When Tech Saves Lives – Montana’s Road to Safer Streets

How can Montana, a state known for its vast landscapes and open roads, ensure safety for all who travel them? With rising traffic volumes and increasing numbers of cyclists and pedestrians, the challenge of preventing accidents and fatalities has become more pressing than ever.

Montana is addressing these concerns through a multi-faceted approach that combines cutting-edge technology, targeted infrastructure improvements, and a commitment to building a culture of safety. Let’s take a look at how these efforts are making a tangible impact and what lies ahead for traffic safety in the Treasure State.

The State of Traffic Safety in Montana Today

As of November 2024, Montana has reported 175 highway fatalities, a slight increase from 171 during the same period in 2023. This uptick underscores the persistent challenges in ensuring road safety across the state. Notably, Montana’s traffic fatality rate in 2021 was 1.77 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, ranking fifth highest nationally and exceeding the U.S. average of 1.35.

Pedestrians and cyclists remain particularly vulnerable. Between 2019 and 2021, fatalities among these groups increased, prompting the Montana Department of Transportation to conduct a Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessment in July 2023. This assessment aims to identify safety issues and develop targeted strategies to protect non-motorized road users.

In response to these concerns, Montana has implemented several initiatives. The MDT’s Vision Zero program strives for zero deaths and serious injuries on Montana’s roadways. The state has also invested in infrastructure improvements, such as expanding bike lanes and enhancing pedestrian crossings, to create safer environments for all road users.

Technology Changing the Game on Montana Roads

Montana is actively integrating advanced technologies to enhance road safety for all users. The MDT has implemented intelligent transportation systems that utilize real-time data to monitor traffic conditions, manage incidents, and optimize traffic flow. These systems employ sensors and cameras to detect congestion and accidents, enabling prompt responses to mitigate potential hazards.

In collaboration with the Western Transportation Institute at Montana State University, MDT is developing rural-specific safety solutions. Given Montana’s extensive rural road network, technologies such as automated warning systems and dynamic message signs are being deployed to alert drivers about adverse conditions like wildlife crossings and severe weather. These measures aim to reduce accidents in areas where traditional infrastructure may be limited.

MDT is also exploring the implementation of connected vehicle technologies to improve communication between vehicles and infrastructure. By facilitating the exchange of information on road conditions, traffic signals, and potential hazards, these technologies can enhance situational awareness for drivers, leading to safer driving behaviors and reduced collision risks.

Investing in Infrastructure to Protect Cyclists and Pedestrians

Montana is actively investing in infrastructure to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians. The Montana Department of Transportation developed the state’s first Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan in 2019, aiming to establish a consistent approach for considering pedestrian and bicycle modes, improve safety, and create a more walk- and bike-friendly Montana.

However, despite these efforts, accidents involving cyclists still occur, and individuals impacted by such incidents often turn to a lawyer specializing in bicycle-related injuries to navigate their legal options and seek fair compensation.

Local initiatives further demonstrate Montana’s commitment to pedestrian and cyclist safety. For instance, the City of Billings is updating its Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan to establish both short-term and long-term priorities for infrastructure improvements. This plan includes the development of new bike paths, sidewalks, and other facilities to accommodate the demands of future traffic, ensuring a safer environment for non-motorized road users.

Building a Culture of Safety – The Human Factor

Montana’s commitment to enhancing road safety extends beyond technological advancements to fostering a proactive traffic safety culture. The MDT leads the Traffic Safety Culture transportation pooled fund study, a national research consortium focused on creating tools to positively promote and change culture. Since 2015, this initiative has engaged states across the country, raising over $2.6 million in commitments to fund research and technology transfer efforts.

A key component of this initiative is the Traffic Safety Culture Primer, developed to provide a definition of traffic safety culture and explain how it influences road user behavior and traffic safety. This resource aids stakeholders in communicating effectively about traffic safety culture and its relationship to vision zero goals.

MDT also collaborates with the Center for Health and Safety Culture within the Western Transportation Institute at Montana State University. This partnership focuses on accelerating the development and delivery of tools and services to transform traffic safety culture, supporting the Toward Zero Deaths vision with sustainable traffic safety solutions.

The Future of Traffic Safety in Montana

Montana is actively pursuing advancements in traffic safety by integrating emerging technologies and strategic planning. The MDT is exploring the implementation of connected vehicle technologies to enhance communication between vehicles and infrastructure, aiming to improve situational awareness and reduce collision risks.

In addition to technological innovations, Montana is focusing on infrastructure improvements to support the adoption of electric vehicles. The state plans to build “alternative fuel corridors” with charging stations located at least every 50 miles along major highways, including I-15, I-90, I-94, US-2, and US-93.

MDT is also committed to fostering a proactive traffic safety culture through education and community engagement. Collaborations with research institutions like the WTI at Montana State University focus on developing innovative solutions tailored to Montana’s unique transportation challenges, such as improving infrastructure resilience and advancing traffic safety measures.

Conclusion

What will it take for Montana to achieve its vision of zero roadway fatalities? A combination of cutting-edge technology, data-driven infrastructure investments, and community-centered education initiatives are paving the way. By addressing the unique challenges of rural and urban traffic alike, Montana is setting a precedent for safety-focused innovation.

The state’s proactive measures, from connected vehicle technology to dedicated bike and pedestrian pathways, reflect a commitment to protecting all road users. With continued collaboration, research, and public engagement, the goal of safer roads is not just aspirational, it’s achievable.

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