State Trooper discusses Iowa’s 100 year low for vehicle fatalities

Today on Just Talk I spoke with Iowa State Trooper Joe Donahue.

The main topic we spoke about was the hands free law that is now being enforced across the state. He explained that while it is being enforced now, it was passed back in July of 2025. From just the warnings that officers gave during the grace period, a noticeable decrease in traffic fatalities was reported in Iowa.

That’s right, Iowa is at the lowest point in traffic deaths in 100 years. While this decrease cannot solely be claimed by the hands free law passing, there is absolutely a correlation. Donahue stated that it’s amazing to see such low numbers, and that education on the law will continue to be pushed.

To continue the trend of fewer driving deaths, enforcement is being done for those who break the hands free law. So make sure to stay off your phone and pay attention to the road, as it’s not just troopers that will write citations, but every officer as well.

For the full interview, click here.