After a night of bar hopping and binge drinking with your friends, you may not be able to drive home. Therefore, you might think sleeping off a night of drinking in your car is safe.
But in Tennessee, you could still face DUI charges. Many people may not know the laws and end up in trouble. Knowing how this works can help you stay out of legal hot water.
Sleeping it off may not be a good idea
Sleeping in your car after drinking seems smart, but it can still get you in legal trouble. This is because Tennessee law allows police to arrest you for DUI even if you’re not driving. This happens when you have “physical control” of a vehicle while drunk. Here’s what you should know:
- Driver’s seat: Sitting here, even if asleep, may be seen as controlling the car
- Keys nearby: Having them in the ignition or close by can be used against you
- Engine status: A running engine or one that’s easy to start can spell trouble
- Your plans: Even if you only want to sleep, cops might not believe you
These things can lead to a DUI charge, even if your car isn’t moving. This can mess up your life in many ways, hurting your relationships, career, finances, and future chances.
What you can try instead
While it may be tempting to drive home or sleep in your car, these options can lead you to a world of trouble. To potentially avoid DUI charges, try these safer options instead:
- Use a ride-sharing app or hail a cab
- Get a sober friend to drive you home
- Take a bus or train if they’re running
- Book a room at a nearby hotel
These choices might cost more or be less handy, but they can keep you out of legal trouble.
Sleeping in your car when drunk might seem harmless, but it can cause big problems. By knowing the risks and planning ahead, you can make better choices and avoid criminal charges. Always put your safety first when drinking is involved.