Madison, Wis. — A newly released review from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources shows the state has recorded the highest number of fatal all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and utility task vehicle (UTV) crashes in the nation this year, underscoring growing safety concerns for off‑highway vehicle riders.
Counts and trends
The DNR report tallied 29 deaths linked to off‑highway vehicle crashes so far this year. Of those fatalities, 13 involved ATVs and 16 involved UTVs. DNR officials said a large majority of victims were not using basic protective equipment at the time of the crashes.
| Vehicle type | Fatalities (year to date) |
|---|---|
| ATV | 13 |
| UTV | 16 |
| Total | 29 |
Officials point to preventable causes
Jake Holsclaw, an off‑highway vehicle administrator with the DNR, told reporters the agency sees repeated patterns in the investigations. Officials say that in more than 90% of the fatal crashes, victims were not wearing seatbelts or helmets — basic safety measures that they say would reduce the risk of severe injuries and deaths.
“I think people are just choosing to not be safe when they do it,” Jake Holsclaw said.
Holsclaw emphasized that seatbelts and helmets are key protective elements. “They’re choosing to not wear seatbelts, not wear helmets, and seatbelt and helmets are like the two key things that are really involved in helping to save people’s lives for sure,” he said.
Where Wisconsin stands
The DNR assessment places Wisconsin at the top among states for off‑highway vehicle fatalities in the current reporting period. Officials did not release a breakdown by county in the initial summary. The statewide tally includes both single‑vehicle and multi‑vehicle incidents, and covers crashes occurring on private land, trails and public rights‑of‑way where those vehicles are permitted.
What the DNR recommends
The department continues to push safety messaging aimed at riders of all ages. Recommendations reiterated by the DNR include:
- Wear a properly fitted helmet whenever operating or riding on an ATV or UTV.
- Use seatbelts in vehicles equipped with them — especially in UTVs designed to carry passengers.
- Avoid impaired driving: do not operate off‑highway vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Riders should take safety courses, follow manufacturer guidelines for passenger capacity and vehicle use, and avoid risky behaviors like excessive speed or reckless maneuvers.
Public response and enforcement
The DNR’s notice comes as local law enforcement agencies continue standard patrols and enforcement on trails and riding areas. The agency said it will increase public education efforts and work with county land managers and rider groups to promote safer habits, though officials stopped short of announcing new statewide regulatory changes in the initial release.
Advocates for rider safety have long urged broader adoption of training and stricter enforcement of helmet and seatbelt requirements, arguing that attention to those measures could sharply reduce the number of fatal outcomes.
Practical information for riders
Riders seeking more information on training, registration, and safe‑riding practices can consult the DNR’s off‑highway vehicle resources on its website or contact local DNR offices. The department also offers lists of approved safety courses and guidelines for carrying passengers, equipment and emergency supplies.
With warm weather still drawing many people to trails and rural roads, the DNR urges riders and landowners to prioritize safety and check local ordinances and trail rules before heading out.
The DNR report is part of an ongoing tally of off‑highway vehicle incidents that the agency updates as investigations are completed. Officials said they will continue to monitor trends and share new findings as they become available.
