Minnesota’s Deadliest Year for ATV Riders: What You Need to Know

ATV (All-terrain vehicle) and OHM (Off-highway motorcycle) riding is a favorite pastime for many Minnesotans, offering an exciting way to explore the state’s trails, forests, and countryside.

However, the latest numbers from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources from 2024 reveal some concerning trends about safety on these vehicles.

READ MORE: Minnesota Shopping Center Now #1 In Midwest For Holiday Shopping

Get our free mobile app

Fewer Accidents, More Fatalities

With fewer accidents overall, you might assume it’s been a safer year for riders. But, surprisingly, the number of fatalities paints a very different picture—and it’s one that will leave you wondering what’s behind these changes.

In 2023, Minnesota recorded 15 fatalities across 312 total accidents. Fast-forward to 2024, and fatalities skyrocketed to 30, even though the number of accidents dropped to 253. That’s a 100% increase in deadly crashes—a sharp contrast to the declining numbers of personal injuries and property damage incidents.

What’s Behind Minnesota's Alarming Numbers?

What’s behind these numbers? Alcohol use, speeding, and lack of helmets continue to be significant factors. In 2024, several crashes involved riders making dangerous decisions, like driving without safety equipment or under the influence. Additionally, the age range of victims widened, with fatalities ranging from an 11-year-old passenger to riders in their 80s.

Roadway Crashes Are the Deadliest

Roadway incidents were once again a leading cause of fatal accidents, but the types of crashes varied. Rollovers, collisions with fixed objects like trees or signs, and even ATV/vehicle collisions contributed to the grim statistics. One particularly tragic case involved a 15-year-old driver and an 11-year-old passenger who failed to stop at a sign and collided with a vehicle’s trailer, resulting in both of their deaths.

St. Louis County Leads in ATV Fatalities

In 2024, St. Louis County recorded the highest number of ATV/OHM fatalities in Minnesota, with a total of four deaths. These incidents occurred on July 15, July 27, August 9, and September 15.

While 2024 had fewer injuries and overall accidents, the stark increase in fatalities is a call to action for all Minnesotans. Whether you’re riding for fun or using an ATV for work, safety precautions like wearing helmets, avoiding alcohol, and driving responsibly are critical to preventing these tragedies.