Michigan Drivers can Still Sleep at Rest Areas, But New Rules Loom for Extended stays
LANSING – Despite the planned closure of five Michigan rest areas this winter, it remains legal for travelers to sleep in their vehicles at the state’s remaining rest areas, but new regulations under consideration by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) could require permits for longer stays. The evolving rules aim to address issues that have arisen at rest areas, while clarifying that their primary purpose is to provide a safe place for drivers to rest during travel.
MDOT is currently reviewing public feedback on a draft of rules that would likely necessitate a special permit for individuals needing to leave a vehicle at a rest area, or carpool with a vehicle remaining at the location, for more than 48 hours. According to MDOT spokeswoman Jocelyn Garza, the proposed regulations stem from specific situations encountered at rest areas. “All the rules address specific situations that have occurred at rest areas,” she said.
The concern that the new rules would prohibit resting at rest areas is unfounded, Garza emphasized. ”The intention of a rest area is for somebody to come and sleep and make sure they’re safe when they’re back behind the wheel, they feel rested enough to be driving.”
MDOT is closing the following rest areas this winter:
* Northbound US-23 near Clarkston
* Southbound US-23 near Clarkston
* Northbound I-75 near Hill Road
* Southbound I-75 near hill Road
* Eastbound I-94 near New Buffalo
Readers with questions about Michigan laws can submit them to isitlegal@freepress.com for investigation.
