On April 2nd, 2025, Iowa made significant strides for public safety when Governor Kim Reynolds signed a Hands-Free bill into law. While the law previously addressed texting and driving, many found the results disappointing. Starting July 1st, 2025, drivers will only be able to interact with electronic devices through voice-activation mode or a single touch.
Iowans have been celebrating this legal victory, but for many, the celebrations are bittersweet. Some families still carry the grief of a loved one taken too soon by a distracted driver, or the frustration of an injury that never quite healed.
Why Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers Is Thankful
Nicolet Law’s own Attorney Christopher Welch, The Midwest’s Cycling Lawyer™ , is in a similar position. In 2018, he was biking to work when a distracted driver hit him.
“Although this law is seven years too late for me, I hope it prevents Iowans from having to suffer the same fate as I did.”
As a personal injury attorney, he is all too familiar with how common distracted driving is:
“This is legislation that will make roads safer and will save lives. So many of our cases are from distracted drivers and as road users and cyclists ourselves, I am so glad that the hands-free driving bill was signed into law this week.”
How The Hands-Free Bill Reached The “Finish Line”
It took years of advocacy and Iowans raising their voices to build the momentum for the Hands-Free bill. While the previous texting and driving law felt like a step forward, according to Iowa Public Radio, law enforcement groups have stated that cracking down on texting and driving is “nearly impossible.”
While the momentum faltered, it saw another promising start in December 2024, when the End Distracted Driving Coalition formed. The Des Moines Register reports that this coalition drew support from people across industries and walks of life. The momentum reached even more promising heights at the beginning of this year. Governor Reynolds called on lawmakers to pass a Hands-Free bill in her Condition of the State address. After much effort, on March 26th, The House of Representatives reviewed the new legislation, and their 84-11 vote carried the bill to her desk. Iowa is now the 31st state to pass a Hands-Free bill.
Is Anyone Exempt from The Hands-Free Law?
Lawmakers acknowledge that going hands-free is not always possible. Here is a quick look at potential exceptions:
Safety & Emergencies
During an emergency, safety and health can remain top priority. Iowa drivers can report an emergency or receive an emergency report without worrying about legal trouble. Medical professionals and public safety workers in these emergency situations can prioritize providing care over Hands-free compliance.
Professions & Specific Job Duties
Certain professions have leeway when it comes to following the new law. Iowa Public Radio states that the current list includes farm equipment operators, utility workers, public transit system workers, and transportation network company drivers. Exempt job duties can include “using a device to access a fleet management system” as well as “using a two-way radio” while “licensed with the Federal Communications Commission.”
It is important to note that some professions have additional nuance with their exemption. Both public transit system workers and the transportation network company drivers need to be in a vehicle that is not moving. Additionally, the company driver needs to be “engaged in a prearranged ride.”
What Happens If Someone Violates the Hands-Free Law?
A violation alone can lead to a $100 fine. If the violation involved an injury, the respective court may charge the defendant another $500 and suspend their license. If the violation led to a fatality, license suspension may be even more likely, and with the fine doubling to $1000.
Some Closing Words from Attorney Christopher Welch
Christopher Welch is grateful for the new law, but he wants to take the time to caution Iowa drivers too: “You can’t hold your phone when you’re behind the wheel. You need to focus on the road and the vulnerable users who you share the road with. You need to put your phone into “hands free” mode, or use voice activated features. If you do not, you will be fined. And if you do hit someone or another vehicle, it will be used against you in the civil case.”
Contact Midwest Cycling Lawyers™ Today
If you’ve suffered an injury or loss in a cycling accident, Midwest Cycling Lawyers™ is here to help. With a track record of securing fair outcomes for our clients, we focus on ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Our team understands what it takes to hold distracted drivers responsible for the injuries and damage they cause.
Reach out to us today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you obtain maximum compensation for your cycling accident injury.