This bill amends Iowa's Code section 321.323A to enhance safety measures for motor vehicle operators approaching stationary or slow-moving authorized emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights. The new language specifies that operators must exercise caution when approaching these vehicles and outlines the required actions, such as changing lanes if safe or reducing speed to a reasonable level if a lane change is not possible. The bill defines "slow-moving" as a vehicle operating at a speed of fifteen miles per hour or less in connection with official job duties.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing penalties for violations of this section, which are classified as simple misdemeanors with a scheduled fine of $135. Enhanced penalties apply if the violation results in bodily injury or death, including fines of $500 and $1,000, respectively. The Department of Transportation is also mandated to suspend the driver's license for varying durations based on the severity of the violation, including 90 days for property damage, 180 days for bodily injury, and one year for death. The bill does not alter the cautionary approach requirements for other types of vehicles, such as towing or utility maintenance vehicles.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321.323A, 321.423