Assembly Bill 329 proposes significant amendments to the laws governing the operation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), off-highway motorcycles (OHMs), and snowmobiles in Wisconsin. Key changes include expanding the prohibition against careless operation to include reckless and negligent behavior, with potential treble damages for property impairment. The bill also removes the 1,000-foot limitation on operating ATVs and UTVs on bridges, allowing crossings on culverts and railroad rights-of-way, and mandates that these vehicles be equipped with functioning brake lights in addition to headlamps and tail lamps. Furthermore, it establishes a duty for operators involved in accidents to render aid and provide their information to affected parties.

Additionally, the bill broadens the definition of authorized emergency vehicles to include ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles operated by emergency services, and introduces specific definitions for patrol vehicles used in law enforcement and emergency response. It also requires the Department of Transportation to revise its highway maintenance manual to facilitate the approval of ATV routes that connect to businesses. Overall, the bill aims to enhance safety regulations and operational guidelines for off-road vehicles while accommodating emergency operations and improving infrastructure connectivity.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 23.33(1)(ng)1.e, 23.33, 23.33(3)(a), 23.33(4)(d)3.a, 23.33(4)(d)3.b, 23.33(6)(a)