Just Because You Can Doesn't Mean You Should in Great Falls

I have had to use the shoelace express more than I really care to admit. Or more the reason behind why I had to walk everywhere is more the embarrassment. After losing my license many years ago, I needed to walk everywhere. Work, fun, anywhere. Always walking. One thing I learned while doing so was that even if I thought I had the right of way, always keep an eye on any vehicle that is approaching you while crossing a street.

Weren't We All Taught This as a Child?

At some point in time, we were all taught to look both ways before crossing the street. It was ingrained into us every day that we left the house. Watch out for traffic! So, what happened? I can't even count how many times someone has taken their sweet time to get across the street, even though there is a full line of traffic coming at them. Oftentimes, they seem offended that you are having to wait for them, vs the other way around.

Do You Know the Law for Pedestrians in Montana?

From the Montana Legislature code website, pedestrians using the streets to cross must follow the following law:

Crossing At Other Than Crosswalks
61-8-503. Crossing at other than crosswalks. (1) Every pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
(2) Any pedestrian crossing a roadway at a point where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
(3) Between adjacent intersections at which traffic control signals are in operation pedestrians shall not cross at any place except in a marked crosswalk.

Using a crosswalk that is marked? I am happy to wait. But for all the other instances referenced above? Knees to chest! Knees to chest! Stop looking at your phone and pick up the pace, please!