Iowa lawmakers are taking steps to address a troubling trend: more drivers are being caught speeding at over 100 miles per hour on highways. A new bill, which has cleared a subcommittee in the Iowa House, proposes significantly increasing fines for drivers who exceed the speed limit by large margins. The goal is to deter reckless driving and improve road safety across the state.

Representative Joshua Meggers, a state trooper with 18 years of experience, is at the forefront of this initiative. Meggers, along with other state troopers, issued more than 1,000 tickets in 2024 to drivers caught going 100 miles per hour or faster. The proposed law would not only increase penalties for these extreme speeders but also send a clear message about the consequences of dangerous driving.

The Rise in High-Speed Driving

Excessive speeding has become a significant issue in Iowa, with more drivers being caught traveling at dangerously high speeds. According to Meggers, the trend is not limited to major highways like Interstate 80. Drivers are also being clocked at triple-digit speeds on rural roads and smaller highways, posing risks to themselves and others.

Meggers shared his own experience of encountering extreme speeders during his career as a state trooper. He recalled one of his earliest cases, where a driver was clocked at a shocking 147 miles per hour on Interstate 80. Stories like these highlight the urgent need for stricter penalties to discourage such behavior.

What the Proposed Bill Would Change

Under the current law, fines for speeding within 20 miles per hour above the posted speed limit remain the same. However, the new bill introduces significant changes for drivers exceeding that range.

If passed, the fine structure would work as follows:

Drivers caught speeding more than 20 miles per hour above the limit would face a fine of $285.

An additional $5 fine would be added for every mile per hour above 20 miles over the speed limit.

For example, a driver going 100 miles per hour in a 55-mile-per-hour zone would face a fine of $410 under the proposed law.

This graduated fine system is designed to penalize the most reckless drivers while maintaining the existing penalties for moderate speeding violations.

Why the Change is Needed

Supporters of the bill argue that increasing fines for extreme speeding is necessary to address the growing number of cases and improve safety on Iowa’s roads. Excessive speed is a leading cause of accidents, and higher penalties could deter drivers from engaging in such risky behavior.

Meggers emphasized that high-speed driving is not just about breaking the law—it’s about endangering lives. Drivers traveling at triple-digit speeds have significantly less reaction time, making it almost impossible to avoid accidents.

“Speeding like this doesn’t just happen on highways,” Meggers explained. “People are in a rush to get home or to work, and they make dangerous decisions that put everyone at risk.”

Broader Implications for Road Safety

The bill is part of a larger effort to improve traffic safety across the state. Law enforcement officials hope that stricter penalties will encourage drivers to think twice before speeding excessively.

While some critics may argue that increasing fines is not enough to solve the problem, the bill has received unanimous support in the subcommittee. Lawmakers believe it’s a step in the right direction and an effective way to send a strong message about the dangers of reckless driving.

What’s Next?

As the bill moves forward, it is expected to spark more discussions among lawmakers, law enforcement officials, and the public. If passed, the new law could set a precedent for other states looking to address similar issues.

In the meantime, Iowa residents are urged to drive responsibly and adhere to speed limits, not just to avoid fines but to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

Conclusion

The proposed bill to increase fines for extreme speeding reflects Iowa’s commitment to road safety. By targeting the most dangerous driving behaviors, lawmakers hope to reduce accidents and save lives. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional driver, this serves as a reminder to slow down and prioritize safety over speed.

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