With the holiday weekend ahead, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging ATV and UTV riders to keep safety at the forefront of their adventures. Last year's statistics are a sobering reminder that such precautions are more than just guidelines—they can be life-saving. In a stark recount, the DNR highlighted that 40 people lost their lives in ATV/UTV crashes in Wisconsin in 2024, and most of them were not wearing helmets.
"We really want to encourage folks to prioritize safety this season," Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, the DNR off-highway vehicle administrator, told the Wisconsin DNR. He noted that speed and reckless operation often lead to preventable crashes. The DNR recommends wearing a Department of Transportation-approved helmet and using seatbelts when available in UTVs, as part of their safe riding campaign.
Additional safety tips from the DNR include a clear stance against riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs and the avoidance of traveling in unfamiliar areas. Sticking to posted speed limits, compliance with regulatory signs, and alerting someone about your travel plans and expected return are also on the list of precautions. Previous records show that more than 150 crashes involving off-road vehicles happened on Wisconsin roads in 2024, with many occurring on routes closed to ATV/UTV traffic.
Furthermore, there are specific age and education requirements in place to operate these vehicles responsibly. Operators aged at least 12 and born after Jan. 1, 1988, must complete a DNR-approved safety course—a measure aimed at reducing the risk of accidents. For those looking to brush up on DNR regulations and potentially life-saving ATV safety classes, resources are available on the DNR's website.
