Iowa sets electronic crash reporting and document delivery rules

Drivers involved in certain crashes must submit written reports electronically to the transportation department. This applies when a crash causes injury or death, causes property damage at the stated threshold, or involves a vehicle without financial liability coverage. A driver does not have to submit a report when law enforcement investigates the crash. The report is due within 72 hours after the crash. This division applies starting March 1, 2027, or earlier when the department reports that the relevant phase of its new records system is implemented.

The transportation department may send eligible documents electronically to people who agree to receive them that way. Eligible documents include notices, reminders, and other correspondence, but not notices of a sanction such as a suspension or revocation. Before agreeing, recipients must receive clear information about their rights and how their personal information will be used and protected. They must show they can access messages by the chosen method. The department cannot send sanction notices electronically, but may send an agreed-upon courtesy copy when one is available electronically. The department may use another lawful delivery method if it reasonably believes an electronic message was not received or learns the contact information is no longer valid. This division applies starting December 1, 2028, or earlier when the department reports that its electronic communications system is implemented.

The transportation department and county treasurers maintain vehicle records in statewide and county systems. The records serve the transportation department and county treasurers and cover vehicle registrations, titles, and related information. The statewide system includes registration and title details, vehicle and owner information, and records of debts owed to the state used in registration-renewal checks. County treasurers continue to maintain records held in county systems before this division applies. This division applies starting December 1, 2028, or earlier when the department reports that the relevant phase of its new records system is implemented.

The Mississippi River Parkway Commission reports on the Great River Road’s economic impact on Iowa. The commission sends the report to the Iowa General Assembly and governor. The report is due on or before December 15 each year.