Spring and summer in Wisconsin are great times to take the family on a road trip or hop on an all-terrain or utility-terrain vehicle (ATV/UTV) for some outdoor fun. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Department of Natural Resources are asking everyone – no matter what they’re operating – stay attentive, patient and safe.
ATV/UTV registration grew 19 percent over the past five years, totaling 396,611 at the end of 2018. Motorists and riders could be sharing the road more frequently in some areas. State law allows municipalities to designate their roadways as ATV/UTV routes. In addition, a municipality may authorize the operation of ATVs/UTVs on any highway within its territorial boundary that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less.
Safety tips for motorists:
- Watch for riders. Always eliminate distractions. Be patient and stay focused.
- When you approach an ATV/UTV on the road, slow down and be patient for a safe opportunity to pass.
- As ATV/UTVs are much wider than bicycle or motorcycle, motorists are likely to require space from the opposing travel lane while passing.
- Keep an eye out for ATV route signs and remember the law allows postings at territorial boundaries so motorists may not see additional signage along individual roads.
Safety tips for ATV/UTV riders:
- Stick to authorized areas. Most highways and roads statewide remain off limits. Check for ATV/UTV route signs or with local authorities to see if certain highways and roads are legally open.
- Travel at an appropriate speed and remain aware of your surroundings.
- Consider wearing high-visibility gear. As some drivers might not expect to be sharing the road with an ATV/UTV, it can help to be seen from afar.
- Riders are required to operate headlight(s) when on or around roadways.
- Helmets and protective gear save lives and are highly encouraged for everyone, but also are a legal obligation for riders and passengers under 18 with limited exceptions.
- All UTV riders and passengers must have seatbelts fastened at all times.
- It is illegal for passengers to sit anywhere not specifically designed or intended for passenger use.
- Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during ATV/UTV operation.
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