The Dangers of Rolling Stops: Protecting Iowa Motorcyclists
Rolling through stop signs and red lights isn’t just a minor traffic violation—it’s a serious hazard, especially for motorcyclists. In Iowa, failure to come to a complete stop is among the top causes of traffic crashes, often leading to devastating injuries or even fatalities.
According to Clay County Iowa, failure to stop is the 4th leading cause of crashes in the state.
What Are Iowa’s Stop Laws?
Iowa law says that all drivers must come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights. That means stopping before entering a crosswalk, intersection, or before the stop line—whichever comes first. Ignoring this law—even with a “California roll”—is considered a moving violation and can lead to tickets, points on your license, and more importantly, accidents that could’ve been avoided.
Why Rolling Stops Are Dangerous for Bikers
Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than cars or trucks. A driver who rolls through a stop sign might glance quickly but fail to notice an approaching biker. These kinds of mistakes often result in:- T-bone crashes
- Intersection collisions
- Left-turn accidents
Frequently Asked Questions
Click the (+) on any of the questions below.What is a rolling stop?
A rolling stop happens when a driver slows down at a stop sign or red light but doesn’t come to a full stop before proceeding.
Can a rolling stop cause an accident?
Yes. Rolling stops reduce reaction time and make it harder to spot other vehicles—especially motorcycles, which are smaller and less visible.
Can I sue if someone hits me because they didn’t stop?
If a driver failed to stop and caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Talk to an attorney to understand your rights.
What should I do if I’m hit by someone who ran a stop sign?
Call 911, get medical help, document the scene, and then contact a motorcycle accident attorney immediately.
Is it still illegal if no one else is at the intersection?
Yes. Iowa law requires a full stop at every stop sign or red light—whether or not another vehicle is present.
What Can Injured Motorcyclists Do?
If you were hit because a driver failed to stop properly, you may be able to get compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Bike repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering
Iowa uses a comparative fault system, which means if you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover compensation. But if you’re 50% or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced based on your share of fault.
Why Choose The Biker Lawyers?
At The Biker Lawyers, we’re not just personal injury attorneys—we’re bikers too. We know what you’re going through and we fight like hell to protect your rights.
Free Consultation, Always.
Call us now at (319) 294-4424 or click here to contact us.
Updated April 2, 2025 by The Biker Lawyers, PC