When traversing the picturesque state of Iowa, one might not immediately think of treacherous roads. However, just like any other place, the state has its share of challenging roadways that require a driver’s utmost attention and caution. Below are some of the most...
For the Injured And For A Safer Iowa
Auto Accidents
Iowa now limits pain and suffering awards in truck accident cases
In May, Governor Kim Reynolds signed new limits into law that protect trucking companies. First, the law shields them from lawsuits claiming they negligently hired a driver who was involved in a crash. Second, the new law limits compensation for the pain and suffering...
The size and weight of vehicles affect everyone’s road safety
Every crash that occurs features unique characteristics. The specific vehicles involved, their speed at the time of the crash and the angle of approach when they collide can all influence the scope of the damage and the injuries incurred by the occupants of the...
Road deaths are dropping worldwide, but not in the US. Why not?
You may have read the stories that traffic fatalities actually rose during the pandemic even though far fewer people were driving. That’s true, and it needs to be addressed. Yet it’s also part of a larger trend. During the 90s, before standard air bags and safer car...
Iowa agencies’ new focus on rural road traffic safety: How to help
Rural roads are just more dangerous. The crash rate on rural roads is twice that on state roads, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT). Unfortunately, despite the many hazards and relative lack of safety equipment on rural and gravel roads, many...
The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer
The Iowa State Patrol issued an urgent plea for motorists to be extra careful over the coming weeks as we are in the midst of the “100 Deadliest Days.” It’s the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal crashes involving teenagers escalate. The Centers for...
Does posting death tolls on highway signs help or hurt safety?
We have all seen the big electronic signs suspended above the highway that display safety messages, such as reminders to buckle up or admonitions against risky behavior like drunk driving or texting while driving. Sometimes these signs display the number of traffic...
How effective are seat belt reminders?
When people get in their cars, they often do a few things without putting much thought into them. They start the ignition, check the mirrors and pick something to listen to. Hopefully, they also put on their seat belt. If this last part doesn't happen, drivers can...
Traffic deaths continue to climb in Iowa
Iowa road fatalities reached a six-year high last year as more drivers subscribe to risky and illegal behavior. According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, a total of 354 people died on state roads in 2021. That represents a 3% increase compared with the...
Research: Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving
A driver is pulled over late on a Des Moines night. He’s been weaving his car back and forth across the lanes. He’s also been struggling to keep his vehicle at the appropriate speed, sometimes slowing way down and sometimes exceeding the speed limit. The driver’s...