When is the use of a handheld electronic device allowed while driving in Iowa?

The use of handheld electronic devices while driving in Iowa is generally prohibited, except for emergency situations. This law aims to reduce distractions for drivers, thereby enhancing road safety. The rationale behind this regulation is that using handheld devices can significantly impair a driver’s attention and reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

While options suggest specific scenarios under which these devices might be permitted, they do not align with Iowa's overarching restrictions. For example, navigation purposes can be facilitated through hands-free technology, which is encouraged to maintain focus on driving, but using a handheld device for navigation remains a violation of the law. Similarly, being stopped at a light does not exempt a driver from this restriction, as the law specifies that the device should not be in use while behind the wheel, regardless of the vehicle's status. Thus, the law's provision for emergency use underscores the importance of being focused on driving at all other times.