On the heels of a record number of fatalities in 2024 involving off-highway vehicles, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources urges all riders to prioritize safety wherever they’re riding.
Of the 30 incidents last year, which resulted in 32 fatalities, more than threequarters occurred on roadways or in ditches.
The other seven incidents occurred on private property (four), on a trail (two), and on public property (one). Twenty-six of the operators involved did not have ATV safety certification, which is required of anyone born after July 1, 1987, and who is 12 years or older, to operate on public lands or waters, public road rightsof-way, or state grant-in-aid trails.
A list of currently available ATV safety classes can be found on the DNR website (mndnr.gov/safety/vehicle/atv).
Among the most common violations conservation officers continue to see is youth riders not wearing helmets. Riders under the age of 18 must wear a DOTapproved helmet, and it’s recommended all riders wear one. Other ways riders can help ensure a safe ride include:
• When they’re open, ride only on designated trails. Stay to the right and travel at a safe speed.
• Ride sober.
• Remember that riders under age 15 are not allowed to operate Class 2 ATVs.
• Wear protective gear including goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-theankle boots, gloves and a DOT-approved helmet when riding all types of OHVs.
• If an OHV comes with factory installed seatbelts, wear them.
• Avoid riding on paved roads except to cross. Do it safely and ensure it’s permitted by law.
• Actively supervise young riders as OHVs aren’t toys.
