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Keeping Control and Slowing Down

Iowa Code § 321.288 — the vehicle under control at all times, and a reasonable speed near people and hazards

A driver keeps the vehicle under control at all times, and slows to a reasonable and proper rate when:

  • Passing a person walking on the traveled highway, or an animal being led, ridden or driven.
  • Crossing an intersection, or taking a sharp turn, curve or steep descent.
  • Passing an emergency warning device, an emergency vehicle with flashing lights, or a slow moving vehicle with its reflective emblem.
  • Passing through a road work zone.
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A vehicle is driven on the right half of a roadway of sufficient width, outside passing and the listed exceptions, and a vehicle going slower than traffic keeps to the right lane.

  • Iowa Code § 321.297
Sources for this section (2)
  1. Iowa Code § 321.288 — Control of vehicle — reduced speed
  2. Iowa Code § 321.297 — Driving on right-hand side of roadway — exceptions

Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Iowa attorney.

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