ATV/UTV riders: Ride safe this holiday weekend

MADISON – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges ATV/UTV riders to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday responsibly, ride sober and keep their speed in check.

So far this year, 17 people have been killed in ATV/UTV crashes. Most of them were not wearing seat belts or helmets, and alcohol and speed were also contributing factors.

Choosing to wear the appropriate safety gear and operating responsibly significantly reduces the chance of severe injury or a fatal crash.

“When people mix alcohol, speed and poor decisions with ATVs and UTVs, there are no good outcomes,” said Lt. Warden Jacob Holsclaw, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator. “The important thing to remember is that nearly all injury-inducing crashes can be prevented by taking the proper precautions and operating within your capabilities.”

One of the best things ATV and UTV operators can do to operate safely is to take an online safety course. A list of approved safety education classes is available on the DNR’s 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.

Wisconsin law also 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 about ATV and UTV recreation in Wisconsin, visit the DNR’s ATV/UTV Riding in Wisconsin webpage.