Iowa
Iowa Hit and Run Laws: Penalties and What to Do
Iowa classifies leaving the scene of an accident as a crime under Iowa Code Section 321.261 and 321.262, with penalties scaling from a simple misdemeanor for property-damage-only incidents to a Class C felony carrying up to 10 years in prison when a driver knows or has reason to believe the crash caused a death.
Hurt in a hit-and-run? If the driver who hit you fled or had no insurance, your own uninsured/underinsured-motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may pay your injury claim. Estimate what it could be worth with our free Iowa Car Accident Settlement Calculator.
Understanding Iowa Hit and Run Laws
Last verified: March 2026. This guide reflects current Iowa law under Iowa Code Sections 321.261 through 321.266 and Chapter 516A.
Iowa treats leaving the scene of an accident as a criminal offense with penalties that scale based on the severity of harm. The state divides hit and run offenses across two primary statutes. Iowa Code Section 321.261 covers accidents involving death or personal injury. Iowa Code Section 321.262 covers accidents involving only property damage.
Every driver involved in any type of accident in Iowa has a legal duty to stop, provide identifying information, and render reasonable assistance. Failing to meet these obligations can result in criminal charges ranging from a simple misdemeanor to a Class C felony carrying up to 10 years in prison.
What Iowa Law Requires After an Accident
Iowa Code Section 321.263 spells out the duties every driver must fulfill after an accident. These requirements apply regardless of who caused the crash.
Mandatory Steps at the Scene
After any accident in Iowa, you must:
- Stop immediately at the scene or as close to it as safely possible
- Provide your name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, any person struck, or the occupant of the other vehicle
- Show your driver's license upon request, if available
- Render reasonable assistance to anyone injured, including arranging transportation for medical treatment when necessary or requested
- Remain at the scene until you have fulfilled all of the above duties
If the accident results in a death, all surviving drivers must stay at the scene. The only exceptions are leaving to seek emergency aid or to report the accident to law enforcement.
Accident Reporting Requirements
If the accident injured or killed anyone, Iowa Code Section 321.266(1) requires you to notify law enforcement immediately, by the quickest means available: the county sheriff, the nearest state patrol office, or another peace officer near the crash site.
Iowa Code Section 321.266(2) also requires you to file a written accident report with the Iowa Department of Transportation within 72 hours if:
- The accident resulted in injury or death, or
- Total property damage reaches $1,500 or more
You do not need to file this written report if a law enforcement agency investigates the accident. That exemption covers only the written report, not the immediate notice required after an injury or fatal crash. Section 321.266 does not set its own penalty for a driver who fails to report, so under Iowa Code Section 321.482 the violation is generally a simple misdemeanor.
Report forms and instructions are available through the Iowa DOT accident reports page.
Criminal Penalties for Hit and Run in Iowa
Iowa's penalties for leaving the scene increase based on the level of harm caused and whether the driver was aware of the consequences.
Penalty Chart by Offense Level
| Offense | Classification | Maximum Jail/Prison | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Property damage only, attended vehicle (Section 321.262) | Simple Misdemeanor (scheduled violation) | Scheduled violation | $135 scheduled fine |
| Striking an unattended vehicle (Section 321.264) | Simple Misdemeanor (scheduled violation) | Scheduled violation | $135 scheduled fine |
| Personal injury (Section 321.261(2)) | Serious Misdemeanor | 1 year | $2,560 |
| Serious injury (Section 321.261(3)(a)) | Aggravated Misdemeanor | 2 years | $8,540 |
| Serious injury, driver knows or has reason to believe the vehicle caused it (Section 321.261(3)(b)) | Class D Felony | 5 years | $10,245 |
| Death of any person (Section 321.261(4)(a)) | Class D Felony | 5 years | $10,245 |
| Death, driver knows or has reason to believe the vehicle caused it (Section 321.261(4)(b)) | Class C Felony | 10 years | $13,660 |
Property Damage Only Offenses
Under Iowa Code Section 321.262, leaving the scene of an accident that causes only damage to a vehicle driven or attended by a person is a simple misdemeanor punishable as a scheduled violation. Iowa Code Section 805.8A sets the scheduled fine at $135. Drivers are also required to move their vehicle off the traveled portion of the roadway if the vehicle is still operable and can be safely moved to a shoulder, emergency lane, or median.
Misdemeanor Offenses Involving Injury
If you leave the scene of an accident that resulted in personal injury, you face a serious misdemeanor charge under Section 321.261(2). Under Iowa Code Section 903.1, this carries up to one year in jail and a fine of $430 to $2,560.
When the accident caused a serious injury, the charge becomes an aggravated misdemeanor under Section 321.261(3)(a). An aggravated misdemeanor carries up to two years in prison and fines ranging from $855 to $8,540. If the driver knows or has reason to believe the vehicle caused the serious injury, the charge rises to a Class D felony under Section 321.261(3)(b).
What Counts as "Serious Injury" in Iowa
Iowa law defines serious injury as bodily injury that:
- Creates a substantial risk of death
- Causes permanent disfigurement
- Results in protracted loss or impairment of function of any bodily member or organ
This definition, found in Iowa Code Section 702.18, is the dividing line between misdemeanor and felony hit and run charges in many cases.
Felony Offenses
Hit and run becomes a felony when the accident causes:
- Serious injury where the driver knows or has reason to believe the vehicle caused it, under Section 321.261(3)(b) (Class D felony, up to 5 years in prison, fine of $1,025 to $10,245)
- Death of any person, under Section 321.261(4)(a) (Class D felony, up to 5 years in prison, fine of $1,025 to $10,245)
- Death where the driver knows or has reason to believe the vehicle caused it, under Section 321.261(4)(b) (Class C felony, up to 10 years in prison, fine of $1,370 to $13,660)
Felony fine ranges come from Iowa Code Section 902.9. Section 321.261 also directs the Iowa DOT director to revoke the driver's license of anyone convicted under it.
Iowa Code Section 321.261(4)(b) states that a driver who "knows or has reason to believe that the driver's vehicle caused an accident resulting in the death of one or more persons" and fails to stop or comply with the law is guilty of a Class C felony.
Additional Charges for Intoxicated Drivers
When a hit and run driver was also under the influence, Iowa Code Section 707.6A allows separate charges for vehicular homicide or serious injury by vehicle. Vehicular homicide while intoxicated is a Class B felony, carrying up to 25 years in prison. Serious injury by vehicle while intoxicated is a Class D felony. These charges can be filed alongside the hit and run charges, resulting in consecutive sentences.
Insurance Implications of Hit and Run in Iowa
Iowa law addresses hit and run insurance coverage through Iowa Code Chapter 516A, which governs uninsured, underinsured, and hit-and-run motorist coverage.
Mandatory Coverage Options
Every auto liability insurance policy issued in Iowa must include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which extends to hit-and-run accidents. The minimum UM limits match Iowa's liability minimums:
- $20,000 per person for bodily injury
- $40,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $15,000 for property damage
Drivers may reject UM coverage in writing, but those who accept it gain protection if they are injured by a hit-and-run driver.
Physical Contact Requirement
Iowa's hit-and-run motorist coverage under Chapter 516A requires physical contact between the hit-and-run vehicle and the insured person or the vehicle the insured was occupying. This means if a phantom vehicle caused you to swerve and crash without actually touching your car, your hit-and-run coverage may not apply.
Filing an Insurance Claim
Iowa is an at-fault insurance state. After a hit and run, your options include:
- Filing a claim under your UM coverage for bodily injury
- Using your collision coverage for vehicle damage
- Filing a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance if the driver is later identified
Note that UM coverage in Iowa typically does not cover property damage. You would need collision coverage or to identify the at-fault driver to recover vehicle repair costs.
How Fault Works in Iowa Hit and Run Cases
Iowa follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. If you bear some responsibility, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. At 51% or more fault, you cannot recover anything.
To establish fault against the hit-and-run driver, you must prove:
- The other driver owed you a duty of care on the road
- The driver breached that duty through negligent or reckless behavior
- The breach directly caused your injuries or property damage
Gathering evidence quickly is critical in hit and run cases. Photograph the scene, note any witnesses, and check for nearby surveillance cameras.
Statute of Limitations for Hit and Run Claims in Iowa
Iowa Code Section 614.1 sets the filing deadlines for civil claims arising from hit and run accidents:
| Claim Type | Filing Deadline |
|---|---|
| Personal injury | 2 years from the accident date |
| Property damage | 5 years from the accident date |
| Wrongful death | 2 years from the date of death |
These are hard deadlines. Filing even one day late typically means losing your right to pursue the claim in court. An injured victim has two years from the crash, so see an Iowa car accident lawyer for a free claim review and file the injury claim within that window (attorney advertising).
Iowa Crash Statistics
According to Iowa Department of Transportation data:
- 2024 traffic fatalities: 357 deaths (down from 379 in 2023)
- 2023 traffic fatalities: 379 deaths
- Rural vs. urban split (2024): 229 rural fatalities (64%) and 128 urban fatalities (36%)
Iowa continues to see a disproportionate share of fatal crashes on rural roads. Nationally, about 41% of traffic deaths occur in rural areas, while Iowa's rural fatality share exceeds 60%. Hit and run crashes in rural areas can be especially difficult to investigate due to fewer witnesses and less surveillance camera coverage.
Possible Defenses to Hit and Run Charges
Iowa courts recognize several potential defenses to hit and run charges:
- Lack of knowledge: You genuinely did not know an accident occurred. This defense is strongest for minor collisions or situations where road conditions masked the impact.
- Safety concerns: You left the scene because you reasonably feared for your physical safety, such as a hostile crowd or threatening behavior from the other driver.
- Seeking emergency help: You departed the scene to call 911 or get medical assistance for the injured.
- Involuntary departure: You were incapacitated, unconscious, or otherwise physically unable to remain at the scene.
- Identity dispute: Someone else was driving your vehicle at the time of the accident.
Even if you leave the scene for a valid reason, you should report the accident to law enforcement as soon as possible.
What to Do if You Are a Hit and Run Victim in Iowa
If another driver hits you and leaves the scene, take these steps:
- Call 911 immediately. Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
- Document everything. Take photos of the scene, your vehicle damage, and any injuries. Note the time, location, and road conditions.
- Record details about the fleeing vehicle. Write down the make, model, color, license plate (even a partial), and direction of travel.
- Talk to witnesses. Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
- Check for cameras. Nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or doorbell cameras may have captured the incident.
- Contact your insurance company. Report the hit and run promptly to start the claims process. Your UM coverage or collision coverage may apply.
- Do not chase the other driver. Pursuing the fleeing vehicle puts you and others at risk.
More Iowa Laws
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to report a car accident in Iowa?
If the crash injured or killed anyone, you must notify law enforcement immediately. You must also file a written accident report with the Iowa DOT within 72 hours when the accident caused injury, death, or property damage of $1,500 or more, unless a law enforcement agency investigates the accident.
Is leaving the scene of an accident a felony in Iowa?
It depends on the severity. Property-damage-only hit and run is a simple misdemeanor. Hit and run with personal injury is a serious misdemeanor, and with serious injury it is an aggravated misdemeanor. It becomes a Class D felony when the driver knows or has reason to believe the vehicle caused a serious injury, and it is always a felony when the accident causes death (Class D, or Class C if the driver knows or has reason to believe the vehicle caused the death).
What is the statute of limitations for a hit and run claim in Iowa?
Under Iowa Code Section 614.1, you have 2 years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim, 5 years for property damage, and 2 years from the date of death for a wrongful death claim. These deadlines apply to both hit and run cases and other motor vehicle accident cases.
Does my insurance cover me if a hit and run driver is never found?
If you carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, it may cover your bodily injury costs from a hit and run. However, Iowa law requires physical contact between the hit-and-run vehicle and your person or vehicle. UM coverage typically does not cover property damage in Iowa. You would need collision coverage to repair your vehicle if the other driver is not identified.
What should I do if I hit a parked car in Iowa?
Iowa Code Section 321.264 requires you to stop immediately and either locate and notify the owner or operator, or leave a written notice in a conspicuous place in the vehicle giving your name and address, the owner's name and address, and a statement of what happened. If total damage reaches $1,500 or more, the written report rule in Section 321.266 can also apply. Violating Section 321.264 is a simple misdemeanor punishable as a scheduled violation with a $135 scheduled fine.
Updates
Corrected Iowa hit-and-run penalty tiers, statute subsections and fine amounts to match current Iowa Code 321.261, 902.9, 903.1 and 805.8A, and added the immediate law-enforcement notice duty and unattended-vehicle rules.
The Law Behind This Article
This article rests on the statutory provisions below, held in our own legal record and retrieved from the official source. Tap a section to read the operative text.
Iowa Code, Chapter 321: MOTOR VEHICLES AND LAW OF THE ROAD
§ 321.261Death or personal injuries.In force
1. a. The driver of any vehicle who knows or has reason to believe that the driver’s vehicle was involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close as possible and if able, shall then return to and remain at the scene of the accident in accordance with section 321.263. Every such stop shall be made without obstructing traffic more than is necessary. b. If the driver of a vehicle leaves the scene of an accident resulting in injury to or death of a person without knowledge or reason to believe that the driver’s vehicle was involved in the accident, and later discovers that the driver’s vehicle may have been involved in an accident that resulted in injury to or death of a person, the driver shall, as soon as reasonably possible, make a good-faith effort to immediately contact emergency services or make a 911 call and provide the dispatcher with any requested information described in section 321.263 and the location and possible time of the accident. 2.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-09-23 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 22 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State v. Tarbox (Supreme Court of Iowa 2007, 739 N.W.2d 850)“…g him with leaving the scene of an accident in violation of Iowa Code section 321.261 (2003). Tarbox claims because he was in…”
- State Of Iowa Vs. Christopher Jerome Tarbox (Supreme Court of Iowa 2007)“…him with leaving the scene of an accident in violation of Iowa Code section 321.261 (2003). Tarbox claims because he was i…”
- State v. Johnson (Supreme Court of Iowa 2008, 744 N.W.2d 340)“…(c)), failing to stop following a personal injury accident (Iowa Code section 321.261(2)), and leaving the scene of a persona…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 321.262Leaving scene of traffic accident prohibited — vehicle damage only — removal of vehicles.In force
1. a. The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to a vehicle which is driven or attended by any person shall immediately remove the driver’s vehicle from the traveled portion of the roadway if the vehicle is operable and the removal can be achieved in a safe manner. The driver shall remove the vehicle to the shoulder, emergency lane, or median nearest to the scene of the accident such that the vehicle is completely off the traveled portion of the roadway, and shall then stop the vehicle. The driver shall remove the vehicle without obstructing traffic more than is necessary. b. Another person at the scene of the accident may remove a vehicle involved in the accident in accordance with this subsection to reduce the risk of a subsequent accident or to ensure the safety of persons at the scene of the accident. 2. The driver shall remain at the scene of the accident until the driver has fulfilled the requirements of section 321.263.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 1 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2019
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State of Iowa v. Ryan Bradley Tostenson (Court of Appeals of Iowa 2019)“…ring. In its ruling, the court determined that a violation Iowa Code section 321.262 could not justify the traffic stop bec…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 321.263Information and aid — leaving scene of personal injury accident.In forcecited in 2 of our articles
1. The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of a person or damage to a vehicle which is driven or attended by a person shall give the driver’s name, address, and the registration number of the vehicle the driver is driving and shall upon request and if available exhibit the driver’s driver’s license to the person struck, the driver or occupant of, or the person attending the vehicle involved in the accident and shall render to a person injured in the accident reasonable assistance, including the transporting or arranging for the transporting of the person for medical treatment if it is apparent that medical treatment is necessary or if transportation for medical treatment is requested by the injured person. 2. If the accident causes the death of a person, all surviving drivers shall remain at the scene of the accident except to seek necessary aid or to report the accident to law enforcement authorities. Before leaving the scene of the fatal accident, each surviving driver shall leave the surviving driver’s driver’s license, automobile registration receipt, or other identification data at the scene of the accident.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 4 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2008
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State Of Iowa Vs. Christopher Jerome Tarbox (Supreme Court of Iowa 2007)“…edical treatment is requested by the injured person. Iowa Code § 321.263(1). Our resolution of the issue on appe…”
- State v. Johnson (Supreme Court of Iowa 2008, 744 N.W.2d 340)“…1(2)), and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident (Iowa Code section 321.263). On appeal, Johnson raises a single is…”
- State v. Tarbox (Supreme Court of Iowa 2007, 739 N.W.2d 850)“…dical treatment is requested by the injured person. Iowa Code § 321.263 (1). Our resolution of the issue on app…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Iowa Car Accident Laws: Fault, Insurance, and Your Claim
§ 321.266Reporting accidents.In forcecited in 2 of our articles
1. The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person shall immediately by the quickest means of communication give notice of such accident to the sheriff of the county in which said accident occurred, or the nearest office of the state patrol, or to any other peace officer as near as practicable to the place where the accident occurred. 2. The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of any person, or total property damage to an apparent extent of one thousand five hundred dollars or more shall, within seventy-two hours after the accident, forward a written report of the accident to the department. However, such report is not required when the accident is investigated by a law enforcement agency. 3. Every law enforcement officer who, in the regular course of duty, investigates a motor vehicle accident of which report must be made as required in subsections 1 and 2, either at the time of and at the scene of the accident or thereafter by interviewing participants or witnesses shall, within twenty-four hours after completing such investigation, forward a written report of such accident to the department.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 4 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2019
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State of Iowa v. Ryan Bradley Tostenson (Court of Appeals of Iowa 2019)“…s for stopping Tostenson based on a suspected violation of Iowa Code 321.266(2), which requires a driver of a vehicl…”
- Miller v. Boone County Hospital (Supreme Court of Iowa 1986, 394 N.W.2d 776)“…ss of the tort-feasor or any intent to file a claim. Cf. Iowa Code § 321.266 (requiring reporting of car accidents,…”
- State v. Tarbox (Supreme Court of Iowa 2007, 739 N.W.2d 850)“…jury to any person to contact the authorities immediately. Iowa Code § 321.266 . The State had the option of charging…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 321.264Striking unattended vehicle.In force
The driver of any vehicle which collides with any vehicle which is unattended shall immediately stop and shall then and there either locate and notify the operator or owner of such vehicle of the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle striking the unattended vehicle or shall leave in a conspicuous place in the vehicle struck a written notice giving the name and address of the driver and of the owner of the vehicle doing the striking and a statement of the circumstances thereof. A person who violates this section commits a simple misdemeanor punishable as a scheduled violation under section 805.8A, subsection 14, paragraph “n”.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 2 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2007
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State v. Tarbox (Supreme Court of Iowa 2007, 739 N.W.2d 850)“…written note in a conspicuous place on the struck vehicle. Iowa Code § 321.264 . The dichotomy the legislature sets ou…”
- State Of Iowa Vs. Christopher Jerome Tarbox (Supreme Court of Iowa 2007)“…written note in a conspicuous place on the struck vehicle. Iowa Code § 321.264. The dichotomy the legislature sets out…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 321.482Violations — simple misdemeanors unless otherwise provided.In forcecited in 3 of our articles
It is a simple misdemeanor for a person to do an act forbidden or to fail to perform an act required by this chapter unless the violation is by this chapter or other law of this state declared to be a serious or aggravated misdemeanor or a felony. Chapter 232 has no application in the prosecution of offenses committed in violation of this chapter which are simple misdemeanors.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 12 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2021
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Iowa Supreme Court Attorney Disciplinary Board v. Howe (Supreme Court of Iowa 2005, 706 N.W.2d 360)“…d plead guilty to the amended citation. 2 See generally Iowa Code § 321.482 (2005) (stating violations of chapter…”
- State v. Cooley (Supreme Court of Iowa 1998, 587 N.W.2d 752)“…ode section 321.25, a simple misdemeanor. See Iowa Code § 321.482 (violation of any act governed by chap…”
- State v. Hartog (Supreme Court of Iowa 1989, 440 N.W.2d 852)“…provisions of Iowa Code section 321.555. See Iowa Code §§ 321.482 , 321.555(2), 805.-8(2)(c). Befo…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Iowa Windshield Mounting Laws (2026 Guide), Are Radar Detectors Legal? State Laws Explained (2026)
Iowa Code, Chapter 707: HOMICIDE AND RELATED CRIMES
§ 707.6AHomicide or serious injury by vehicle.In force
1. A person commits a class “B” felony when the person unintentionally causes the death of another by operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, as prohibited by section 321J.2. 1A. Upon a plea or verdict of guilty of a violation of subsection 1, the defendant shall surrender to the court any Iowa license or permit and the court shall forward the license or permit to the department with a copy of the order of conviction. Upon receipt of the order of conviction, the department shall revoke the defendant’s driver’s license or nonresident operating privilege for a period of six years. The defendant shall not be eligible for a temporary restricted license for at least two years after the revocation. 1B. Upon a plea or verdict of guilty of a violation of subsection 1, the court shall order the defendant, at the defendant’s expense, to do the following: a. Enroll, attend, and satisfactorily complete a course for drinking drivers, as provided in section 321J.22. b. Submit to evaluation and treatment or rehabilitation services. 1C.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 93 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State of Iowa v. Orlando David Rodriguez (Supreme Court of Iowa 2011, 804 N.W.2d 844)“…omicide by vehicle-OWI, a class “B” felony in violation of Iowa Code section 707.6A(1) (2009); Count II: homicide by vehic…”
- State of Iowa v. Jonathan Q. Adams (Supreme Court of Iowa 2012, 810 N.W.2d 365)“…while intoxicated) caused the death for a conviction under Iowa Code section 707.6A(1) (2007). I also agree with the majori…”
- State v. Dalton (Supreme Court of Iowa 2004, 674 N.W.2d 111)“…the trial information and the minutes of testimony and (2) Iowa Code section 707.6A(2) (2001) as unconstitutionally…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Iowa Code, Chapter 614: LIMITATIONS OF ACTIONS
§ 614.1Period.In forcecited in 17 of our articles
Actions may be brought within the times limited as follows, respectively, after their causes accrue, and not afterwards, except when otherwise specially declared: 1. Penalties or forfeitures under ordinance. Those to enforce the payment of a penalty or forfeiture under an ordinance, within one year. 2. Injuries to person or reputation — relative rights — statute penalty. Those founded on injuries to the person or reputation, including injuries to relative rights, whether based on contract or tort, or for a statute penalty, within two years. 2A. With respect to products. a.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-09-08 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 459 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
In the courts (editorial summary, independently checked):Iowa courts pick the subsection by the nature of the right sued upon. Sandbulte v. Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. (1984) applied the five-year unwritten-contract period of 614.1(4), not the two-year injury period, to an insurer bad-faith claim. Rathje v. Mercy Hospital (2008) read 614.1(9)(a) to run from knowledge of injury and cause.
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Sandbulte v. Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. (Supreme Court of Iowa 1984, 343 N.W.2d 457)✓Insureds sued their carrier for bad faith failure to defend and for failing to advise on adequate coverage; the Iowa Supreme Court held both claims rested on implied contracts, so the five-year period of section 614.1(4) applied, not the two-year period of 614.1(2).
- Miller v. Boone County Hospital (Supreme Court of Iowa 1986, 394 N.W.2d 776)✓A mother sued a county hospital nearly two years after its staff allegedly gave negligent advice about her feverish infant; the Iowa Supreme Court struck the 60-day notice rule of section 613A.5 on equal protection grounds and held chapter 614 supplies the limitation period.
- Hamm v. Allied Mutual Insurance Co. (Supreme Court of Iowa 2000, 612 N.W.2d 775)✓After settling with an underinsured driver, insureds sued their own carrier for underinsured motorist benefits; the Iowa Supreme Court held the policy set no limitation period of its own, so section 614.1(5)'s ten-year contract period ran from the insurer's denial.
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Iowa Dog Bite Laws: Liability and Victim Rights, Iowa Defamation Laws: Libel, Slander & Suing (2026), Motorcycle Accident Laws in Iowa (2026): Deadlines & Helmets
Iowa Code, Chapter 702: DEFINITIONS
§ 702.18Serious injury.In force
1. “Serious injury” means any of the following: a. Disabling mental illness. b. Bodily injury which does any of the following: (1) Creates a substantial risk of death. (2) Causes serious permanent disfigurement. (3) Causes protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ. c. Any injury to a child that requires surgical repair and necessitates the administration of general anesthesia. 2. “Serious injury” includes but is not limited to skull fractures, rib fractures, and metaphyseal fractures of the long bones of children under the age of four years.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 57 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State Of Iowa Vs. Robert L. Hanes (Supreme Court of Iowa 2010, 790 N.W.2d 545)“…ous injury is a defined term in the Iowa Code. According to Iowa Code section 702.18: 1. “Serious injury ” means any of…”
- State of Iowa v. Valentin Velez (Supreme Court of Iowa 2013, 829 N.W.2d 572)“…as prohibited by the willful injury statute and defined by Iowa Code section 702.18. The minutes of testimony of the doctor…”
- State of Iowa v. Justin Michael Stickrod (Court of Appeals of Iowa 2018)“…hat Stickrod caused the child serious injury. According to Iowa Code section 702.18, a “serious injury”' is a bodily injur…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Iowa Code, Chapter 805: CITATIONS IN LIEU OF ARREST
§ 805.8AMotor vehicle and transportation scheduled violations.In forcecited in 6 of our articles
1. Parking violations. a. For parking violations under sections 321.236, 321.239, 321.358, 321.360, and 321.361, the scheduled fine is five dollars, except if the local authority has established the fine by ordinance. The scheduled fine for a parking violation pursuant to section 321.236 increases by five dollars if authorized by ordinance and if the parking violation is not paid within thirty days of the date upon which the violation occurred. For purposes of calculating the unsecured appearance bond required under section 805.6, the scheduled fine shall be five dollars, or if the amount of the fine is greater than five dollars, the unsecured appearance bond shall be the amount of the fine established by the local authority. However, violations charged by a city or county upon simple notice of a fine instead of a uniform citation and complaint required by section 321.236, subsection 1, paragraph “b”, are not scheduled violations, and this section shall not apply to any offense charged in that manner. For a parking violation under section 461A.38, the scheduled fine is ten dollars. For a parking violation under section 321.362, the scheduled fine is twenty dollars. b.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 5 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2024
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- City of Davenport v. Seymour (Supreme Court of Iowa 2008, 755 N.W.2d 533)“…e road established in Iowa Code chapter 321. Id. § 805.6. Iowa Code section 805.8A establishes a schedule of fines for suc…”
- State of Iowa v. Richard Eugene Noll (Court of Appeals of Iowa 2024)“…e arguments. 6 Iowa Code § 805.8A(2)(f), (3)(l) (designating a violation…”
- State of Iowa v. Jasmaine R. Warren (Court of Appeals of Iowa 2020)“…izes her violation was a completed parking infraction. See Iowa Code § 805.8A(1)(a) (classifying parking violations u…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Iowa E-Scooter Laws: Sidewalk, Helmet & Age Rules (2026), Iowa Open Container Law (2026): Rules, THC, Penalties, Iowa Car Seat Laws (2026): Age, Weight & Penalty Rules
Iowa Code, Chapter 902: FELONIES
§ 902.9Maximum sentence for felons.In forcecited in 10 of our articles
1. The maximum sentence for any person convicted of a felony shall be that prescribed by statute or, if not prescribed by statute, if other than a class “A” felony shall be determined as follows: a. Reserved. b. A class “B” felon shall be confined for no more than twenty-five years. c. An habitual offender shall be confined for no more than fifteen years. d. A class “C” felon, not an habitual offender, shall be confined for no more than ten years, and in addition shall be sentenced to a fine of at least one thousand three hundred seventy dollars but not more than thirteen thousand six hundred sixty dollars. e. A class “D” felon, not an habitual offender, shall be confined for no more than five years, and in addition shall be sentenced to a fine of at least one thousand twenty-five dollars but not more than ten thousand two hundred forty-five dollars. 2. The surcharges required by sections 911.1, 911.2A, and 911.5 shall be added to a fine imposed on a class “C” or class “D” felon, as provided by those sections, and are not a part of or subject to the maximums set in this section.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 166 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- State of Iowa v. Andre Letroy Antwan Harrington (Supreme Court of Iowa 2017)“…a sentence of incarceration greater than one year. See Iowa Code § 902.9(1)(a)–(e). Thus, any immigrati…”
- State v. Ayers (Supreme Court of Iowa 1999, 590 N.W.2d 25)“…imposed a $500 fine for each conviction. See Iowa Code §§ 902.9 (3), 903.1(2). Ayers appeals onl…”
- State v. Iowa District Court for Black Hawk County (Supreme Court of Iowa 2000, 616 N.W.2d 575)“…of incarceration not to exceed ten years. See Iowa Code § 902.9 (setting forth a maximum sentence of t…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Iowa Audio Recording Laws: One-Party Consent Rules and Penalties (2026), Iowa Video Recording Laws: Where You Can and Cannot Film (2026), Iowa GPS Tracking Laws: Is It Legal to Put a Tracker on a Car? (2026)
Iowa Code, Chapter 903: MISDEMEANORS
§ 903.1Maximum sentence for misdemeanants.In forcecited in 8 of our articles
1. If a person eighteen years of age or older is convicted of a simple or serious misdemeanor and a specific penalty is not provided for or if a person under eighteen years of age has been waived to adult court pursuant to section 232.45 on a felony charge and is subsequently convicted of a simple, serious, or aggravated misdemeanor, the court shall determine the sentence, and shall fix the period of confinement or the amount of fine, which fine shall not be suspended by the court, within the following limits: a. For a simple misdemeanor, there shall be a fine of at least one hundred five dollars but not to exceed eight hundred fifty-five dollars. The court may order imprisonment not to exceed thirty days in lieu of a fine or in addition to a fine. b. For a serious misdemeanor, there shall be a fine of at least four hundred thirty dollars but not to exceed two thousand five hundred sixty dollars. In addition, the court may also order imprisonment not to exceed one year. 2. When a person is convicted of an aggravated misdemeanor, and a specific penalty is not provided for, the maximum penalty shall be imprisonment not to exceed two years.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at legis.iowa.gov
Cited in 148 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Nicole Lara Shumate v. Drake University A/K/A Drake University Law School (Supreme Court of Iowa 2014, 846 N.W.2d 503)“…carceration, a fine of $625, and a criminal record. See Iowa Code § 903.1(1)(a). The legislature could reaso…”
- State v. Ayers (Supreme Court of Iowa 1999, 590 N.W.2d 25)“…ggravated misdemeanors, the general sentencing provision is Iowa Code section 903.1(2), which provides: When a perso…”
- State v. Kirchoff (Supreme Court of Iowa 1990, 452 N.W.2d 801)“…Kirchoff. See Iowa Code ch. 901 (sentencing procedures); Iowa Code §§ 903.1 (maximum sentence for misdemeanants),…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Iowa Voyeurism and Hidden Camera Laws: Iowa Code 709.21 Penalties (2026), Iowa Surveillance Camera Laws (2026 Guide), Iowa Recording Laws (2026): One-Party Consent Rules
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This article also draws on these acts and chapters (opening at their first section): Iowa Code, Chapter 516A: UNINSURED, UNDERINSURED, OR HIT-AND-RUN MOTORISTS § 516A.1 (Coverage included in every liability policy — rejection by insured.)
Related law for further reading — not part of this article’s citations.
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Sources and References
- Iowa Code Section 321.261: Death or personal injuries(legis.iowa.gov).gov
- Iowa Code Section 321.262: Leaving scene of traffic accident prohibited(legis.iowa.gov).gov
- Iowa Code Section 321.263: Information and aid(legis.iowa.gov).gov
- Iowa Code Section 321.266: Reporting accidents(legis.iowa.gov).gov
- Iowa Code Chapter 516A: Uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run motorists(legis.iowa.gov).gov
- Iowa Code Section 707.6A: Homicide or serious injury by vehicle(legis.iowa.gov).gov
- Iowa Code Section 614.1: Statute of limitations(legis.iowa.gov).gov
- Iowa DOT: Accident Reports(iowadot.gov).gov
- Iowa DOT: DMV Statistics and Research(iowadot.gov).gov
- IIHS: Fatality Facts - State by State(iihs.org)
- Iowa Code Section 321.264: Striking unattended vehicle(legis.iowa.gov)
- Iowa Code Section 805.8A: Scheduled fines for motor vehicle violations(legis.iowa.gov)
- Iowa Code Section 903.1: Maximum sentence for misdemeanants(legis.iowa.gov)
- Iowa Code Section 902.9: Maximum sentence for felons(legis.iowa.gov)
- Iowa Code Section 321.482: Violations are simple misdemeanors unless otherwise provided(legis.iowa.gov)
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