Iowa law maintains strict regulations regarding the consumption of alcohol within motor vehicles. According to state statutes, it is illegal for any person to consume an alcoholic beverage, wine, or beer while operating or riding as a passenger in any motor vehicle upon a public highway. While some states have nuanced exceptions, Iowa's open container laws are comprehensive; therefore, possession of an open alcoholic beverage container by the driver or any passenger in the vehicle, even if the vehicle is parked on a public street or roadway, constitutes a prohibited activity punishable by state law and local traffic ordinances.