As summer heats up and more people hit Wisconsin’s trails, the state Department of Natural Resources is urging UTV riders to buckle up and ride safely. So far this year, there have been 23 fatal UTV and ATV crashes across Wisconsin. Alarming numbers from the DNR show that in only five of those cases were the riders wearing seatbelts. Utility Terrain Vehicles — or UTVs — have been involved in 86 percent of all deadly off-road crashes in 2025. Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, the DNR’s off-highway vehicle administrator, says seatbelts and roll cages are designed to save lives — but only if they’re used. “Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe while riding.” Unlike traditional ATVs, UTVs come equipped with seatbelts for all passengers — and wearing one isn’t just smart, it’s the law in Wisconsin. The DNR also reminds parents: kids under 16 are not allowed to drive full-size UTVs on public trails, and anyone born after January 1st, 1988, must complete a state-approved safety course to ride legally. To learn more or sign up for a safety class, visit the DNR’s ATV/UTV webpage.