New List Shows Montana’s Top 5 Most Dangerous Highways

BUTTE, MT - Many flock to Montana for its scenic vistas, open skies, and sprawling mountain ranges, but behind the state's natural beauty lies a dark truth.

Get our free mobile app

According to recent data, Montana ranks as one of the most dangerous states in the nation for drivers, with a staggering 22.6 car accident deaths per 100,000 people.

For a state without many major cities or dense traffic, the statistic seems surprising at first. But when you dig a little deeper, it becomes clear why Montana’s roads are so deadly.

Low seat belt usage—just 74% compared to the national average of 87%—is a major factor. Add in a deep-rooted culture of drinking and driving, and suddenly the wide-open roads become a treacherous gamble.

Whether you’re commuting from one town to the next or hauling a trailer through the Rockies, you’re often sharing the pavement with speeding semis, distracted drivers, and unpredictable wildlife.

While this data is somewhat dated, it underscores longstanding concerns about road safety in Montana.

More recent reports continue to reflect similar issues. For instance, a 2022 article from NewsTalk KGVO noted that Montana had a fatality rate of 51.23%, accounting for 1,003 deaths out of 1,958 people involved in accidents, ranking it second in the U.S. for fatal crashes at that time.

What Are the 5 Most Dangerous Highways in Montana?

Below is a breakdown of the top five most dangerous highways in Montana. These are the stretches of road that have claimed the most lives, caused the most fear, and earned the worst reputations.