Ride Safe, Sober And Wear A Helmet When Operating ATVs And UTVs

Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources

Ride Safe, Sober And Wear A Helmet When Operating ATVs And UTVs

A red UTV riding along a gravel trail lined with tall trees.

So far in 2024, there have been 18 deaths related to ATV/UTVs on Wisconsin trails, routes and highways, putting the state on pace to surpass last year’s total of 32 ATV/UTV fatalities. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

Residents and tourists alike know Wisconsin offers world-class ATV and UTV riding opportunities, making the Badger State a top destination for this popular outdoor activity.

With that popularity has come preventable crashes that have caused severe injuries and fatalities. So far in 2024, there have been 20 deaths related to ATV/UTVs on Wisconsin trails, routes and highways, putting the state on pace to surpass last year’s total of 32 ATV/UTV fatalities. Further, there have been 73 non-fatal injury crashes involving ATV/UTV operators thus far 2024.

Riders should be sure to note that not all roads are open to these off-highway vehicles. Be sure to check with the county and municipality where you will ride to use routes open to ATV/UTVs, and only use those routes. More than half of the fatalities in 2024 have occurred on road routes and public roads closed to ATV/UTV traffic.

One of the best things ATV/UTV operators can do to operate safely is to take an online safety course. Wisconsin law requires ATV/UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, who are at least 12 years old for an ATV (and at least 16 years old for UTV) to complete a safety certification course if riding on public lands, roads or another person’s property with permission.

Courses can be taken online or in person. A list of approved safety education classes is available on the DNR Safety Education webpage.

Some additional things to keep in mind when operating your recreational vehicle include:

Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during your ride.
Do not travel in unfamiliar areas.
Follow all posted speed limits and regulatory signs.
Let someone not riding with you know where you are going and when you will return.

Additionally, Wisconsin law requires every operator involved in a crash incident to report the incident to law enforcement officials without delay. Operators must submit a written report to the DNR within 10 days of the incident.

For more information on ATV and UTV recreation in Wisconsin, visit the DNR’s ATV/UTV riding in Wisconsin webpage.