Montana Department of Transportation

Bicycle Safety

The bicycle is a legal vehicle in Montana, which means cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.

Rumble Strips
Be aware that you may encounter rumble strips (grooves) along or across the shoulders of various roadways. Please use extra caution when travelling in these areas.

Helmets
Montana law does not require it, but we highly recommend the use of helmets while riding.

Potential Wildlife Hazards
Part of Montana's appeal is our wildlife. Be aware that you may encounter animals crossing the roadway, especially at dawn or dusk. Do not approach wildlife as they may defend their territory or young.

"Bikes/Runners on Roadway" signs are now available
If you are planning a bicycling or running event in your community, large or small, you are undoubtedly considering the safety of the participants. MDT has an excellent resource to help ensure a safe event—bright-orange "Bikes/Runners on Roadway" signs.

The diamond-shaped signs measure 36" x 36" with 4" tall black letters and are portable and lightweight.

MDT has "Bikes on Roadway" signs available at MDT offices across the state including Missoula, Kalispell, Bozeman, Billings, Butte, Great Falls, Miles City, Havre, Lewistown, Wolf Point, Glendive and Helena.

We encourage event coordinators to use these signs and tell us about your event. To reserve these signs we ask that you contact your area representative listed below to fill out a reservation form.

This reservation form serves two purposes in that it creates awareness of events and it also helps in gathering and identifying routes used by bicyclists.

This reservation form includes: organization or event represented, the date of the event, how many riders are expected, and a detailed route plan. It also provides verification of a submitted traffic control plan, proof of insurance, and notification of state and local authorities.

Any individual or group organizing an event can reserve and check out the signs from the following MDT employees:

• John Maricelli, Missoula - 523.5836
• Elizabeth Moderie, Kalispell - 751.2015
• Randy Roth, Billings - 657.0217
• Ray Stocks or Pat Kenney, Butte - 494.9600 or 494.9603
• Dave Hand, Great Falls - 454.5889
• Ross Gammon, Bozeman - 556.4704
• Mike Patch, Miles City - 233.3623
• Bill Juve, Wolf Point - 653.6709
• Mike MacDonald, Havre - 262.5504
• Doug Lutke, Lewistown - 538.1301
• Kent Shepherd, Glendive- 345.8253
• Pam Langve-Davis, Helena - 444.9273