The legal validity of radar detectors is something you must be aware of, especially if you are planning to use such devices. However, it’s worth noting that radar detectors are legal everywhere.
The U.S., however, has 48 states that have made it perfectly legal for several vehicles to use these. Are radar detectors legal in Iowa, then?
In the state of Iowa, you are legally permitted to use radar detectors. Using these devices can help you detect nearby radar guns that police officers utilize along with the radar signals they emit.
By being aware of these signals, you can maintain a proper speed and get away from speeding tickets, all without violating any law. You cannot, however, get away with unchecked usage of such devices. There are some restrictions here that you should know about which we’ll discuss in this article.
Radar Detector Mounting Point
In Iowa, there can be some confusion about whether or not you can mount your radar detector on your windshield. In most cases, you cannot place any kind of gadget or sticker on your windshield that might end up blocking your view of the road.
However, you can mount your paraphernalia in a way that does not distract you or get in your way. With that in mind, the base of your windshield or your dashboard is more suitable.
Privately Owned vs Commercially Owned Vehicles
There are variations in the usage of radar detectors even when it comes to private and commercial vehicles. Private vehicles, like personal cars, are free to install radar detectors as long as they use them properly and without any obstructions.
However, when it comes to commercial vehicles, those that weigh beyond 10,000 lbs are not permitted to install such radar detectors. These include buses or trucks that are meant to carry passengers or payloads.
Driving in a Military Area
Under no circumstances are you allowed to use a radar detector anywhere in or near a military base.
That’s because they tend to interfere with military equipment that uses the same technology
Radar Detector Alternatives
There are apps that you can download on your smartphone that can function like radar detectors, thus removing the need to buy the device separately.
Cameras and customizable GPS settings might help too, although probably not in the same way as radar detectors.
Other options here include laser jammers and radar jammers. You can only use them to a limited extent (such as on highways) in the state of Iowa.
Radar Detector Common Myths
Misunderstandings regarding radar detectors generally relate to the driver focusing too much on the equipment or deliberately speeding up when the radars are not detected.
On the contrary, this equipment can prevent accidents and violations if used within the stipulations of the law.
Another common way in which people misconstrue radar detectors is by thinking that they can get them out of speeding tickets. There are times when the police will still end up catching you.
Note that all drivers can benefit from radar detectors, not just those who are deemed to be dangerous.
State of Iowa Info
Situated in the Midwest, Iowa (or the Hawkeye state) has a diverse economy in place, centering around agriculture, finance, manufacturing, information technology, and other industries.
Iowa is surrounded by the states of Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Nebraska. The state has 99 counties with several important towns and cities.
It is the 31st most populated state in the country and ranks 26th in terms of how large it is. It experiences both heat and cold at intense degrees.
Population: 3,193,079
Capital: Des Moines
Registered vehicles: 4,341,801
Total lane miles: 114,782
Number of highways: 9