Stiffer Penalties Sought for Impaired or Drunk Drivers

Last year over 400 people were killed in Iowa traffic accidents and public safety officials believe distracted and impaired driving contributed to the problem.  As the number of traffic fatalities rise year over year,  proposed legislation includes more severe consequences to deter texting-while-driving and drunk driving.

Those arrested for or convicted of an Iowa DUI, may be subject to a twice daily sobriety check if proposed legislation succeeds. The legislation also would require participants in the sobriety monitoring program to install ignition interlock devices in their vehicles to stop drivers from starting their cars when impaired. Both monitoring and ignition interlock devices will be paid for by Iowa DUI defendants in addition to other penalties and fines.

As for texting while driving – a significant source of distracted driving in Iowa – proposed legislation would make it a primary offense. This will empower law enforcement to cite drivers as they observe individuals texting while operating their vehicle.  In the event a driver causes a fatality while using a device such as a cellphone, they could face a felony charge under the proposed law that carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
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The rising number of fatalities in the state due to distracted and drunk driving is troubling. Unfortunately, too many Iowa families have suffered the consequences of a poor choice on the part of a negligent driver. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Iowa car or truck accident, contact our Des Moines, Iowa car accident injury lawyers at Hemminger Law Firm for help. For over 30 years, our personal injury lawyers have assisted injured Iowans and their families get the compensation they need following an injury accident. Call today 515-283-2116.