The #1 Reason Montana Drivers Are Pulled Over (How to Avoid)

BUTTE, MT - Driving in Montana can feel like a dream—wide-open roads, stunning mountain views, and the occasional bison or elk traffic jam.

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But don’t let the Big Sky fool you; those long stretches of highway are still patrolled by law enforcement, and certain driving behaviors will make you stick out like a sore thumb.

Let's take a look at the more common reasons Montanans are pulled over before looking at the number one reason:

The Distracted Driver Shuffle

Ever tried sneaking a glance at your phone while driving? Bad move. Using a handheld device while behind the wheel is a big no-no in Montana. If you’re caught texting or scrolling through an app, you can expect flashing lights in your rearview mirror.

Pro tip: invest in a hands-free setup or just wait until you’re parked to fire off that text.

The Aggressive Road Warrior

Tailgating, swerving in and out of lanes, or pretending you're in a Fast & Furious sequel will draw attention—just not the kind you want. Montana law enforcement takes aggressive driving seriously, especially on busy stretches like I-90.

Chill out, take a deep breath, and enjoy the scenery instead.

Buzzed Driving is Busted Driving

You know it: Montana has strict DUI laws. Holidays and weekends bring increased patrols, so if you’ve been sipping on local craft beer, call a friend or a rideshare. Even better, plan ahead and stay where the party is.

The Seat Belt Saga

Think you can skip the seat belt because you’re just “popping down the road”? Think again. Montana law requires everyone in the car to buckle up, and cops will stop you if they spot an unbelted driver or passenger.

The Clunker Conundrum

Broken taillights, expired plates, or a license plate hidden under six months of mud are surefire ways to get stopped. Before you hit the road, give your car a quick once-over. A little maintenance can save you a lot of hassle.

Take a look below for the number one reason.