A Man Suspected Of Driving Under The Influence States That The Laws Do Not Apply To Him And The Court’s Have No Jurisdiction Over Him In Pennsylvania
The Philadelphia car accident and Dram Shop lawyers of Reiff and Bily continue to be astounded when people fail to take responsibility for their actions, particularly while driving when intoxicated. In our opinion, these individuals are the worst offenders and deserve to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law criminally and civilly for the damages and harm that they cause. Recently, an Easton, Pennsylvania man identified as 44-year old Scott Allan Witmer, who represented himself in a court hearing, stated that the police lacked jurisdiction to pull him over and furthermore stated “I live inside myself not in Pennsylvania” and stated there was no victim in the crime. This is according to news sources published March 10, 2009 in the Daily Item, Easton, Pennsylvania. ((news article)
What this gentleman fails to recognize is that the drunk driving laws of Pennsylvania apply to everyone and are intended to deter such irresponsible behaviors which often lead up to catastrophic injuries and fatalities to innocent victims.
Unfortunately thousands of people die on Pennsylvania and national highways ever year as the result of alcohol related incidents. In Pennsylvania, people who are harmed by drunk drivers may file a law suit against irresponsible and reckless bar owners, as well as an intoxicated driver. An intoxicated person who causes a catastrophic accident or fatality while operating a motor vehicle, as well as a business or personal establishment or social host who gave alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person, is legally responsible for any damage that person may cause.
It is astounding that this gentleman, who was stopped for driving under the influence, believes that he is above the law. It is important that people accept responsibility for their actions and be held financially responsible for any resulting injuries and fatalities. Pennsylvania law is quite clear that it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while in an intoxicated state.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed as the result of a drunk driving accident or any other alcohol related injury caused by the negligence of an irresponsible party, please contact one of our experienced alcohol related injury and Dram Shop liability attorneys at Reiff and Bily for a free evaluation of your case at 1-800-421-9595 or online at www.reiffandbily.com.
