When it comes to intoxication, sometimes it’s just best to sleep it off. But what about when you are already in your car? In some cases, you can receive a DWI even when you aren’t actually driving at all. So here’s a few ways to get by with drunk sleeping in your vehicle without facing a DWI.
Drunk Sleeping: How to Safely Sleep It Off in Your Car
Don’t Sleep in the Driver’s Seat
One the safest things you can do when drunk sleeping is to avoid the driver’s seat. In order for you to face a DWI charge, you must be operating, have operated, or be in control of a motor vehicle. Therefore, sitting in the driver’s seat, even to sleep, can lead an to believe a few things. First, they may assume you were just driving and pulled over and passed out. In that case, you still would be guilty of driving while intoxicated. Secondly, they may assume you were preparing to drive. Or they may say because you were in the driver’s seat, you were in control of the vehicle. All of which may lead to a DWI arrest.
So where should you sleep instead? If you must sleep in your car while intoxicated, go to the back seat. By doing this, you are rendering control of the vehicle. You also are making it apparent that you are not planning to drive.
Leave the Keys Out of the Ignition and Your Hands
When it comes to the keys, you don’t want to give the appearance that you are or have been driving. Therefore, leaving the keys in the ignition is not a good option. This can make it seem like you just drove or are preparing to drive again very soon. Likewise, having the keys in your hand, your pocket, or anywhere on your person is also not good. As this can give off the same impression and lead to DWI charges.
So where should you leave your keys? One option may be to place your keys in your glove box. This can show that you were not planning to drive anytime soon. But because this is still within reach, it can be risky as well. So if possible, it’s better to place your keys in the trunk when drunk sleeping.
Don’t Just Pull Off the Road
You never want to just pull off of the road when drunk sleeping. In fact, this is a more sure way to ensure you face DWI charges. Instead, try to stay in a parking lot, if possible.
In short, drunk sleeping is a much better plan than drunk driving. However, while it may keep you safe from accidents, it may not prevent you facing a DWI. So it’s best to find another plan after a night of drinking. Phone a friend or call a ride service because drunk sleeping may not be the best option.