Summer calls for ATV rides out on the trails and usually means that UTVs can be found more frequently out on the ATV routes. Before heading out for a ride, it’s important to understand the difference between ATV trails and routes and check that you have everything you need for a safe ride.
Lt. Martin Stone, Conservation Warden and Off Highway Vehicle Administrator for Wisconsin DNR, outlines how to operate on ATV routes and ensure a safe ride.
Lt. Stone mentions that ATV trails are off-road paths open to the public, while ATV routes are located on highways that connect those trails. This poses potential safety concerns because the ATVs and UTVs operate alongside cars and other motor vehicles on those routes.
Some safety advice that Lt. Stone offers is to wear a DOT-approved helmet, always wear your seatbelt while operating a UTV, and drive on the right-most side of the road when driving on ATV routes.
Lt. Stone reminds us that all riders born on or after January 1, 1988, need to complete an ATV safety course to operate on public trails and routes. This course is open for anyone to take, and Lt. Stone encourages riders born before that date to take the course as well.
For more information about ATV/UTV use and courses, visit https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/atv.
Leave a Reply