumes due to population growth and tourism, leading to congestion and a higher likelihood of accidents. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has identified several high-priority corridors requiring upgrades to accommodate this growth and improve safety. For instance, the Highway 93 corridor between Missoula and Florence has been a focus for potential safety enhancements, with public consultations conducted to gather input on necessary improvements.
Recent Efforts to Improve Road Safety
Montana has implemented several initiatives to enhance road safety across the state. In July 2023, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes received a $30.5 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration to fund the first phase of the U.S. 93 roadway improvement project from Dublin Gulch to Gunlock Road. This project includes constructing a new multi-span bridge over Ninepipes Reservoir and a separated, shared-use path, aiming to improve safety and connectivity for the Flathead Indian Reservation.
In November 2023, the MDT completed the Glover Road and US Highway 93 Safety Improvements project. This dual effort focused on enhancing safety features on both Glover Road and US 93, addressing critical areas to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow.
In April 2023, MDT initiated a four-phase project to install high-tension cable rail along sections of Interstate 90. This safety measure aims to prevent cross-median crashes, which are often severe. The project reflects MDT’s commitment to implementing infrastructure solutions that directly address identified safety concerns on Montana’s highways.
Vision Zero – A Bold Goal for Zero Traffic Deaths
Montana’s Vision Zero initiative, launched in 2014, aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries on the state’s roadways. This comprehensive approach focuses on the “4Es” of traffic safety: Education, Enforcement, Engineering, and Emergency Medical Services. By integrating these disciplines, the Montana Department of Transportation collaborates with various stakeholders to implement strategies that enhance road safety statewide.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist. In 2023, Montana recorded 208 traffic fatalities, underscoring the need for continued and intensified safety measures. To address this, MDT has developed the Comprehensive Highway Safety Plan, which outlines targeted strategies to reduce fatalities and serious injuries. The CHSP emphasizes data-driven approaches, focusing on high-risk areas and behaviors to effectively allocate resources and interventions.
A key component of Vision Zero is addressing impaired driving, a significant factor in Montana’s traffic fatalities. To combat this, MDT has set a goal to attain a five-year average rate of impaired driving fatalities of 86.9 by December 31, 2026. For individuals and families impacted by these accidents, consulting a Montana car accident attorney can be a critical step toward securing compensation and navigating the legal and financial aftermath. Through ongoing education campaigns, enhanced enforcement, and community engagement, Montana strives to create a safer environment for all road users.
Future Plans for Safer Roads in Montana
Montana is actively pursuing several initiatives to enhance road safety in the coming years. A key focus is the development of the Reserve Street Safety Action Plan in Missoula, targeting the reduction of fatal and serious injury crashes along this critical corridor. This plan, a collaboration between the Missoula Metropolitan Planning Organization, the City of Missoula, and the MDT, is expected to be finalized and adopted by late 2025.
MDT’s 2025 Goals and Objectives outline strategic outcomes aimed at delivering a resilient transportation system that serves the diverse needs of Montana residents and visitors. Key measures include reducing the commercial motor vehicle fatality rate to 1.23 by 2025 and developing Standard Operating Procedures for the operation of Intelligent Transportation System devices within the I-90 incident management corridor between Three Forks and Billings by June 30, 2025.
MDT is committed to maintaining department assets by inspecting and maintaining traffic signs and drainage assets to achieve a statewide condition grade of A- or better through the Maintenance Quality Assurance report card. The department also plans to equip twenty additional snowplows with front-facing cameras by September 2025 and integrate near real-time road image feeds into the Traveler Information Map by November 2025 to enhance traveler safety and decision-making.
Addressing Montana’s Rural Road Safety Concerns
Montana’s extensive rural road network presents unique safety challenges, as approximately 90% of the state’s fatal crashes occur on rural roadways. To address this, the MDT has implemented several targeted initiatives. One such effort is the installation of centerline rumble strips on two-lane rural highways, designed to alert drivers who unintentionally cross into oncoming traffic lanes, thereby reducing head-on collisions. Studies have shown that these rumble strips can reduce crashes by up to 14%.
Recognizing the heightened risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions in rural areas, MDT has also focused on implementing wildlife crossing structures and enhanced signage in high-risk zones. These measures aim to mitigate the frequency and severity of such incidents, contributing to overall road safety.
MDT also collaborates with local communities to develop and implement localized safety plans. These plans involve assessing specific road conditions, traffic patterns, and accident data to tailor interventions that effectively address the unique challenges of each rural area. This community-focused approach ensures that safety measures are both practical and impactful, leading to safer travel for all road users.
Conclusion
What will it take for Montana to achieve safer roads for everyone? Through a combination of targeted infrastructure improvements, strategic safety plans like Vision Zero, and collaborative efforts with communities and federal partners, Montana is making significant progress.
Addressing unique challenges such as rural road conditions, wildlife collisions, and increasing traffic volumes requires continued innovation and investment. These efforts not only save lives but also boost the state’s economy, enhance tourism, and improve quality of life for residents. By staying committed to these goals, Montana is paving the way for a safer and more connected future.
