Iowa's New Ban on Texting While Driving
On April 1, 2010, Iowa became the twenty-first state to enact legislation banning texting while driving. Iowa’s new distracted driving law became effective July 1, 2010. During its first year, the new law authorizes law enforcement officials only to issue warnings to drivers caught texting. Starting July 1, 2011, the scheduled fine for violations is $30, with stronger penalties for violations that result in serious injury or death. The new law also prevents Iowa counties and municipalities from enacting any additional penalties for the use of portable electronic devices while driving.
All Drivers
Iowa’s distracted driving law prohibits all drivers from writing, sending, or reading a text message, instant message, or e-mail while driving unless their vehicle is at a complete stop and off the traveled portion of the roadway. The ban on texting while driving does not prohibit drivers from using GPS devices or digital dispatch systems while driving. Drivers may also select or enter a telephone number into a hand-held mobile device or use a voice-operated or hands-free device to write, send, or read text messages while driving. The texting ban does not apply to public safety officials performing official duties, health care professionals in the course of an emergency situation, or any person receiving safety-related information such as traffic, weather, or emergency alerts.
Iowa’s distracted driving law does not authorize law enforcement officials to confiscate portable electronic devices. The ban on texting while driving has secondary enforcement status meaning that law enforcement officials cannot detain drivers simply for texting violations.
Teenage Drivers
The new law places heightened restrictions on teenage drivers with an instruction permit, intermediate driver’s license, or restricted license. These drivers cannot use electronic communication devices, such as cellular phones, or electronic entertainment devices, such as MP3 players, while driving unless their motor vehicle is at a complete stop and off the traveled portion of the roadway. However, teenage drivers may use electronic devices, such as in-dash GPS navigators, which are permanently installed in their vehicle or operated through a device that is permanently installed in their vehicle.
Unlike the ban on texting, the ban on teenage drivers’ use of portable electronic devices carries primary enforcement status, so law enforcement officials can stop and cite a teenage driver simply for the use of portable electronic devices while driving.
Distracted Driving Bill
