GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – ATVs and UTVs will be breaking the dust off of them in the coming weeks with warmer temperatures on the horizon.
That means it is a good time to get a refresher on the safety needed to operate these machines.
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“The popularity of ATVs and UTVs has grown significantly over the past few years, and with that there are a lot more units on the trails, which can always pose more danger,” said Ken’s Sports Green Bay owner Brad Majeski. “So the manufacturers have taken steps to make sure these machines are safe. They understand as they improve these units, they are faster, and speed is always a concern.”
Helmet improvements, new regulations on how many people can ride on the back of an ATV and roll cage improvements are just some ways the machines are getting safer.
But it can come back to the driver to make sure they are being safe.
“The consumer has to take responsibility, just like with anything else, whether it’s a snowmobile, a boat or your car,” said Majeski. “The consumer has to take their own responsibility in operating the unit safely on the trails and on the roads.”
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says that means getting certified to drive on the roads and trails in Northeast Wisconsin.
“No matter how old you get, you’ll never age out of it. You need that ATV safety certification through the department,” said Jason Roberts, a warden for the Wisconsin DNR. “So if you get stopped by me, another warden, deputy or a local cop, they’re going to ask you for that in addition to your regular driver’s license.”
And even if you think you do not need a helmet to drive a UTV, think again.
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“People have these enclosed UTVs where they feel like they’re in a motor vehicle,” said Roberts. “They do not have the same security systems that a motor vehicle has, as far as airbags and a reinforced cage around it, you know, the seat belt systems.”
The DNR also says to check with local sporting groups and UTV clubs for more information on safety checks for your machine and the local trails and roadways.
