Many people rely on their ability to drive themselves to and from work. But life can get a little frustrating when one faces a driver's license suspension. No longer able to transport themselves to and from places, drivers with suspended licenses have to rely on others or even public transportation to get where they need to go.

But if a driver is caught driving with a suspended license, there are penalties that can go beyond the loss of driving privileges. In some situations, the driver can be ordered by the court to serve a probation sentence or pay fines for the traffic citations. One particular Erie County Councilman is fighting his two latest charges of driving on a suspended license.

The Councilman already has several convictions for driving on a suspended license. In fact, last year the Councilman was sentenced to six months of probation after he admittedly drove without a valid license. It is unclear whether he complied with the court's sentence.

However earlier last month, the Councilman was seen driving from the courthouse even though his license had not been reinstated. As a result, he was charged with two charges of driving on a suspended license. A judge has ordered him to appear in court, but the Councilman is refusing to appear for trial. But even if he fails to appear, the trial would commence regardless and he could be sentenced to six months in prison.

Pennsylvania drivers should understand that there are penalties for driving on a suspended license. Multiple offenses can result in more severe consequences. Often, to help reduce the risk of additional penalties and charges, it can help to speak with someone who understands what options are available for drivers who have suspended licenses.

Source: Erie Times-News online, "Erie County Councilman Beeman rejects traffic citations as 'parasitic'," Lisa Thompson, 13 July 2011