reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-303. Speed restrictions

61-8-303. Speed restrictions.
(1) Except as provided in 61-8-309, 61-8-310, and 61-8-312, the speed limit for vehicles traveling:
(a) on an interstate highway outside an urbanized area of 50,000 population or more is 80 miles an hour at all times and the speed limit for vehicles traveling on interstate highways within an urbanized area of 50,000 population or more is 65 miles an hour at all times;
(b) on any other public highway of this state is 70 miles an hour during the daytime and 65 miles an hour during the nighttime;
(c) in an urban district is 25 miles an hour.
(2) A vehicle subject to the speed limits imposed in subsection (1) may exceed the speed limits imposed in subsection (1) by 10 miles an hour in order to overtake and pass a vehicle and return safely to the right-hand lane under the following circumstances:
(a) while traveling on a two-lane road; and
(b) in a designated passing zone.
(3) Subject to the maximum speed limits set forth in subsection (1), a person shall operate a vehicle in a careful and prudent manner and at a reduced rate of speed no greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions existing at the point of operation, taking into account the amount and character of traffic, visibility, weather, and roadway conditions.
(4) Except when a special hazard exists that requires lower speed for compliance with subsection (3), the limits specified in this section are the maximum lawful speeds allowed.
(5) "Daytime" means from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. "Nighttime" means at any other hour.
(6) The speed limits set forth in this section may be altered by the transportation commission or a local authority as authorized in 61-8-309, 61-8-310, 61-8-313, and 61-8-314.
(7) A person who violates this section is subject to the penalties provided in 61-8-725.
History: En. Sec. 41, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 190, L. 1967; amd. Sec. 55, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2144; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 173, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 6, Ch. 75, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 78, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 287, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 473, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 43, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 540, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 349, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 393, L. 2013; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 395, L. 2015; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 125, L. 2017; amd. Sec. 27, Ch. 299, L. 2019; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 161, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-304. Repealed

61-8-304. Repealed.
Sec. 10, Ch. 43, L. 1999.
History: En. 32-2144.1 by Sec. 1, Ch. 60, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2144.1; amd. Sec. 66, Ch. 421, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 681, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 521, L. 1987.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-305. Repealed

61-8-305. Repealed.
Sec. 10, Ch. 43, L. 1999.
History: En. 32-2144.2, 32-2144.3, 32-2144.4 by Secs. 2, 3, 4, Ch. 60, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2144.2, 32-2144.3, 32-2144.4; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 681, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 499, L. 1989.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-306. Repealed

61-8-306. Repealed.
Sec. 10, Ch. 43, L. 1999.
History: En. 32-2144.5 by Sec. 5, Ch. 60, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2144.5.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-307. Repealed

61-8-307. Repealed.
Sec. 10, Ch. 43, L. 1999.
History: En. 32-2144.7 by Sec. 7, Ch. 60, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2144.7.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-308. Permission of authorities to hold speed contest

61-8-308. Permission of authorities to hold speed contest.
(1) No race or contest for speed shall be held and no person shall engage in or aid or abet in any motor vehicle speed contest or exhibition of speed on a public highway or street without written permission of the authorities of the state, county, or city having jurisdiction and unless the same is fully and efficiently patrolled for the entire distance over which such race or contest for speed is to be held.
(2) A person who is convicted of violating this section is subject to the penalties provided in 61-8-717.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 100, L. 1967; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2143.1; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 161, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-311. Minimum speed regulations

61-8-311. Minimum speed regulations.
(1) A person may not drive a motor vehicle at a speed slow enough to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law.
(2) On a two-lane highway where passing is unsafe because of oncoming traffic or other conditions, the operator of a slow-moving vehicle behind which four or more vehicles are formed in line shall turn off the roadway at the nearest area where a sufficient and safe turnout exists in order to permit the vehicles following it to proceed. If the shoulder of the highway to the right of the slow-moving vehicle is wide enough and is in a condition allowing safe travel, the operator of the slow-moving vehicle may drive onto the shoulder and proceed at a safe speed until passed. As used in this section, a slow-moving vehicle is one that is proceeding at a rate of speed less than the normal flow of traffic at the particular time and place. The department of transportation is authorized to designate and construct turnouts and to erect official traffic control devices at appropriate places advising motorists of this statute.
(3) If the department of transportation or local authorities within their respective jurisdictions determine on the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation that slow speeds on any part of a highway impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, the commission or the local authority may set a minimum speed limit below which a person may not operate a vehicle except when necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law.
History: En. Sec. 44, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 387, L. 1973; amd. Sec. 58, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2147; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 15, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-312. Special speed limitations on trucks, truck tractors, and motor-driven cycles

61-8-312. Special speed limitations on trucks, truck tractors, and motor-driven cycles.
(1) Except as provided in 61-8-303, 61-8-309, 61-8-310, and subsection (2) of this section, the speed limit for a truck or truck tractor of more than 1 ton "manufacturer's rated capacity" traveling on:
(a) an interstate highway, as defined in 60-1-103, is 70 miles an hour; and
(b) any other public highway is 65 miles an hour.
(2) Except as provided in 61-8-303, 61-8-309, and 61-8-310, the speed limit for a vehicle subject to a term permit under 61-10-124(2)(d) or a truck-trailer-trailer or truck tractor-semitrailer-trailer-trailer combination of vehicles subject to special permits under 61-10-124(3) is 65 miles an hour unless otherwise stated in the permit.
(3) A person may not operate a motor-driven cycle at any time mentioned in 61-9-201 at a speed greater than 35 miles an hour unless the motor-driven cycle is equipped with a headlamp or lamps that are adequate to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of 300 feet ahead.
(4) A person who violates this section is subject to the penalties provided in 61-8-725.
History: En. Sec. 45, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 241, L. 1957; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 119, L. 1961; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 253, L. 1971; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2148; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 474, L. 1987; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 437, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 48, Ch. 16, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 232, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 6, Ch. 43, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 395, L. 2015; amd. Sec. 30, Ch. 299, L. 2019; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 438, L. 2019; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 89, L. 2021; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 161, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-313. Special speed limitations

61-8-313. Special speed limitations.
(1) A person may not drive a vehicle equipped with solid rubber or cushion tires at a speed greater than 10 miles per hour.
(2) A person may not drive a vehicle over a bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of a highway at a speed which is greater than the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to the bridge or structure when the structure is signposted as provided in this section.
(3) The department of transportation upon request from a local authority may, or upon its own initiative shall, conduct an investigation of a bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of a highway, and if it finds on investigation that the structure cannot safely withstand vehicles traveling at the speed otherwise permissible under this chapter, the commission shall set the maximum speed of vehicles which the structure can withstand, and the department shall erect and maintain suitable signs stating the maximum speed at a distance of not less than 100 feet before each end of the structure.
(4) Upon the trial of a person charged with a violation of this section, proof of the setting of the maximum speed by the commission and the existence of the signs is conclusive evidence of the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to the bridge or structure.
History: En. Sec. 46, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 59, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2149; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-314. Traffic violations in work zone -- definitions

61-8-314. Traffic violations in work zone -- definitions.
(1) As used in this section, the following definitions apply:
(a) "Highway worker" has the same meaning as in 61-8-301.
(b) "Public highway" has the same meaning as in 60-1-103.
(c) "Work zone" means an area on a public highway or on the adjacent right-of-way where construction, repair, maintenance, or survey work is being performed by the department of transportation, a local authority, a utility company, or a private contractor with the department of transportation or with a local authority. The boundaries of the work zone must be clearly identified by the posting of signs.
(2) A person may not operate a motor vehicle in a work zone on a public highway in violation of any of the provisions of part 3 of this chapter.
(3) The speed limit in a work zone must be set by the department of transportation or the local authority based on traffic conditions or the condition of the construction, repair, maintenance, or survey project.
(4) (a) If the department of transportation, the local authority, the utility company, or the private contractor determines, based on traffic conditions or the condition of the construction, repair, maintenance, or survey project, that special speed limits in work zones are warranted, then the department, the local authority, the utility company, or the private contractor shall post signs that:
(i) conform to the department of transportation's manual on uniform traffic control devices;
(ii) indicate the boundaries of the work zone; and
(iii) display the speed limit in effect within the work zone.
(b) The department of transportation, the local authority, the utility company, or the private contractor shall clearly indicate at the boundary of a work zone that a person who violates any of the provisions of part 3 of this chapter in the work zone is subject to the fine provided in subsection (5)(a).
(c) The department of transportation, the local authority, the utility company, or the private contractor shall remove or cover the signs when no work is in progress and no hazard exists.
(5) A person convicted of a traffic violation in a work zone is guilty of a misdemeanor. On arrest and conviction:
(a) if a highway worker was present in the work zone at the time of the traffic violation and within 1,000 feet of the traffic violation, the person shall be punished by a fine of not less than double the penalty provided for the violation in part 7 of this chapter; or
(b) if no highway worker was present in the work zone at the time and place of the traffic violation, the person is subject to the penalty provided for the violation in part 7 of this chapter.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 473, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 430, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 426, L. 2017; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 219, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-316. Fleeing from or eluding peace officer

61-8-316. Fleeing from or eluding peace officer.
(1) A person operating a motor vehicle commits the offense of fleeing from or eluding a peace officer if a uniformed peace officer operating a police vehicle in the lawful performance of the peace officer's duty gives the person a visual or audible signal by hand, voice, emergency light, or siren directing the person to stop the motor vehicle and the person knowingly fails to obey the signal by increasing the speed of the motor vehicle, continuing at a speed that is 10 or more miles an hour above the applicable speed limit, extinguishing the motor vehicle's lights, or otherwise fleeing from, eluding, or attempting to flee from or elude the peace officer.
(2) (a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b), a person convicted of or pleading guilty or nolo contendere to an offense under subsection (1) shall be imprisoned for a term not to exceed 1 year or fined an amount not to exceed $2,000, or both.
(b) A person convicted of an offense of fleeing from or eluding a peace officer during which the person causes serious bodily injury to or the death of any other person shall be imprisoned for a term not to exceed 10 years or fined an amount not to exceed $10,000, or both.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 379, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-317. Right-of-way for vehicles engaged in mobile highway maintenance

61-8-317. Right-of-way for vehicles engaged in mobile highway maintenance.
The operator of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to an authorized vehicle that is engaged in highway maintenance activities when the authorized vehicle is displaying flashing lights that meet the requirements of the department of transportation.
History: En. Sec. 5, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-320. Right-of-way for bicycles

61-8-320. Right-of-way for bicycles.
(1) The operator of a motor vehicle may not:
(a) intentionally interfere with the movement of a person who is lawfully riding a bicycle; or
(b) overtake and pass a person riding a bicycle unless the operator of the motor vehicle can do so safely without endangering the person riding the bicycle.
(2) The operator of a motor vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a person who is riding a bicycle within a designated bicycle lane.
History: En. Sec. 24, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-321. Drive on right side of roadway -- exceptions

61-8-321. Drive on right side of roadway -- exceptions.
(1) Upon all roadways of sufficient width, a vehicle must be operated upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows:
(a) when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing the passing movement;
(b) when the right half of a roadway is closed to traffic while under construction or repair;
(c) upon a roadway divided into three marked lanes for traffic under the rules applicable on a divided roadway;
(d) upon a roadway designated by official traffic control devices for one-way traffic;
(e) when the operator of a vehicle is complying with the provisions of 61-8-387 or 61-8-388;
(f) when an obstruction exists that makes it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the roadway; or
(g) when a police vehicle or authorized emergency vehicle is performing a job-related duty as provided in 61-8-107.
(2) A person operating a vehicle to the left of the center of the roadway for any of the reasons provided in subsection (1) shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles traveling in the proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the roadway that are within a distance that constitutes an immediate hazard.
(3) (a) Except as provided in subsection (3)(b) and subject to subsection (4), upon all roadways having two or more lanes for traffic moving in the same direction, a vehicle must be driven in the right-hand lane.
(b) A vehicle being operated upon a roadway having two or more lanes for traffic moving in the same direction is not required to be driven in the right-hand lane when:
(i) overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction;
(ii) traveling at a speed greater than the traffic flow;
(iii) moving left to allow traffic to merge;
(iv) traveling on a roadway within the official boundaries of a city or town, except as provided in subsection (4);
(v) preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway when a left turn is legally permitted;
(vi) exiting onto a left-hand exit from a controlled-access highway;
(vii) an obstruction or hazardous conditions make it necessary to drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane;
(viii) road or vehicle conditions make it safer to drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane; or
(ix) authorized snow-removal equipment is operating on the roadway.
(4) When traveling upon an interstate highway, as defined in 60-1-103, within the official boundaries of a city or town, a vehicle must be driven in the right-hand lane unless otherwise directed or permitted by an official traffic control device.
History: En. Sec. 48, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2151; amd. Sec. 6, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 236, L. 2017; amd. Sec. 31, Ch. 299, L. 2019; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 567, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-322. Passing vehicles proceeding in opposite directions

61-8-322. Passing vehicles proceeding in opposite directions.
Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to the right, and upon roadways having width for not more than one line of traffic in each direction, each driver shall give to the other at least one-half of the main-traveled portion of the roadway.
History: En. Sec. 49, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2152; amd. Sec. 67, Ch. 421, L. 1979.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-323. Overtaking vehicle on left

61-8-323. Overtaking vehicle on left.
The following rules govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to the limitations, exceptions, and special rules provided in this chapter:
(1) The operator of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left of the other vehicle at a safe distance and may not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle.
(2) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the operator of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle upon an audible signal or the use of signal lamps, as provided in 61-9-218, and may not increase the speed of the vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle. When giving way to the right on a two-lane highway, the operator of the vehicle being overtaken may travel upon the shoulder at a safe speed until passed if the shoulder is wide enough and is in a condition allowing safe travel.
History: En. Sec. 50, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2153; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 15, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 119, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 7, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-324. Overtaking vehicle on right

61-8-324. Overtaking vehicle on right.
(1) The operator of a vehicle may overtake and pass on the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:
(a) when the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn; or
(b) on a roadway with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more lanes of vehicles moving lawfully in the direction being traveled by the overtaking vehicle.
(2) The operator of a vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle on the right only under conditions permitting safe movement. The movement may not be made by driving off the pavement or main-traveled portion of the roadway, except that a person operating a bicycle may pass on the shoulder, provided the movement may be done in safety.
History: En. Sec. 51, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2154; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 255, L. 2015.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-325. Limitations on overtaking on the left

61-8-325. Limitations on overtaking on the left.
(1) A vehicle may not be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless the left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit the overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken.
(2) A vehicle may not be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:
(a) when approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the highway where the driver's view is obstructed within a distance that creates a hazard in the event that another vehicle might approach from the opposite direction;
(b) when approaching within 100 feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing, unless otherwise indicated by an official traffic control device; or
(c) when the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.
(3) The limitations provided in this section do not apply upon a one-way roadway.
History: En. Secs. 52, 53, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2155, 32-2156; amd. Sec. 9, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-326. No-passing zones

61-8-326. No-passing zones.
(1) The department of transportation and local authorities may determine those portions of a highway in their respective jurisdictions where overtaking and passing or driving to the left side of the center of the roadway would be especially hazardous, and they may by official traffic control devices on the highway indicate the beginning and end of these zones. When the official traffic control devices are in place and clearly visible to an ordinarily observant person, an operator of a vehicle shall obey the directions of those devices.
(2) (a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b), where official traffic control devices are in place to define a no-passing zone as set forth in subsection (1) an operator of a vehicle may not drive on the left side of the center of the roadway within the no-passing zone or on the left side of a pavement striping designed to mark the no-passing zone throughout its length.
(b) Subsection (2)(a) does not apply to the operator of a faster vehicle passing a bicycle when:
(i) the bicycle is traveling at less than half the posted speed limit;
(ii) the faster vehicle is capable of overtaking and passing the bicycle without exceeding the posted speed limit; and
(iii) there is sufficient clear sight distance to the left side of the center of the roadway to meet the overtaking and passing requirements in 61-8-325.
(3) The provisions of this section do not apply under the conditions provided in 61-8-321(1) or to the operator of a vehicle that is turning left into or from an alley, private road, or driveway.
(4) A person who is convicted of violating this section is subject to the penalties provided in 61-8-724.
History: En. Sec. 54, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 97, L. 1957; amd. Sec. 60, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2157; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 10, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 255, L. 2015; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 161, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-327. One-way roadways, rotary traffic islands, and roundabouts

61-8-327. One-way roadways, rotary traffic islands, and roundabouts.
(1) The department of transportation or a local authority may designate a highway, roadway, part of a roadway, or specific lanes under its respective jurisdiction for one-way traffic and shall erect official traffic control devices giving notice of that designation.
(2) Upon a roadway designated by official traffic control devices for one-way traffic a vehicle may be driven only in the direction designated.
(3) A vehicle passing around a rotary traffic island or a roundabout may be driven only to the right of the island or the center of the roundabout.
(4) For the purposes of this section, a "roundabout" is a circular intersection where all entering traffic must yield to the vehicles within the intersection.
History: En. Sec. 55, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 61, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2158; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 11, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-328. Driving on roadways laned for traffic

61-8-328. Driving on roadways laned for traffic.
Whenever a roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, the following rules, in addition to all other consistent rules, apply:
(1) A vehicle must be operated as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and may not be moved from the lane until the operator has first ascertained that the movement can be made with safety.
(2) Upon a roadway that is divided into three lanes and that provides for two-way movement of traffic, a vehicle may not be operated in the center lane except:
(a) when overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction where passing is allowed and where the center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance; or
(b) when the center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the direction that the vehicle is proceeding and the allocation is designated by official traffic control devices.
(3) Official traffic control devices may be erected directing specified traffic to use a designated lane or designating those lanes to be used by traffic moving in a particular direction regardless of the center of the roadway. Operators of vehicles shall obey the directions of every official traffic control device that designates use of specific lanes.
(4) A person may turn a vehicle left across a lane marked with two yellow lines into a public or private parking lot, private road, private driveway, or roadway if the turn can be made safely and if the person does not hinder the flow of oncoming traffic.
(5) Official traffic control devices may be installed that prohibit the changing of lanes on sections of a roadway, and operators of vehicles shall obey the directions of those devices.
(6) A motor vehicle may not be driven or parked in a bicycle lane that is signed and delineated as a bicycle lane by official traffic control devices.
History: En. Sec. 56, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2159; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 119, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 12, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-329. Following too closely

61-8-329. Following too closely.
(1) The driver of a motor vehicle may not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of the vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the roadway.
(2) A motor vehicle being driven upon a roadway outside of a business or residence district, including in a caravan or motorcade, whether or not towing other vehicles, must be operated in a manner that allows sufficient space between each vehicle or combination of vehicles to enable any other vehicle to enter and occupy the space without danger. This provision does not apply to funeral processions.
History: En. Sec. 57, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2160; amd. Sec. 13, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-330. Driving on divided highways

61-8-330. Driving on divided highways.
(1) Where a highway has been divided into two or more roadways by leaving a space delineated by two double yellow lines or two yellow lines with a crosshatch pattern or by a physical barrier or a clearly indicated dividing section that is constructed in a way that impedes vehicular traffic, a vehicle may be driven only upon the right-hand roadway unless directed or permitted by official traffic control devices or police officers to use another roadway.
(2) A vehicle may not be driven over, across, or within a space, barrier, or section described in subsection (1) except through an opening in the physical barrier or dividing section or space or at an established crossover or intersection unless specifically prohibited by a public authority.
History: En. Sec. 58, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2161; amd. Sec. 14, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-331. Restricted and controlled access

61-8-331. Restricted and controlled access.
(1) A person may not operate a vehicle onto or from a controlled-access roadway except at entrances and exits that are established by public authority.
(2) On a controlled-access highway or facility a person may not:
(a) operate a vehicle over, upon, or across a curb, central dividing section, or other separation or dividing line;
(b) make a left turn or a semicircular or U-turn except through an opening provided for that purpose in the dividing curb, section, separation, or line if travel through the opening is not prohibited by an official traffic control device;
(c) operate a vehicle except in the proper lane, in the proper direction, and to the right of the central dividing curb, separation, section, or line;
(d) operate a vehicle from a local service road except through an opening provided for that purpose in the dividing curb, section, or line that separates the service road from the highway or facility;
(e) construct, operate, or maintain a road or private driveway connecting with the highway or facility without first obtaining permission in writing from the public authority having jurisdiction.
(3) (a) A person who is convicted of violating subsection (1) is subject to the penalties provided in 61-8-711.
(b) A person who is convicted of violating subsection (2) is subject to the penalties provided in 61-8-720.
History: (1)En. Sec. 59, Ch. 263, L. 1955; Sec. 32-2162, R.C.M. 1947; (2)En. Sec. 10-111, Ch. 197, L. 1965; Sec. 32-4311, R.C.M. 1947; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2162, 32-4311(1); amd. Sec. 15, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 161, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-332. Restrictions on use of controlled-access roadway

61-8-332. Restrictions on use of controlled-access roadway.
(1) The department of transportation may by rule and local authorities may by ordinance regulate or prohibit the use of a controlled-access highway under their respective jurisdictions by any class or kind of traffic that is found to be incompatible with the normal and safe movement of traffic or by any vehicle.
(2) The department or the local authority that adopts the prohibitory regulation shall erect and maintain official traffic control devices on the controlled-access highway on which these regulations are applicable. A person may not violate the restrictions stated on the official traffic control devices.
History: En. Sec. 60, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 62, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2163; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 16, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-334. Limitation on U-turns -- turning on curve or crest of grade prohibited

61-8-334. Limitation on U-turns -- turning on curve or crest of grade prohibited.
An operator of a vehicle may not turn the vehicle to proceed in the opposite direction:
(1) unless the movement can be made safely and without interfering with other traffic; or
(2) upon any curve or upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade where the vehicle cannot be seen by the operator of any other vehicle approaching from either direction within 500 feet.
History: En. Sec. 62, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2165; amd. Sec. 18, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-335. Starting parked vehicle

61-8-335. Starting parked vehicle.
No person shall start a vehicle which is stopped, standing, or parked unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety.
History: En. Sec. 63, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2166.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-336. Turning movements and required signals

61-8-336. Turning movements and required signals.
(1) A person may not turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position upon the roadway as required by 61-8-333 or turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway unless the movement can be made with reasonable safety and until an appropriate signal has been given. A person may not turn a vehicle without giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this section.
(2) A signal of intention to turn right or left, other than when passing, must be given continuously during not less than the last 100 feet traveled by the vehicle before turning in any business district, residence district, or urban district.
(3) A signal of intention to turn right or left, other than when passing, must be given continuously during not less than the last 300 feet traveled by the vehicle before turning in areas other than those set forth in subsection (2).
(4) A person may not stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle without first giving an appropriate signal to the operator of a vehicle immediately to the rear when there is opportunity to give the signal.
History: En. Sec. 64, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2167; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 14, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 450, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 19, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 199, Ch. 542, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-337. Signals by hand and arm or signal device

61-8-337. Signals by hand and arm or signal device.
(1) Any stop or turn signal when required herein shall be given either by means of the hand and arm or by a signal lamp or lamps, except as otherwise provided in subsection (2).
(2) Any motor vehicle in use on a highway shall be equipped with and required signal shall be given by a signal lamp or lamps when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the left outside limit of the body, cab, or load of such motor vehicle exceeds 24 inches or when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the rear limit of the body or load thereof exceeds 14 feet. The latter measurement shall apply to any single vehicle, also to any combination of vehicles.
History: En. Sec. 65, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 105, L. 1957; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2168.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-338. Method of giving hand-and-arm signals

61-8-338. Method of giving hand-and-arm signals.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2), all signals required in this part that are given by hand and arm must be given from the left side of the vehicle by the operator of the vehicle in the following manner:
(a) For a left turn, the operator's hand and arm must be extended horizontally.
(b) For a right turn, the operator's hand and forearm must be extended upward.
(c) For a stop or a decrease in speed, the operator's hand and arm must be extended downward.
(2) The person operating a bicycle may signal a right turn by extending the right hand and arm horizontally.
History: En. Sec. 66, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2169; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 450, L. 1983; amd. Secs. 20, 51(2)(b), Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-339. Vehicle approaching or entering intersection

61-8-339. Vehicle approaching or entering intersection.
(1) (a) Except as provided in subsection (1)(b), when two or more vehicles enter or approach an intersection from different highways, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the right that are close enough to constitute an immediate hazard.
(b) The driver of a vehicle on a highway that intersects another highway without crossing it shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the other highway that are close enough to constitute an immediate hazard.
(2) The right-of-way rule declared in subsection (1) is modified at through highways and otherwise as stated in this chapter.
History: En. Sec. 67, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 175, L. 1965; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2170; amd. Sec. 68, Ch. 421, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 106, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 104, L. 2011.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-340. Vehicle turning left at intersection

61-8-340. Vehicle turning left at intersection.
The operator of a vehicle within an intersection intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction that is within the intersection or close enough to the intersection to constitute an immediate hazard. Once the operator has yielded and provided the operator is giving a signal when and as required by this chapter, the operator may make the left turn and the operators of all other vehicles approaching the intersection from the opposite direction shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle making the left turn. The provisions of this section do not apply where it is otherwise directed by official traffic control devices.
History: En. Sec. 68, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2171; amd. Sec. 21, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-341. Vehicle entering through highway -- definition

61-8-341. Vehicle entering through highway -- definition.
(1) The operator of a vehicle shall stop as required by 61-8-344 at the entrance to a through highway and shall yield the right-of-way to other vehicles that are approaching close enough on the through highway to constitute an immediate hazard. Once the operator has yielded, the operator may proceed and the operators of all other vehicles approaching the intersection on the through highway shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle proceeding into or across the through highway.
(2) As used in this section, "through highway" means a highway or portion of a highway at the entrances to which vehicular traffic from intersecting highways is required by law to stop before entering or crossing and when stop signs are erected as provided in this chapter.
History: En. Sec. 69, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 169, L. 1957; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2172; amd. Sec. 22, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 200, Ch. 542, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-342. Vehicles approaching "Yield" sign

61-8-342. Vehicles approaching "Yield" sign.
An operator of a vehicle approaching a "Yield" sign is subject to the following provisions:
(1) The operator shall slow to a speed that is reasonable for existing conditions and, if required for safety, shall stop before entering the intersection.
(2) After slowing or stopping, the operator shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another roadway close enough to constitute an immediate hazard during the time that the operator is moving across or within the intersection or junction of roadways.
(3) An operator of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within crosswalks at the intersection.
(4) If an operator of a vehicle, after having driven past a "Yield" sign, is involved in a collision with another vehicle at an intersection or junction of roadways or with a pedestrian in an adjacent crosswalk, the collision is considered prima facie evidence of the operator's failure to yield right-of-way.
History: En. Sec. 71, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 96, L. 1963; amd. Sec. 63, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2174; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 23, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-343. Vehicle entering roadway from private road, driveway, alley, or public approach ramp

61-8-343. Vehicle entering roadway from private road, driveway, alley, or public approach ramp.
The operator of a vehicle about to enter or cross a roadway from a private road, driveway, alley, or public approach ramp shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the roadway.
History: En. Sec. 70, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 52, L. 1965; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2173; amd. Sec. 25, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-344. Vehicles to stop at stop signs

61-8-344. Vehicles to stop at stop signs.
(1) The department of transportation and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions may designate through highways and erect stop signs at specified entrances to these highways or may designate an intersection as a stop intersection and erect stop signs at one or more entrances to that intersection.
(2) The stop sign and its placement must conform to the sign manual adopted by the department of transportation.
(3) An operator of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, in the event there is no crosswalk, the operator shall stop at a clearly marked stop line. If there is not a clearly marked stop line, the operator shall stop at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the operator has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersection except when directed to proceed by a police officer, highway patrol officer, or traffic control signal.
History: En. Sec. 92, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 65, Ch. 316, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2195; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 217, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 26, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-345. Stop before emerging from alley, driveway, private road, or building

61-8-345. Stop before emerging from alley, driveway, private road, or building.
The operator of a vehicle within a business or residence district who is emerging from an alley, driveway, private road, or building shall stop the vehicle immediately prior to driving onto a sidewalk or onto the sidewalk area extending across an alley, driveway, or private road and shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Upon entering the roadway, the operator shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the roadway.
History: En. Sec. 93, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2196; amd. Sec. 27, Ch. 352, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-346. Repealed

61-8-346. Repealed.
Sec. 12, Ch. 567, L. 2023.
History: En. Sec. 72, Ch. 263, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 169, L. 1957; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 153, L. 1975; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2175; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 217, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 157, L. 2001; amd. Sec. 28, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 520, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 385, L. 2021.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 8. Traffic Regulation › Part 3. Vehicle Operating Requirements › 61-8-347. Obedience to signal indicating approach of train or other on-track equipment

61-8-347. Obedience to signal indicating approach of train or other on-track equipment.
(1) When a person operating a vehicle approaches a railroad crossing under any of the circumstances stated in this section, the operator of the vehicle shall slow the vehicle in order to stop as close as practicable but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail of the railroad and may not proceed until the operator can do so safely. These requirements apply when:
(a) a clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device gives warning of the presence or immediate approach of a railroad train or other on-track equipment;
(b) a crossing gate is lowered or when a flag person gives a signal of the approach or passage of a railroad train or other on-track equipment;
(c) a railroad train approaching the crossing emits an audible signal, except at crossings within quiet zones established under 69-14-620, indicating that the train is an immediate hazard because of its speed or nearness to the crossing;
(d) an approaching railroad train or other on-track equipment is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing;
(e) there is insufficient space to drive completely through the crossing without stopping; or
(f) there is insufficient undercarriage clearance to clear the railroad crossing.
(2) A person may not operate a vehicle through, around, or under any crossing gate or barrier at a railroad grade crossing while the gate or barrier is closed or is being opened or closed.
History: En. Sec. 88, Ch. 263, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 32-2191; amd. Sec. 29, Ch. 352, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 527, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 256, L. 2009; amd. Sec. 23, Ch. 323, L. 2017.