Bill > HB124

This bill proposes a significant change to bicycle riding regulations in Montana by requiring bicyclists to ride opposite the flow of traffic when not accompanied by a flag vehicle escort. Specifically, the bill mandates that cyclists must travel facing oncoming traffic on roadways, which is contrary to traditional cycling safety recommendations. The bill creates a new section of law that establishes this requirement and includes an exception for bicyclists who are accompanied by a flag vehicle escort, in which case they would be allowed to ride with the flow of traffic. Additionally, the bill repeals two existing sections of Montana Code Annotated (sections 61-8-602 and 61-8-605) related to traffic laws for bicycles and riding on roadways, effectively replacing the previous regulations with this new provision. The bill is intended to be codified as part of Title 61, Chapter 8, Part 6 of Montana's legal code, which covers traffic regulations. This proposed change could potentially impact bicycle safety, as most traffic safety experts recommend riding in the same direction as traffic to increase visibility and predictability for both cyclists and motorists.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3259