A 13-year-old girl was seriously injured Friday afternoon when an ATV rolled over in the Town of Rhine, sending her by helicopter to Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Investigators are examining whether the vehicle also rolled over her during the crash.
The crash happened around 4:21 p.m. near Little Elkhart Lake Road, according to WTMJ. Elkhart Lake police said the ATV threw the girl from the vehicle, and the first responding officer requested a Flight for Life helicopter for the trip to Milwaukee.
Helmet Rules Put Youth Safety In Focus
The girl was not wearing a helmet, and police said speed does not appear to have contributed to the crash. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says every ATV or UTV rider under 18 must wear a properly sized, DOT-approved helmet, while operators at least 12 years old generally must complete a DNR-approved safety course before riding on public trails and routes.
Those requirements are part of the state’s broader push to reduce serious injuries involving off-road vehicles. In a July safety reminder, the Wisconsin DNR urged parents and mentors to model helmet and seatbelt use and to make sure youth operate age-appropriate vehicles.
Girl’s Condition Has Not Been Released
The girl’s current condition was not available Saturday, and no additional details about the crash were immediately released. WTMJ reported that the investigation remained ongoing.
