Driving in Wyoming can be rough. You wake up early to hit the road and you can be driving for a long period of time.

After listening to the hum of the road for a while, your eyes start to get heavy and you're in trouble. You need to get some rest before you can continue your drive.

There's a large portion of Wyoming roads that are open and it may be a while before you get to the next town, gas station or hotel.

Luckily Wyoming has 37 Rest Areas across the state where you can stop to relax.

If you've ever been on a long road trip, you know how important it is to be alert and rested. If you're tired, groggy and delirious it could be a major issue and may be deadly.

If you're able to stop at a rest area, truck stop or find a parking lot; can you actually sleep in your car?

The short answer is yes.

The long answer is: it's not illegal to sleep in your car, but you have to make sure you're in an area that allows parking for a long period of time and isn't on private property.

Wyoming's rest areas are open 24/7 and allow for overnight parking, which is a good place to stop if you need to sleep.

Rest Area Locations
WYDOT
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According to WYDOT, if you need more than a quick nap you are allowed to get a full nights sleep, but don't set up camp and stay a long period of time.

If you're in a town it's still ok to sleep in your car. You can park and sleep on city streets; as long as it's a legal place to park.

No parking zones are still no parking zones, private parking lots and property is still private and you could be ticketed or arrested for trespassing.

There is one reason that sleeping in your car is an issue and that's if you're drunk.

Interesting, right?

If you've had a long night at the bar and decide it's best that you don't drive, but have no options other than sleeping in your car, be careful. You could be given a DUI charge, even if you're not behind the wheel and the keys aren't in the ignition.

You can read more on that here, but know that sleeping in your car is a much safer option that driving drunk and not making it home.

Findlaw.com says the best ways to avoid a DUI while sleeping it off

  • Make it clear you're sleeping and not taking a driving break
  • Don't sleep in the drivers seat
  • Don't have the keys on you

These will not guarantee you won't be arrested for DUI, but they will show that you have no intent to drive and may help you in the long run.

Safety is a major concern when sleeping in your car. Consider these tips for your safety

  • Let someone know of your location before going to sleep.
  • Never park on the side of the road and try to stay to lit parking lots or rest areas
  • Create a comfortable sleeping position. Sleeping in cramped situation can cause issues with circulation
  • Don't leave your vehicle running to assure you don't breathe in harmful emissions, running out of gas or killing your battery. Always have a blanket with you on trips to keep you warm.
  • Never leave your windows fully open
  • Make sure your doors are locked
  • Use blanket or coats to cover the windows to keep block the view of those walking or driving by

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