Is It Illegal In MT To Cut A Red Light Through A Parking Lot?

Although traffic in Great Falls isn't that bad compared to larger towns in Montana like Billings, Bozeman or Missoula, at times it can seem like it is when a person is impatient, or late for work or an engagement.

Get our free mobile app

I have noticed something waiting on the red light to change on the street.

Certain people using parking lots to cut red lights during high traffic situations. It seems like a legit hack for a faster way to get somewhere and getting ahead of a quite a bit of traffic.

I hate to call out certain cars that I see because anyone can do this, but I usually see giant, jacked-up pickup trucks monster truck past lights and hit the adjacent street.

Yes, I used a "Monster Truck" as a verbal phrase.

I've seen this in three specific places, there are maybe more places, but it's where I've seen.

HERE

HERE

And HERE

I've witnessed this a number of times and seen it happen in the presence of a police officer, nothing happened.

Which brings me to this question. Is it illegal to cut a light through a parking lot?

I learned that there is a term for this. It's called Rat-Running.

And yes, It's illegal in the state of Montana and most states to do so with the exceptions to law enforcement and emergency vehicles, also to avoid some traffic situations like work or collisions.

Although this ticket may be arguable in court like saying that one was checking the current gas prices or entering the wrong property or business, but it might be worth your while to just wait for the light to turn green.

Drive safe out there.