Green Bay, WI – A tragic accident near Door County claimed the life of Brett Buhr, 13, after his snowmobile collided with a truck while crossing a rural road. The fatal crash, reported by the Accident Data Center, has once again drawn attention to Wisconsin’s snowmobile safety laws and youth training requirements.
According to national data, about 200 snowmobile-related deaths occur across the U.S. each year, most linked to speed, inexperience, or low visibility. Wisconsin officials are reminding riders that safety preparation and certification are key to avoiding preventable tragedies this winter.
Wisconsin features one of the nation’s largest snowmobile trail networks, boasting over 25,000 miles of groomed routes maintained by local clubs and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). All sleds must be registered and display a valid trail pass, even for nonresident riders.
Trail passes cost $10 to $30 annually for residents and $50 per sled for nonresidents. Registration fees are $30 for three years, and sleds must display both decals visibly. Riders who fail to present proof of registration or a trail pass can face fines of up to $250.
No one under the age of 12 may operate a snowmobile unless accompanied on the same machine by a parent or guardian. Riders aged 12 and older must complete an approved Wisconsin Snowmobile Safety Course and carry their certificate while operating. The state also honors safety certificates from other U.S. states and Canadian provinces.
While helmets are not legally mandated for adults, the DNR strongly recommends their use for all riders. Alcohol-related offenses carry the same penalties as operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.
Officials remind riders to slow down near road crossings, stay on marked trails, and check local grooming updates. “Every year, we lose riders to preventable mistakes,” said a DNR officer. “Training saves lives.”
For registration, safety certification, and trail maps, visit dnr.wi.gov/topic/snowmobile.
