December 9, 2024 – The End Distracted Driving Iowa Coalition has launched a statewide campaign to advocate for a full hands-free driving law in Iowa. Supported by more than 25 organizations representing law enforcement, healthcare, labor, business, transportation, insurance, and state agencies, the coalition aims to make Iowa’s roads safer with the passage of legislation preventing drivers from using their phones while driving. Iowa’s current distracted driving law only prohibits texting while driving, but there have been efforts to strengthen the law and make it more comprehensive.

Coalition officials say Iowa urgently needs a hands-free driving law: Over the past decade, distracted driving crashes have increased by 43%, according to Iowa DOT’s crash data. Similar laws in states like Michigan, Ohio, Alabama, and Minnesota have proven effective, reducing crash rates significantly. For example, Michigan saw a 10.2% drop, while Minnesota experienced over a 30% reduction in crashes (CMT US Road Safety Report 2024).

The Coalitions says in Iowa, even a 10% reduction in distracted driving would prevent 1,000 crashes, 700 injuries, and six fatalities annually according to the CMT US Road Safety Report 2024. The Coalition is encouraging the legislature to take action. Iowans – they say – are frequently using their devices while driving—96% of residents report regularly seeing others driving with a cellphone in hand, according to the Governor’s Safety Traffic Bureau’s annual State Fair survey. The same survey found 85% of Iowans support a hands-free driving law. It’s time for Iowa to join 30 other states in adopting this crucial safety measure.

About the End Distracted Driving Iowa Coalition

The End Distracted Driving Iowa Coalition is a statewide group comprised of 25 organizations, including representatives from the business, law enforcement, healthcare, labor, transportation, and insurance sectors. The coalition’s mission is to reduce distracted driving by advocating for a comprehensive hands-free driving law in Iowa. By uniting diverse voices, the coalition aims to raise awareness, promote safer roads, and pass this critical legislation during the 2025 Iowa legislative session.