A coalition of over 25 Iowa organizations has come together to launch the “End Distracted Driving Iowa” campaign with the aim of reducing distracted driving by pushing for a comprehensive hands-free driving law in the state. The campaign comes in response to a 43% increase in distracted driving crashes over the past decade in Iowa. Advocates believe that even a 10% reduction in distracted driving could prevent 1,000 crashes, 700 injuries, and six fatalities annually. Currently, Iowa only prohibits texting while driving but still allows cell phone use for calling and GPS purposes.
Supporters of the campaign include the Iowa State Patrol, Department of Transportation, Iowa Bicycle Coalition, and A.B.A.T.E. of Iowa, among others. They believe that enacting a hands-free law is essential in saving lives and promoting traffic safety in the state. The campaign has gained momentum following the positive impact of hands-free laws in other states, such as Minnesota, where crashes reduced by 30% after the law was implemented in 2019. The coalition is urging lawmakers to prioritize safety and stand with law enforcement on this issue as the 2025 Iowa legislative session approaches.
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