Time out from the work I am supposed to be doing. I just found this news item as I was looking around for things to post on WinnsboroToday.com. It is so absurd I had to add it to my list of Some of the Stupidest Things I’ve Heard Of.
A federal appeals court has ruled that a former Michigan inmate who claims he was denied toothpaste for nearly a year can sue prison officials. They state that being denied the use of toothpaste impeded his constitutional right against cruel and unusual punishment. Jerry Flanory, of Flint, says he developed gum disease and had a tooth removed in 2006 as a result of no toothpaste. The appeals court reinstated his lawsuit Thursday against officials at the Newberry prison in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
I have long believed that we in America are way too quick on the litigation draw, and I’ve never believed that other people should pay for our misfortunes. Not that I’m against litigation when it’s clearly warranted. There are times when legal action is the only recourse, but that recourse should not be taken lightly.
“Sue the bastard” should not be the first words out of our mouths when we hear about some accident or tragedy.
And we shouldn’t be suing for something as absurd as losing a tooth.
What do you think? What are some of the absurd things people have sued for that you know of?
I am saddened by some lawyers who are advertise for fall and injuries. One thinks of the profit motive as the primary incentive.
I don’t keep up with legal cases, but the woman who sued because she spilt hot coffee in her lap was nutty.
Helen
Straight From Hel
What is sad, Paul, is when people think that somehow the money will make up for injury or loss. How do you put a price tag on a life?