Wisconsin DNR Proposes First Open-Container Ban for ATVs and UTVs: Alcohol Involved in 43 Percent of Fatal Crashes, 42 Deaths So Far in 2026
Wisconsin — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources proposed on October 30 a first-ever ban on possessing or using open containers of alcohol or other intoxicants while operating an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle on public roads, trails and frozen waterways, aiming to reduce alcohol-related deaths and injuries.
The proposal also revises window tint requirements and requires operators to use hand or turn signals.
At an October 29 public hearing, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator Jack Holsclaw said the department hopes the new rules will improve off-highway vehicle safety. Data show alcohol was involved in 43 percent of fatal ATV crashes statewide from 2021 through 2025, and 42 people have died in ATV crashes statewide so far in 2026.
Rules effective in June 2026 already require operators and passengers to wear seat belts and eye protection; this proposal continues that round of safety regulation.
The Wisconsin County Highway Association and the Wisconsin ATV Association both support the changes. The proposal will take effect after completing the rulemaking process.
Source: GSM America
Source: GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：Madison August 2022 037 (Wisconsin State Capitol)。来源：Wikimedia Commons（Michael Barera，CC BY-SA 4.0）
