Is it illegal to sleep in my car when drunk?

WHILE sleeping in your car after a big night out might seem like a good idea at the time you may need to reconsider.

Those who are caught napping in the backseat while drunk, may be hit with a hefty fine or even lose their license.

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Is it illegal to sleep in my car when drunk?

It is illegal to be under the influence in your car.

Even if you were not planning to drive, you can still be in trouble if caught dozing off in your parked car.

The same goes if you are found drunk in your car while parked on your property.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, a motorist can be found guilty of the offence if they are “in charge of a motor vehicle on a road or other public place after consuming so much alcohol that the proportion of it in his breath, blood or urine exceeds the prescribed limit”.

How much can I be fined for sleeping in my car when drunk?

If you are caught in a vehicle while above the legal limit you could be hit with a maximum fine of £2,500.

You could also end up being disqualified from driving.

In more serious cases, you could face up to three months’ imprisonment.

What to do if you are drunk and can’t get home

Sleeping it off in your car may seem like an easy solution but it could cost you.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are under the influence and can’t drive home, it’s better to seek alternatives.

You could contact a friend or family member to give you a ride or perhaps use public transport.

Additionally, you could use a taxi to get home safely.

Depending on how much alcohol you have consumed you might need to consider spending the night at a hotel until you sober up.