New Details on Deadly Crash Highlights Essential Rule for MT

BUTTE, MT - A devastating crash on Interstate 90 near Frenchtown has left three people dead and several others injured, underscoring the deadly risks of winter driving in Montana.

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The accident occurred late Saturday evening when an SUV lost control on the icy highway, setting off a chain reaction of collisions involving multiple vehicles.

What Happened?

According to the Montana Highway Patrol, the crash began when an SUV traveling eastbound lost control, veering off the road before coming to a stop.

Good Samaritans, including a family traveling nearby, pulled over to assist.

Tragically, as they attempted to help, another vehicle struck the scene, leading to the fatalities.

Authorities confirmed that two men and a juvenile were killed in the crash. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

Several other individuals involved in the accident sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

Winter Roads & Montana’s Deadly Trend

This accident is yet another reminder of the perils of Montana’s highways in the winter months.

According to the Montana Department of Transportation, icy roads, low visibility, and unpredictable weather contribute to a significant percentage of the state's fatal accidents each year.

In fact, Montana consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for winter driving. A 2023 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that the state had one of the highest per capita rates of weather-related traffic fatalities.

Roadside Safety: Helping Without Risking Lives

The tragedy near Frenchtown also raises important questions about roadside safety.

While stopping to assist others in distress is an admirable and instinctive reaction, law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of taking precautions.

Montana Highway Patrol advises that anyone stopping to help at an accident scene should:

• Park at a safe distance from the crash, ideally well beyond the wreckage.

• Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.

• Call 911 immediately before exiting the vehicle.

• Stay behind a protective barrier or as far from moving traffic as possible.

The dangers of pulling over on a busy highway, especially in winter conditions, cannot be overstated.

A national study found that nearly 30% of pedestrian fatalities on highways involve people who had exited their vehicles after a crash or breakdown.

Community Reacts

As news of the accident spread, the Frenchtown community expressed grief and concern over the tragedy.

Local residents took to social media to offer condolences and urge drivers to be extra cautious in the coming months.

Others called for increased road maintenance and warning systems in high-risk areas like I-90, where accidents are all too common.

What Comes Next?

Montana Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash, looking into factors such as road conditions, driver speed, and visibility at the time of the incident.

Authorities are also reminding drivers to take winter driving seriously by:

• Checking road conditions before traveling.

• Keeping a winter emergency kit in their vehicle.

• Driving at reduced speeds, even if the speed limit allows for faster travel.

• Leaving extra space between vehicles to allow for sudden stops.

With more winter storms expected in the coming weeks, officials are urging caution for all motorists.

This heartbreaking accident is a somber reminder of how quickly things can turn deadly on Montana’s roads.

As the families affected by this tragedy mourn their losses, the message to all drivers remains clear: Slow down, stay alert, and prioritize safety over speed.