AMES, Iowa – June 11, 2011 – When Henry Ford experimented with the mass produced,
gasoline-powered motor car in 1913, the Model T was the pinnacle of technology at
the time. By 1927, 15 million Model Ts had been manufactured. 

From the hand crank to start a Model T to today’s electric remote starters, our
world has developed a dependence on the motor vehicle. But, the task of driving has
become so common that many drivers do not realize the risks they take behind the
wheel.

Traffic laws have changed to keep up with the technological advances. Most recently,
the Iowa General Assembly passed legislation limiting the use of cell phones and
other handheld devices and updating the requirements for seat belt use for
passengers ages 18 and younger. 

Since July 1, 2010, law enforcement has been issuing warnings related to these new
laws. As of July 1, 2011, tickets will be issued. 

Basic elements of Iowa’s updated motor vehicle laws related to distractions are as
follows.

Restrictions for drivers under age 18 who hold less than a full license
·         Use of any electronic communication or electronic entertainment device
(e.g., cell phone, iPod, Blackberry, computer, etc.) while driving is prohibited.

Restrictions for drivers over age 18
·         Use of any electronic communication device (e.g., cell phone, Blackberry,
etc.) to write, send or read a text message while driving is prohibited unless the
vehicle is at a complete stop off the traveled portion of the roadway.

Seat belt use
·         All passengers age 18 and under are required to be restrained in a vehicle
safety belt, car seat or booster seat, depending on the age of the child. 

To find out more about Iowa’s updated laws related to distractions such as mobile
phones and the changes to the mandatory seat belt law, log on to
http://www.iowadot.gov/CurbItClickIt/index.html.