Expert: Jim Pastore - 6/17/2009

Question
Why do all trucks say, " IT IS A DAY OF MORNING WHEN YOU TRAVEL THROUGH THE BUCKEYE" I have been awakened in rest areas by cops wanting to see paperwork! IT WAS 3 IN THE MORNING!!!!! They treated my like I was a dog, and threatened me! I said Wake me when I am on duty, They said no! NOW! Is that LEGAL! I will never return to Ohio!

Answer
Jim,

   Unless they are checking on your welfare or looking for someone I don't have any idea why they would wake you at 3AM. I was not a trooper so I'm not sure what their reasoning is. When I worked for the SO years ago it was legal to park at the rest stop and sleep. I really don't know what the regulations are now. The only thing I could advise is wait until the daytime and call the OSP troop that patrols the interstate and ask to talk to the supervisor and request him to explain the regulations for rest areas to you. Sorry I can't be of more help.

Jim