The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will be looking to keep trails safe this weekend.
The DNR is reminding ATV and UTV riders of its Think Smart Before You Start safety campaign, which will be taking place throughout Labor Day Weekend.
Starting today (September 4th) and running through Labor Day (September 7th), there will be a heightened law enforcement presence across Wisconsin on state trails.
This comes as there have been 31 ATV/UTV fatalities in Wisconsin this year, and 66 additional nonfatal accidents.
Regarding this number, Lt. Jacob Holsclaw with the DNR stated, “This is trending in the wrong direction as we continue to see an increase in injury and fatal ATV and UTV crashes – with plenty of riding season left this year.”
He continues to say that the vast majority of fatal crashes and accidents resulting in injuries involve riders not wearing helmets, seatbelts, or both.
The DNR also notes that during the weekend, local law enforcement officers and conservation wardens will focus on safety equipment utilization, OWI detection, and other risky behavior enforcement, such as speeding, that will be among the campaign’s priorities statewide.
More information on how to stay safe on Wisconsin trails this weekend can be found by visiting dnr.wisconsin.gov.
