Off-Road Death Tally Rises to 26 in Wisconsin
The number of off-roading deaths in Wisconsin has grown to 26, with some of them as result of alcohol and not wearing helmets
A surprising and seriously worrying number of 26 is how many people have died from accidents when off-roading in Wisconsin, and that’s just 2024.
Whether it’s riding motorcycles, ATV or UTV (side-by-side) off-road machines, the risk of off-roading is high especially if you’re inexperienced. But that’s not what seems to have been behind a lot of the accidents in Wisconsin this year.
Wearing a helmet, no matter what bike or ATV you are riding should be a default setting in your mind, and quite frankly common sense. But that’s exactly what some of the people who lost their lives didn’t do.
18 out of the 26 people who died were not wearing helmets, while another alarming cause has been cited for five of the deaths, and that is being under the influence of alcohol. That might not end up being the final total as five is ‘at least’ the number attached to some of the accidents, while a further 14 are still being investigated.
First reported by Rideapart, Maj. April Dombrowski, the head of DNR’s recreational safety section, released a statement saying: “If this pace continues, we will pass last year’s 32 lives lost in ATV/UTV-related crashes.
“We’re asking everyone who enjoys ATVs and UTVs to take a moment, [and] make safety a part of your conversation and your outing.”
According to state rules of Wisconsin riders under the age of 18 and those with instruction permits are required to wear helmets. Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders, but like in some other states in America, they are not required for riders over 18. Vehicle operators who carry passengers under 18 without helmets can be fined and receive demerit points.
Concerning the 26 deaths in Wisconsin since the beginning of 2024 the age range is extremely alarming and sad, spanning the age of four all the way up to 79.
Not wearing a helmet and the use of alcohol are two things you should never do when riding a motorcycle, ATV or UTV. Take our advice and remain safe.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
