Iowa law enforcement set to crack down on texting and driving

Distracted driving deaths rose year-over-year in Iowa.

By the numbers: In 2022, distracted and inattentive drivers caused accidents that resulted in 20 deaths across the state, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

• There were 11 such deaths in 2021.

The big picture: During the pandemic, riskier driving behaviors increased, such as speeding, despite fewer cars on the road.

• April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Iowa Department of Public Safety is increasing law enforcement presence next week to cite drivers who are texting.

State of play: State legislation totally banning the use of handheld devices while driving is gaining momentum this session, the Gazette reports.

• Because only texting and driving is illegal, Iowa motorists are still allowed to use their phones for other reasons, such as using the GPS or making phone calls.

Zoom in: Last year, a cyclist in Floyd County was killed by a driver who was looking down at his phone for nearly 10 seconds.

• Though he admitted to using his phone — there was no criminal conviction, the Charles City Press reports.