Montana's Riding Season and Its Risks
Montana's short, spectacular riding season draws motorcyclists onto routes like the Beartooth Highway, Going-to-the-Sun Road, and the long open stretches of US-2 and US-93. With little protection between a rider and the road, even a low-speed collision can cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, road rash, and multiple fractures. Mountain weather can change in minutes, loose gravel collects on shoulders and switchbacks, and wildlife crossings add a hazard that car drivers rarely think about.
The Bias Riders Face — and How We Counter It
Motorcyclists are too often blamed for crashes that were not their fault. Insurance adjusters lean on the stereotype that riders are reckless, hoping to reduce or deny valid claims. The reality is that most motorcycle crashes are caused by other drivers who fail to yield, turn left across a rider's path, change lanes without looking, or simply do not see the motorcycle. Our network attorneys know how to push back on this bias with crash reconstruction, witness testimony, and physical evidence that establishes what actually happened.
Montana Helmet Law and Your Claim
Montana requires helmets only for riders under 18. For adult riders, choosing not to wear a helmet does not bar a claim, though an insurer may argue it about certain head-injury damages. Under Montana's modified comparative negligence rule (Mont. Code Ann. § 27-1-702), you can still recover as long as you were less than 51% at fault, with any recovery reduced by your share. An experienced attorney can keep the focus on the at-fault driver's negligence.
Compensation for Montana Riders
Riders may recover medical expenses, future care costs, lost income and earning capacity, motorcycle and gear damage, and non-economic damages for pain, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. In crashes involving drunk or grossly negligent drivers, punitive damages may apply.
Montana deadline: Most motorcycle accident claims must be filed within three years from the date of injury under the statute of limitations. Evidence fades fast — don't wait to learn your rights.
Motorcycle Accident FAQs in Montana
Montana only requires helmets for riders under 18. For adults, going without a helmet does not bar your claim, though it may be raised regarding specific head-injury damages. You can still recover if you were less than 51% at fault.
Often yes. Many motorcycle crashes are caused by drivers who fail to see or yield to riders. Crash reconstruction and witness evidence can establish the truth.
It depends on the severity of your injuries, your losses, and the available coverage. A free case review is the best way to understand your claim's value.