Let’s be honest. Isn’t it refreshing to drive without the distractions of modern life in your vehicle? No calls or urgent notifications, no map app telling you to turn. Just belted in and focused on the road ahead. Not a worry in the world…only a steering wheel in your hands.
If it sounds like a Zac Brown Band song, then life is good today. But life can get tough when you’re trying to operate a vehicle through interruptions. Driving distracted is one of the most dangerous things we can do and the data clearly shows it – claiming at least 10 lives in Iowa in 2024 alone.
Driving without distractions is safer and easier for our brains to process. Focusing solely on the road and the task of driving improves reaction time, decision-making, and overall vehicle control. You can create a safer experience with:
- Improved reaction time: When focused on driving, your brain can better process information and react more quickly. Remove distractions and you can see vehicles, pedestrians, motorcycles, and bicyclists more quickly.
- Better decisions: Without distractions, you can make more informed decisions about speed, lane changes, and other driving maneuvers.
- Enhanced vehicle control: You'll be more aware of your vehicle's position and surroundings, allowing for smoother steering and faster braking.
- Reduced crash risk: Eliminating distractions leads to better concentration and significantly lowers your chances of being involved in a crash.
Iowa is serious about eliminating distracted driving with the new hands-free law which goes into effect July 1, 2025.
In 2025, in Iowa, 119 people have been killed in traffic crashes. That’s an increase of seven since last Friday. In Iowa in 2024, there were 356 traffic-related deaths. To see statistics published daily by the Office of Driver Services, visit the daily fatality report.