During long road trips or other travels, it’s not uncommon to spend the night in a car. Travelers visiting Arizona should be aware of the legal implications of this activity.
In addition to providing best practices, safety considerations, and legal and practical information, this article examines whether it is legal to sleep in your car in Arizona.
A Legal Look at Arizona’s Car Sleep Laws
It is not illegal to sleep in your automobile in Arizona according to state law. Travelers can benefit from this forbearance, especially those trying to save back on lodging expenses. While it’s normally acceptable to sleep in your car, it’s crucial to remember that parking lot camping is not allowed.
Locations: You Can Sleep in Your Car Legally
Arizona boasts a large number of well-equipped public parking lots that provide a secure spot for motorists to pull over.
Street Retail Markets: These locations make it easy to spend the night because they have free parking.
Traveler’s Space Program: Arizona provides spaces set aside for travelers to rest; however, the amount of space available and the length of stay permitted may be restricted.
Difficulties with the Law
The possibility of being charged with DUI and sleeping in a car is a big legal factor. Whether or not the car is moving, it is unlawful to be in physical control of a vehicle in Arizona if the driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of.08 or above.
This statute suggests that if you sleep in the driver’s seat with the keys in the ignition, you might be charged with DUI since it could be seen as having control of the car.
Recommendations for Car Sleeping
- The ignition should not contain keys.
- Get a backseat or passenger seat instead of sleeping in the driver’s seat.
- Make sure your car is parked in a permitted and safe location.
- Maintain window shutters slightly open for ventilation and keep doors secured.
- Know the rules and limitations of parking in your area.
- Perils and Things to Think About
- Arizona permits automobile napping, but you should still think about the risks to your health and personal safety. Long periods spent in a car, particularly during severe weather, can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. Finding a secure parking spot and a place to relax should always come first.
Arizonans who go boondocking
In Arizona, most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land permits up to 14 days of undesignated camping, or boondocking, for intrepid travelers.
Conclusion
It is flexible to sleep in your car when traveling through Arizona. For a trouble-free and safe travel, it is imperative to remain up to date on the laws and recommended procedures.
Even if it’s not strictly forbidden in Arizona, it’s important to know the precise laws that might be in effect where you live. As you journey through this stunning desert state, being careful to check local rules, respect private property, and put safety first will help guarantee a seamless and lawful rest stop.
