Distracted driving has become a growing concern on Iowa’s roads over the past two decades. According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, approximately 120 people have died in crashes related to distracted driving since 2001, and over 9,000 have been injured.
These alarming statistics highlight the increasing danger posed by drivers who are not fully focused on the road. As technology has advanced and smartphone use has become all-consuming for many, the risks associated with distracted driving have escalated dramatically.
So many distractions
While most people automatically link distracted driving to cellphone use, the reality is far more complex. Although talking, texting and emailing on phones while driving has indeed increased over the past 20 years, it’s not the only cause of distraction behind the wheel.
According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study, common distractions include:
- Talking to passengers
- Adjusting the car radio
- Eating or drinking
- Interacting with children in the back seat
- Making or accepting phone calls
- Using a navigation system
- Reading or sending text messages or emails
- Taking pictures with phones
Iowa currently bans texting while driving. However, attempts to pass broader legislation making all handheld cellphone use illegal have failed in recent years.
Is a hands-free driving bill the answer?
The Iowa State Patrol and Department of Transportation believe it’s an essential step. Both agencies have pushed for hands-free driving legislation. A proposed bill would make it illegal to use handheld cellphones and other devices while driving but would allow hands-free technology.
Despite bipartisan support, the bill failed during the last two legislative sessions. In 2023, it passed the Senate but stalled in the House. In 2024, lawmakers combined the bill with another ban on traffic enforcement cameras, which ultimately led to its failure.
The main opposition comes from a libertarian wing of Republicans in the House who argue the legislation infringes on individual rights. However, the bill now has support from Gov. Kim Reynolds, who urged lawmakers to approve it during her recent Condition of the State address. She emphasized the importance of keeping drivers’ eyes on the road and away from their phones for the safety of all Iowans.