MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

A sleeping person behind the wheel of a running vehicle is classified as which of the following?

1. Owner

2. Operator

3. Driver

The correct answer is: Operator

In the context of motor vehicle laws, the term "operator" typically refers to someone who controls the vehicle's movement. A sleeping person behind the wheel of a running vehicle is still considered to be in a position where they can potentially manipulate the vehicle, even if they are not actively driving at that moment. While "driver" often implies active engagement in the operation of the vehicle, being an operator doesn't require that the person is awake or alert; it simply identifies their ability to operate the vehicle. As such, the classification of the individual as an operator is appropriate because they are in command of the vehicle's operational capabilities, regardless of their state of consciousness. The owner designation refers to the individual who holds legal title to the vehicle, which does not correlate to their ability to operate it at any given time. Therefore, classifying the person as an operator accurately reflects their role in relation to the vehicle, even while they are sleeping.