
National Spotlight on Montana: House Bill 124 and the Future of Cycling Safety
Montana's 69th Legislature is currently in session. This is when bills are introduced with the hope that they will become laws in our state. Bills are proposed to tackle a variety of issues affecting many Montanans, covering almost every aspect of our lives.
One Montana bill, House Bill 124, has garnered national attention. While simple in concept, it could have a significant impact on many Montanans.
The bill proposes making it illegal for bicycles to ride with the flow of traffic on roadways, instead requiring them to ride against traffic. The language of the bill states:
"(1) A person operating a bicycle on a roadway without a flag vehicle escort shall ride opposite the flow of traffic. (2) A person operating a bicycle on a roadway with a flag vehicle escort shall ride with the flow of traffic."
The bill was introduced by Eric Albus of Glasgow, Eric Tilleman of Cascade, and Brandon Ler of Savage, Montana. It has received national attention from Cycling West. The League of American Bicyclists recommends to "always ride with the flow of traffic".
Bicycle riding in Montana is a popular activity, whether it is mountain biking on some epic trails, or just getting around town. There are areas in Missoula that are very dangerous to try to navigate on a bicycle.
Read More: Most Dangerous Streets in Missoula for Bicycle Riders
Whenever there is a proposal to change something there always seems to be questions. Will this change make our roads safer for both bicyclists and vehicle drivers? How will they enforce these laws?
Now that the bill has been proposed this is the opportunity for the men and women representing Montanans to discuss and debate the possible changes to our laws. Even if you don't ride a bicycle in Montana this will affect everyone who drives any type of vehicle on the roads we all share.
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