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Biking on Montana Roads

In Montana, a growing number of cyclists are utilizing bikes for transportation, recreation, or both. But as more Montanans take to the streets and highways on two wheels, the risks increase. Whether you’re commuting in Great Falls, riding the trails around Missoula, or cycling down a rural highway near Helena, one fact remains: when a car hits a bike, the cyclist almost always suffers the most.

Bicycle accidents are unfortunately common—and often serious. If you’ve been hit while riding your bike, you may unsure what your next steps should be. In this post, we’ll break down the exact steps you should take after a bicycle accident, explain why it’s essential to speak to a lawyer right away, and share how Boland Aarab PLLP can help you navigate the road to justice and recovery.

Step One: Get Medical Help Immediately

The first thing to do after any crash is to make sure you’re safe. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Call 911 or ask someone nearby to do it. Paramedics can assess your condition and document your injuries, which can be crucial later.

Common injuries after a bike accident include:

• Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (even with a helmet)
• Broken bones, especially collarbones and wrists
• Road rash and lacerations
• Spinal injuries
• Internal bleeding

Getting prompt medical treatment not only protects your health—it also creates a paper trail that helps prove your injuries if you later make a legal claim.

Step Two: Report the Accident and Gather Evidence

If you’re physically able, call the police and ensure a report is filed. Insist that your side of the story is included in the report. Officers don’t always understand the rules of the road as they apply to cyclists, so it’s important to be clear and accurate.

Take the following steps if you can:

• Get the driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details
• Take photos of the scene, your injuries, your bike, and the vehicle
• Talk to witnesses and collect their names and phone numbers

Don’t assume the driver will “do the right thing” later. Preserve every piece of evidence possible.

Step Three: Don’t Give a Statement to Insurance Without Legal Advice

Insurance companies often call victims within days—or even hours—of an accident. They may sound sympathetic, but make no mistake: their goal is to settle quickly and cheaply. They’ll often ask for a recorded statement, hoping you’ll say something that limits your claim.

You are not required to speak to the other party’s insurance company. In fact, doing so without an attorney can significantly hurt your case.

Step Four: Call a Montana Personal Injury Lawyer with Bicycle Accident Experience

Here’s why this step matters so much:

1. Montana Law Is Complex: Montana law gives cyclists many of the same rights as motorists—but many drivers (and some insurance adjusters) don’t know that. A Montana-based lawyer can educate everyone involved on your rights and ensure they’re enforced.
2. You Might Be Entitled to More Than You Realize: Bicycle accidents can lead to major injuries with long-term effects. An experienced personal injury attorney will evaluate your case for:
   • Medical bills (past and future)
   • Lost wages
   • Pain and suffering
   • Property damage
   • Diminished quality of life
3. We Know How to Deal with Insurance Tactics: Insurance companies are not on your side. At Boland Aarab, we’ve seen every excuse and delay tactic in the book. We handle all communications so you can focus on healing.

Why Choose Boland Aarab PLLP

At Boland Aarab, we’re not a factory firm or a national chain. We’re local Montanans who fight hard for other Montanans. We’ve tried numerous cases to verdict, stood up to major corporations and insurance carriers, successfully appealed decisions, and earned a reputation for being prepared, aggressive, and compassionate.

What sets us apart:

• Local Knowledge: We know the local courts, judges, and insurance players. We’ve handled cases all over Montana.
• Trial Experience: If your case can’t be resolved fairly, we’ll take it to trial. And we know how to win in front of Montana juries.
• Full Support Team: From day one, our lawyers and support staff work together to build your case, collect evidence, and protect your rights.

Montana-Specific Bicycle Laws You Should Know

Montana law (MCA §61-8-601–609) gives cyclists the right to use most roads and requires drivers to give cyclists a safe passing distance. If a driver violated any of these laws, that can serve as strong evidence of negligence.

What If You Didn’t Call the Police or Take Photos?

Many cyclists don’t realize how hurt they are until later. Some are taken to the ER without being able to document the scene. If that’s your situation, don’t worry—we can still help. At Boland Aarab, we conduct our own investigations, interview witnesses, and reconstruct accidents using experts if needed. The sooner you contact us, the better.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

In Montana, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. But waiting is risky. Evidence disappears. Witnesses move. Memories fade.

If you were hit while on your bike, call us now—not next month. The earlier we can get involved, the better your chances of recovering full compensation.

Call Boland Aarab Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Montana, don’t go it alone. Let us help you recover what you’re owed.

At Boland Aarab PLLP, your consultation is always free, and you won’t pay a dime unless we win. We’re proud to serve Montanans across the state—from Great Falls and Billings to Bozeman, Missoula, and beyond.

Visit our site today or call (406) 315-3737.

We’re here when you need us—on your side, and on your case.