Let’s make sure a drop in fatal crashes isn’t a fluke

The last time Iowa had fewer than 300 traffic fatalities, the most popular car was the Ford Model T, and the Iowa Legislature was seeking funding to build paved roads.

In 1925, Iowa recorded 261 fatalities. As of Dec. 31, 2025, 260 deaths on Iowa roads had been recorded.

It’s a remarkable milestone, considering 357 Iowans died in crashes in 2024.

So, what gives? The Iowa State Patrol credits the state’s hands-free driving law that took effect July 1 for curtailing crashes. Phones and other devices cannot be used while driving unless in hands-free mode.

Law enforcement gave out warnings between July and the end of 2025. But as of Jan. 1, drivers face a $100 fine for a violation that could lead to a possible license suspension. If the violation results in death or injury, the fines and penalties increase.

“There has been a huge reduction in fatalities over the last five and a half, six months of the year. So, we know that there’s a direct correlation between that hands-free law being enacted and safer roads,” Sgt. Alex Dinkla, the public information officer for the Iowa State Patrol, told The Gazette’s Emily Andersen.

The state also passed a 2022 law banning the use of ATVs and UTVs on roadways. That, Dinkla said, has also helped cut fatalities among operators of those vehicles.

We pushed for adoption of the hands-free law, and we’re glad it may be contributing to a sharp drop in fatalities. But there are other factors.

New safety technology installed in cars, including automatic emergency braking, has likely helped prevent fatalities. Road design has improved safety. Accident victims receive high-quality medical care.

Behavioral changes, as we’ve seen with Iowa’s hands-free law, are significant factors. Very few people drive without seat belts. Strict drunk driving laws have pushed many Iowans to think twice before drinking and getting behind the wheel. Better to call a ride share.

So, basically, it’s up to all of us who hit the highways, rural roads and city streets to make sure this historic drop in fatalities isn’t a fluke. We’ve all seen the horrific consequences of texting while driving. So put down the phone and concentrate on the road ahead.

(319) 398-8262; editorial@thegazette.com