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Long road trips can be tiring, and drivers may sometimes feel the need to stop and take a quick nap inside their car. However, parking a vehicle on the roadside and sleeping in it may not always be a safe or legally acceptable option. Where you park your car matters, especially on highways and busy public roads. According to the reference report, incorrectly parking a vehicle in a public place can result in a traffic challan and, in some situations, the vehicle may also be towed.

 

Sleeping inside your car is not necessarily an offence by itself. The problem arises when the vehicle is parked in a location where parking is prohibited or where it creates inconvenience or danger for other road users. Under Section 122 of the Motor Vehicles Act, a vehicle should not be left in a public place in a manner that causes or is likely to cause danger, obstruction or undue inconvenience to others. Parking on a no-parking zone, footpath or certain highway and expressway areas can therefore lead to action by traffic authorities.

The amount of a parking fine can vary depending on the location and applicable local traffic regulations. The referenced report states that violations in situations such as parking in prohibited areas can attract a fine ranging from Rs500 to Rs2,000. If the vehicle is towed, an additional towing charge of around Rs300 to Rs800 may also apply, according to the report. Since parking penalties can differ between cities and jurisdictions, motorists should always check the applicable local rules.

A traffic challan is not the only concern when you park on the roadside to sleep. Safety should be the biggest priority. On highways, vehicles travel at high speeds, increasing the risk of a collision with a stationary car. A vehicle parked close to the traffic lane can be difficult for approaching drivers to notice, particularly at night or in poor visibility. There is also a potential risk associated with running an engine and air conditioner while sleeping inside a stationary vehicle. Carbon monoxide exposure can be extremely dangerous, particularly if exhaust gases enter the vehicle cabin. Therefore, simply keeping the windows closed and the AC running should not be considered a completely safe way to sleep in a car.

If you feel sleepy or exhausted during a long journey, the safest option is to find a designated and secure place to stop rather than pulling over randomly on the roadside. Depending on availability and local rules, drivers can consider highway rest areas, authorised parking spaces, suitable petrol station premises, designated areas near toll plazas, hotels or restaurants with parking facilities. Such locations can offer better lighting and a safer environment than an isolated roadside stop. If an emergency forces you to stop temporarily on the roadside, move the vehicle as far away from the active traffic lane as safely possible and use the appropriate warning or parking lights.

Drivers should be particularly careful not to park near locations where a stationary vehicle can obstruct traffic or create a safety hazard. Avoid parking on footpaths, bridges, blind turns and immediately near intersections. You should also avoid blocking entrances, gates or private property. Apart from creating inconvenience for others, such parking can attract action from traffic authorities.

Taking a short break during a long journey is important, but choosing the right place to stop is equally important. Parking illegally just to get some sleep can potentially result in a challan, towing expenses and, more importantly, an accident risk. Before beginning a long journey, plan your route and identify suitable places where you can safely take breaks. A few extra minutes spent finding authorised parking can help you avoid unnecessary fines and keep both you and other road users safer.