June Marks Deadliest Month on Montana Highways in Decade

According to the Montana Department of Transportation, the month of June was the deadliest on Montana roadways in 10 years.

With the alarming increase in crashes, the Montana Department of Transportation is urging travelers to remember the serious nature of driving.

Memorial Day to Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer due to the increased traffic deaths nationwide. At other times of the year, travelers often choose to travel less, stay closer to home, and use increased caution.

However, in the summer, clear roadways and better weather in Montana lower drivers’ guards, leading to increased crashes and deaths involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, pedestrians, and bicycles.

Nearly 30 deaths have occurred on Montana roads since the beginning of June, and MDT says there is not one leading cause for the increase.

According to MDT, these numbers are a surprising change from the recent past where the trend has been mostly positive, with much lower fatality and serious injury rates.

Director of the Montana Department of Transportation Mike Tooley said.

“Folks are out enjoying our beautiful state and great weather, but people are dying. It is everyone’s responsibility to stay vigilant while on the road. Crashes are preventable, and so is the pain of losing a loved one.”

MDT is reminding drivers to always:

• Follow posted speed limits.
• Be rested and give your full attention to driving
• Keep your vehicle in safe running condition
• Scan your travel area for safety hazards such as pedestrians and animals
• Expect the unexpected
• Buckle up and drive sober.

This information was provided by the Montana Department of Transportation.