Well, between PennDot, the judges in Pennsylvania, and MADD, it is getting crazy when it comes to being able to have a legal drink.
There is this guy in Lebanon who admitted to his doctor that he drinks a six pack of beer a day. The doctor told the police, who initially revoked his license. A judge ruled that he can keep his license, but must install an ignition interlock device.
LEBANON - A county judge upheld the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's decision to recall the driver's license of a Lebanon man who the agency considers to be an alcoholic.But in his ruling, Judge Bradford Charles said PennDOT should not suspend Keith Emerich's driving privileges indefinitely. Because of the unique situation, Charles ordered Emerich to install on his car an ignition interlock, a device that would prevent him from starting the car if he's been drinking.
Emerich, 44, said yesterday he can't afford the rental fees, which could cost more than $1,100 a year.
"It's not an option for me," said Emerich, of the 400 block of North Fifth Street. "I've already tapped into my 401k plan. I can't even fight [Charles' decision], I'm so tapped out. I'm thinking of contacting the ACLU."
Charles' decision comes about three weeks after a July 29 hearing at which Emerich appealed the suspension.
Emerich has been unable to drive since he received the recall notice from PennDOT on April 1. He thought it was a practical joke until he contacted the agency and learned that an unidentified doctor reported him as having a condition that could impair his driving ability.
By law, physicians are required to report anyone who has a medical condition that interferes with his or her ability to drive safely. Such conditions include epilepsy, diabetes, poor eyesight, even old age.
First off, I would sue the hell out of that doctor. For all the bitching doctors do about being sued for being stupid, this does not help their cause.
Second, the guy should cut down on the hootch, but that is his right to drink a six pack of Bud everyday.
Third, the guy committed no crime. He never has had a DUI, yet the state is requiring an interlock device, just in case he does
If I were him, I would get a lawyer and thake this up the chain of courts. PennDot requiring this law sets a dangerous precedent. They already infringe on our rights by pulling me over at checkpoints for not breaking any laws.
Stalin would be proud.
Goodbye freedom.
Posted by psugrad98 at August 18, 2004 10:19 AM
