How long you can park at rest sites and whether it is legal to sleep overnight at rest sites will depend on the laws of the state you are visiting. The specifics of whether it is legal to sleep in your car at a New York Thruway rest stop will depend on whether you are driving a commercial or non-commercial vehicle. Like any other state, it’s best to know the rules and regulations before planning to stop, rest or sleep at any of New York’s 27 Thruway parking areas and welcome centers.
Yes, motorists or drivers of non-commercial vehicles can legally sleep at New York Thruway rest stops, and there is no time limit on how long you can rest or sleep in the car. State law allows non-commercial motorists to park at service centers or rest areas for up to three hours overnight. However, if you leave the vehicle unattended for more than four hours, you could be in trouble, as authorities can tow your car and charge you $120 to $150, which does not include per mile fees, winching rates, surcharges and other costs.
There is a limit of 16 hours per stay
Despite allowing motorists to sleep as long as they wish (without camping out or leaving the vehicle unattended), the New York Thruway Authority has made it clear that the plaza and rest areas are not ideal for long-term or multi-day parking. In addition, the maximum stay at commuter lots is 16 hours per session, and there are no spaces designated for overnight or long-term parking at the facilities.
In short, there is no limit on how long you can sleep at a NY rest stop, and that’s good. data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that 15% to 33% of fatal crashes may involve drowsy driving, so it is better to take a nap while driving rather than fight a losing battle with sleep.
Additionally, some Costco, Walmart, Sam’s Club or Home Depot stores along the way may allow napping or sleeping in the car in their parking lots. Some Costco retail stores also allow overnight RV parking, but you’ll need to check in advance or ask for permission before applying the parking brake and calling it a day (or night).
The rules are different for commercial drivers
The rules for sleeping at New York Thruway rest stops are different for commercial drivers. According to the summary of hours of service rules mandated by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)Drivers of commercial vehicles carrying property can only drive for a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours of off-duty rest. That’s why the NY Thruway has truck stops that allow up to 10 hours of sleeping or overnight parking to conform to FMCSA regulations.
Additionally, FMCSA regulations apply to passenger-carrying commercial drivers, who must meet a strict 10-hour driving limit only after 8 consecutive hours off-duty. The 570-mile New York Thruway typically has rest stops and service areas every 30 or 40 miles along the highway. The welcome center and rest area are open 24 hours, but keep in mind that parking is not allowed for more than 16 hours, and not following the rules can result in a ticket and tow.
