WISCONSIN — Most of the Badger State saw its first significant snowfall late this week. While many Wisconsinites may be ready to hit snowmobile trails, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding riders to keep safety at the top of their minds.

What You Need To Know

  • DNR said two of the most common factors to off-highway vehicle crashes during the holiday season are weak ice and impaired vehicle operation

  • In 2024 so far, there have been three deaths from snowmobile-related crashes in Wisconsin, per DNR. All of those deaths happened in Jan. 2024. One of them involved “drug impairment.” Alcohol was not involved in the other two fatalities

  • DNR reminded Wisconsinites it is illegal to operate a snowmobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so puts the driver, passengers and others in the area at risk

  • Additionally, it’s important to monitor ice conditions. DNR said it does not monitor ice conditions but said a local expert — such as a bait shop employee, fishing club or outfitter — can help

DNR said two of the most common factors to off-highway vehicle crashes during the holiday season are weak ice and impaired vehicle operation.

DNR reminded Wisconsinites that both are normally preventable.

In 2024 so far, there have been three deaths from snowmobile-related crashes in Wisconsin, per DNR. All of those deaths happened in Jan. 2024. One of them involved “drug impairment.” Alcohol was not involved in the other two fatalities.

In 2023, Wisconsin saw 16 deaths because of snowmobile-related crashes. Alcohol was involved in 10 of those deaths. Officials said nine of those 10 incidents involved someone who was legally drunk, with a BAC above 0.08. One involved someone who had alcohol in their system but was not legally drunk, with a BAC of 0.03.

“If you choose to consume alcohol, wait until after you’ve returned to your home or cabin to do so. Crashes that involve alcohol are almost always preventable,” Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator, said.

DNR reminded Wisconsinites it is illegal to operate a snowmobile while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so puts the driver, passengers and others in the area at risk.

DNR asked people to make plans to get home safely and drive and ride sober.

It’s important to monitor ice conditions. DNR said it does not monitor ice conditions but said a local expert — such as a bait shop employee, fishing club or outfitter — can help.

If you are hitting the ice, DNR said to bring float coats, life jackets and rescue ropes in case of an emergency. Avoid places that can have thin ice and don’t travel during low visibility times.

DNR said never go out onto the ice alone. Go with someone, bring a cellphone and make sure someone knows where you are and when you should be back.

View ice safety information, here.

View snowmobile regulations, here. 

Related Stories

-

Facebook Twitter