Spencer, Iowa (NorthwestIowaNow.com) — April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and Iowa State Trooper Kevin Krull visited KICD to talk why NOW is a good time to raise awareness.
The Hands-Free Law officially took effect July 1, 2025, but law enforcement used the first 6 months simply to give warnings and get used to leaving your phone off but actual citations are written. But as of , 2026, they have been writing tickets for having an electronic device in your hands, and the numbers are staggering. Krull says they have already issued over 3,000 citations violating the hands-free law.
If you need to send a text, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Designate your passenger to respond to calls or messages, and leave the app scrolling to sitting at home. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends putting the cell phone in your trunk or glove box until you arrive at your destination.
Increased enforcement should be expected around the area this week, and Krull says officers are specifically looking for cell phones in hand this week to build more awareness.
