Montana's Little-Known Law Requires Slow Drivers to Pull Over
Montana law requires slower drivers to let backed-up traffic through when four or more vehicles are behind them.
Key Takeaways
- Montana law requires slower drivers to let backed-up traffic through when four or more vehicles are behind them.
- The law applies on two-lane roads where passing isn’t practical or safe.
- Drivers must use the next safe opportunity to let faster traffic pass.
- The law is intended to reduce frustration among drivers and prevent risky passing maneuvers.
- Most encounters with law enforcement regarding this rule are educational rather than punitive.
What is Montana’s Slow Driver Law?
Montana’s slow driver law, also known as Montana Code Annotated 61-8-311, requires drivers to pull over and let faster traffic pass when four or more vehicles are behind them on a two-lane road. This law has been in effect since 1959 but is not well-known among drivers.
How Does the Law Work?
The law applies when a driver is traveling significantly slower than the surrounding flow of traffic and four or more vehicles have stacked up behind them. In this situation, the driver must use the next safe opportunity to let the faster traffic pass. This can be done by pulling over into a safe turnout area or using a suitable shoulder if conditions permit.
Why Was the Law Created?
The law was created to reduce frustration among drivers and prevent risky passing maneuvers. When a queue of vehicles grows, the likelihood of someone attempting a risky pass increases, which can lead to accidents. By requiring slower drivers to pull over, the law aims to keep traffic flowing and reduce the risk of accidents.
How is the Law Enforced?
According to Montana Highway Patrol Sergeant Philip Smart, most encounters with law enforcement regarding this rule are educational rather than punitive. Drivers who are unaware of the law are often informed about it and allowed to continue driving without a fine.
Is Montana the Only State with This Law?
No, Montana is not the only state with laws aimed at preventing rolling roadblocks. However, its approach is unusually specific, with a clear threshold of four or more vehicles behind a slower driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of Montana’s slow driver law?
The purpose of the law is to reduce frustration among drivers and prevent risky passing maneuvers by requiring slower drivers to pull over and let faster traffic pass.
Q: How does the law apply to drivers?
The law applies to drivers who are traveling significantly slower than the surrounding flow of traffic and have four or more vehicles stacked up behind them on a two-lane road.
Q: What happens if a driver is caught violating the law?
According to Montana Highway Patrol Sergeant Philip Smart, most encounters with law enforcement regarding this rule are educational rather than punitive. Drivers who are unaware of the law are often informed about it and allowed to continue driving without a fine.
