This bill amends Section 321.307 of the Iowa Code to establish specific minimum following distances that a person operating a motor vehicle must maintain while following another vehicle in the same lane and direction of travel under clear conditions. The new legal language specifies that the minimum distances are as follows: at least 50 feet for highways with a speed limit of 35 MPH or less, 100 feet for speed limits greater than 35 MPH but not more than 55 MPH, 150 feet for speed limits greater than 55 MPH but not more than 65 MPH, and 200 feet for speed limits greater than 65 MPH.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that a violation of these following distance requirements constitutes a simple misdemeanor, punishable as a scheduled violation under existing law. While the scheduled fine for following too closely remains at $135, the bill introduces potential additional penalties for violations that result in serious injury or death, including fines of $500 and $1,000 respectively, and possible suspension of the driver's license for specified durations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321.307