Iowa Increases Fines for Speeding

Almost every driver has either driven over the maximum speed limit or has been a passenger in a car when another driver was speeding. One of the biggest reasons motorists speed is to make sure they get to their destinations on time. When running late, speeding seems logical in order to arrive at that appointment on time, but what most drivers do not understand is that they are putting themselves at risk as well as other drivers around them.

Speeding reduces the amount of time a car has to slow down in order to avoid an Iowa car crash. Speeding also increases a driver's chance of getting into an accident, and it could make the wreck more severe and cause more serious injuries. According to research by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the energy released in a wreck doubles when the speed is increased from 40 mph to 60 mph.

Driving over the posted speed limit is the reason many auto accidents occur. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that speeding was associated with 31% of all fatal crashes nationwide in 2008, and it contributed to 11,000 fatalities.

Because Iowa lawmakers, police and other officials want to see the accident rate decrease, they have recently increased the fines for exceeding the posted speed limit. The new fines went into effect July 1, 2010 for the state of Iowa. The speeding fines on streets marked 55mph or below have increased to the following:

  • One to five miles over is increased from $10.00 to $20.00
  • Six to ten miles over is increased from $20.00 to $40.00
  • Eleven to fifteen miles over is increased from $30.00 to $80.00

Iowa officials have also increased the use of radar cameras to catch speeders and red-light runners. Research shows that crashes decline in cities where speed photo radar has been used. Iowa lawmakers believe the use of cameras coupled with the increased fines will help slow motorists down and make them realize the severity of speeding.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car crash in Cedar Rapids, contact an experienced Iowa personal injury attorney. You will need someone in your corner to look out for your needs. Call the accident attorneys at Brady Preston Gronlund at (319) 866-9277.