Montana drivers are well aware of the laws and regulations that apply to them when they are out on the roads and driving. They know they need to obey the speed limits and use their signals when turning and changing lanes. However, they also need to understand all of the laws associated with parking their vehicle. If they do not, they run the risk of getting a fine. In some cases, they may even have their vehicle towed. One of the first things you will want to learn is what the colors mean for different curbs.
What do the colored curbs mean?
The colored curb markings help to dictate what type of parking, if any, is allowed in that particular area. If the zone is painted white, then it means that you can stop, but only for a very short time. These are typically used when loading or unloading passengers from the vehicle. As soon as they are in the car or have gone, you will need to move the vehicle.
If the curb is painted yellow, this indicates that you can load and unload your vehicle. In most cases, you will need to stay with the vehicle. This means you can’t park there for any longer than it takes to load and unload.
A red curb means that you cannot stop, stand, or park at the curb with your vehicle. Often, it is a fire lane.
Other rules to remember about Montana parking
There are many places where you are not allowed to park, and it is important to keep these in mind. Drivers cannot park in an intersection, or within 20 feet of a crosswalk or a sidewalk at an intersection. If an area is undergoing construction, you cannot park in the area if your vehicle could block traffic.
Drivers are not permitted to park within 30 feet of a yield sign, stop sign, or traffic signal. You can’t park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, or 50 feet from a railroad crossing. In addition, you have to be within 18 inches from the curb when you are parking.
If you are parking on the same side of the street as a fire station, you need to be at least 20 feet away from the entrance. If you are parking on the other side of the street, you need to be at least 75 feet from their driveway entrance. The fire engines generally come out quickly, and they need to have plenty of space.
You can never park in an area that causes you to block a driveway, an alley, a private road, or a lowered or removed curb for access to the sidewalk. Never park on a bridge, an elevated structure, tunnel, or underpass. Do not park on the wrong side of the street, on railroad tracks or in handicapped spaces. Also, it is illegal to double park in Montana.
Always check for signage in the area to determine whether you are allowed to park there or not.
