Drive safe. Tow safe. Boat safe.

WisDOT, DNR partner to encourage safe roads and waters this summer 

As many Wisconsinites are expected to travel for Memorial Day weekend, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are teaming up to encourage safe driving, towing and boating over the long weekend and throughout summer.  

“Wisconsin roads welcome travelers to explore the beauty in every corner of our state and connect outdoor enthusiasts to our lakes and rivers, creating unforgettable memories and adventures throughout the summer,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “Heading into this busy travel season, we are partnering with the DNR to remind drivers and passengers that, whether traveling by road or enjoying time on the water, we all have a responsibility to keep ourselves and those around us safe.” 

The public should expect and plan for heavy traffic on highways throughout the state, with many drivers towing boats. WisDOT and the DNR encourage all travelers and outdoor enthusiasts to ensure they’re safely and respectfully sharing the state’s roads, launches and waters with others.   

“A safe day on the boat starts and ends with a safe trip to and from the launch, so we are thrilled to be partnering with WisDOT to encourage safety at every step of the way this summer,” said DNR Secretary Karen Hyun. “With over 15,000 lakes, Wisconsin offers some of the best and most varied boating opportunities in the country. As we welcome another boating season, it’s important we remember that these wonderful natural resources belong to all of us. Whether you’re towing on the highway, putting in at the launch or cruising across your favorite water, be safe, be aware of your surroundings and be courteous to other users.” 

Drive safe 

Distracted driving and speed are top factors in summer crashes, contributing to more than 8,500 crashes on Wisconsin roads from May through September last year. 

The faster you drive, the longer it takes to stop and the harder it is to maintain control of your vehicle. Driving too fast can be especially dangerous when towing. Motorists are reminded to follow speed limits and adjust for conditions such as inclement weather and work zones. Most road construction pauses over the holiday weekend, but you can prepare for your trip by checking traffic conditions on your route with 511.wi.gov. 

According to preliminary data, there were 66% more distracted driving fatalities last summer compared to the rest of the year. Cell phone use is a major cause of distraction, but anything that takes your eyes off the road puts yourself and others at risk. Always stay alert behind the wheel.  

Summer is often a time for celebrations and also when we see an increase in impaired driving fatalities. Over the past five years, there were 38% more impaired driving fatalities during the summer months compared to the rest of the year. Impairment decreases a person’s ability to safely drive a vehicle or boat. Plan ahead for a sober driver and make responsible choices to prevent crashes.   

Tow safe  

Drivers hauling a boat, trailer or camper should make sure everything is in good mechanical condition and safely secured before heading out on the roads. 

“Even if you are a seasoned traveler and have towed a trailer for years, going through a safety checklist every time before hitting the road is still critical at every experience level to keep our roads safe,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. 

Be sure to check over your vehicle, trailer and towing connection including the lights, chains and tires to ensure a safe trip. Drivers should also double-check that any items loaded into a trailer, truck bed or boat are properly secured. Debris on the road can lead to crashes and damage to other vehicles. All items must be securely fastened with rope, netting or straps, or covered with a tarp. Be sure the vehicle is not overloaded and items will not shift while traveling.  

Boat safe  

Wisconsin’s waterways and boat launches are popular shared public resources, especially during the busy summer boating season. The DNR asks all boaters and waterway users to make safety their highest priority this season and be respectful of others on the water and at the launch.   

DNR Chief Conservation Warden Casey Krueger says safety is an important part of enjoying Wisconsin’s waters and emphasizes there are simple ways boaters can keep themselves and others out of harm’s way, such as:   

·       Sign up now to take an online boater education course.

·       Always wear a properly fitted and fastened life jacket when on or near the water. A life jacket will keep you on top of the water if you walk off an unexpected drop-off, a wave or current overpower you or you fall out of a boat.

·       Enjoy the waters sober and know your limits. Just like with a car, alcohol blurs a person’s judgment, slows reaction time and impairs abilities.

·       River shorelines and sandbars pose unseen dangers. Higher, fast-moving water can tax an individual’s boating, paddling and swimming skills.

·       Keep an eye on the weather and always tell someone where you are going.

·       Create a float plan and tell people when and where you plan to depart and return before going for a float or paddle.

A majority of the 2025 boating-related fatalities in Wisconsin involved a victim who was not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD). Additionally, alcohol consumption continues to be a contributing factor in many incidents.  

The DNR reminds boaters to check the required on-board safety equipment is functioning before leaving the dock. Once on the water, remain alert to other vessels while obeying all water navigation rules. This includes maintaining safe distances from others and from shore and being mindful of the wake your boat creates.  

“It’s everyone’s job to help keep each other safe on the water,” said Krueger. “Be prepared. Be respectful. Boat safe.” 

When the day is done, boaters should remember to inspect boats and boat trailers, remove aquatic hitchhikers and drain all water before leaving the boat launch to prevent the spread of invasive species. Doing so doesn’t just protect our state’s waters – it’s state law.  

Learn more about boating safety on the DNR’s Boating Safety Webpage.