As ATV and UTV season begins, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding riders of the importance of safety and certification. In 2023, there were 40 fatalities in ATV and UTV incidents across the state, with many involving riders who were not wearing helmets. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources emphasizes that completing a safety certification course is a key step in preventing injuries and deaths.
According to Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, the DNR’s off-highway vehicle administrator, the main goal of the safety course is crash prevention. Wisconsin law requires anyone aged 12 and older, born after January 1, 1988, to complete a DNR-approved ATV/UTV safety course in order to legally operate these vehicles. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources also encourages all riders, regardless of age or experience, to take the course.
The DNR’s 2024 Recreational Vehicle Annual Report highlights that lack of preparation is a common factor in many serious crashes. Whether riding occasionally or regularly, the agency stresses that safety training is essential.
More information about safety requirements and courses is available on the DNR’s ATV Crash Information webpage. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages all riders to complete a course and wear proper safety gear, including helmets, to help ensure safe experiences on Wisconsin’s trails.
