HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-2292
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Pl-
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
I.D.# 87737
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Spears@HHRLaw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
LISA A. HARRELL and,
ROBERT HARRELL,
Plaintiffs
V.
GEORGE SHARPE, and
INTERSTATE TOWING AND
RECOVERY,
Defendants
NOTICE
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in
the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this Complaint and Notice
are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the
Court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you
fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the
Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint or for any other claim or relief
requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A
LAWYER, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN
PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER. O
4Qa.oo Pp ATTq
CO ISoa13
Rya 31991
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 10 - a619a C IV I L Te m
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE
YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO
ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(800) 990-9108
(717) 249-3166
AVISO
USTED HA SIDO DEMANDADO/A EN CORTE. Si usted desea defenderse de las demandas que
se presentan mas adelante en las siguientes paginas, debe tomar acci6n dentro de los pr6ximos
veinte (20) dias despues de la notificaci6n de esta Demanda y Aviso radicando personalmente o
por medio de un abogado una comparecencia escrita y radicando en la Corte por escrito sus
defensas de, y objecciones a, las demandas presentadas aqui en contra suya. Se le advierte de
que si usted falla de tomar acci6n como se describe anteriormente, el caso puede proceder sin
usted y un fallo por cualquier suma de dinero reclamada en la demanda o cualquier otra
reclamaci6n o remedio solicitado por el demandante puede ser dictado en contra suya por la Corte
sin mas aviso adicional. Usted puede perder dinero o propiedad u otros derechos importantes
para usted.
USTED DEBE LLEVAR ESTE DOCUMENTO A SU ABOGADO INMEDIATAMENTE. SI USTED
NO TIENE UN ABOGADO, LLAME O VAYAA LASIGUIENTE OFICINA. ESTAOFICINA PUEDE
PROVEERLE INFORMACION A CERCA DE COMO CONSEGUIR UN ABOGADO.
SI USTED NO PUEDE PAGAR POR LOS SERVICIOS DE UN ABOGADO, ES POSIBLE QUE
ESTA OFICINA LE PUEDA PROVEER INFORMACION SOBRE AGENCIAS QUE OFREZCAN
SERVICIOS LEGALES SIN CARGO O BAJO COSTO A PERSONAS QUE CUALIFICAN.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(800) 990-9108
(717) 249-3166
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
By:
Andrew . Spears
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
I.D.# 87737
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000 Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Spears@HHRLaw.com
LISA A. HARRELL and, IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
ROBERT HARRELL, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
V. NO.
GEORGE SHARPE, and CIVIL ACTION - LAW
INTERSTATE TOWING AND
RECOVERY,
Defendants
COMPLAINT
AND NOW come the Plaintiff's, Lisa A. Harrell amd Robert Harrell, by and through
her attorneys, HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP, by Andrew C. Spears, Esq.,
and make the within Complaint against the Defendants, George Sharpe, and Interstate
Towing and Recovery, and aver as follows:
1. Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, is a competent adult individual currently residing at 110
Billerbeck Street, New Oxford, Adams Co. PA 17350.
2. Defendant, George Sharpe, is an adult individual currently residing at 2527
Barkley Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17104.
3. Defendant, Interstate Towing and Recovery, is an Pennsylvania business
currently located at 1120 St Johns Rd, Camp Hill, PA 17011.
4. At all times material hereto, Defendant, Interstate Towing and Recovery, was
the owner and operator of a tow truck (hereinafter, "Defendant's vehicle")
5. At all times material hereto, Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, was the owner and operator
of a 2006 Ford Freestyle (hereinafter, "Plaintiff's vehicle"), bearing the Pennsylvania
registration number C47332372.
6. At all times material hereto, Plaintiff was insured under an automobile
insurance policy with State Farm Insurance Company and was covered by the full-tort
option.
7. At all times material to this action, there were no adverse weather or road
conditions.
8. On or about September 2, 2009, at about 5:10 p.m., Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell,
was lawfully stopped on East Main Street at the Locust intersection.
9. At approximately the same time and place, the Plaintiff waived a first vehicle
through the stop sign.
10. At approximately the same time and place, Defendant, George Sharpe,
failed to yield at the stop sign and proceeded into the intersection immediately after the car
the Plaintiff initially waived through and pulled directly into the path of Plaintiff's vehicle.
11. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, George
Sharpe, the Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, sustained serious and extensive injuries as set forth
below:
2
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
LISA HARRELL v. GEORGE SHARPE,
12. Paragraphs 1-11 are incorporated herein as if fully set forth at length.
13. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and all the resultant injuries
to Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, are the direct and proximate result of the negligence of the
Defendant, George Sharpe, generally and more specifically, as set forth below:
(a) In failing to keep a proper lookout for vehicles lawfully traveling
through the intersection at East Main Street and Locust;
(b) In failing to be reasonably vigilant to observe the vehicle which
Plaintiff was operating;
(c) In failing to yield the right of way to a vehicle approaching in the
opposite direction while intending to turn left, in violation of 75
Pa.C.S.A. §3322;
(d) In failing to yield the legal right-of-way to Plaintiff's vehicle;
(e) In failing to operate his vehicle under proper and adequate control in
order that he could avoid striking the Plaintiffs vehicle;
(f) In failing to operate his vehicle in such a manner so that he could
apply the brakes to avoid striking Plaintiffs vehicle;
3
(g) In failing to operate his vehicle at an appropriate speed, when
approaching or crossing an intersection, as to be able to stop within
the assured clear distance, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S.A. §3361;
(h) In failing to stop his vehicle before entering the intersection at East
Main Street and Locust;
(i) In proceeding into the intersection at East Main Street and Locust
when such movement could not be made safely; and
(j) In failing to exercise reasonable care in the operation and control of
his vehicle.
14. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, George
Sharpe, the Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, sustained serious personal injuries including, but not
limited to, injuries to her neck and back.
15. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, George
Sharpe, the Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, has been, and will in the future be, hindered from
performing her daily duties and chores, to her loss, humiliation and embarrassment.
16. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, George
Sharpe, the Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, has suffered physical pain, discomfort and mental
anguish and will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the future,
to her physical, emotional and financial detriment and loss.
17. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, George
Sharpe, the Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, has been compelled, and will in the future be compelled,
in order to effect a cure for the aforementioned injuries, to expend money for medicine and
medical attention to her detriment and loss.
4
18. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, George
Sharpe, the Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, has suffered a loss of life's pleasures and she will
continue to suffer the same in the future, to her detriment and loss.
19. Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, believes and, therefore, avers that her injuries are
permanent and serious in nature.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, seeks damages from the Defendant, George
Sharpe, in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland County,
and demands a trial by jury.
COUNT II - VICARIOUS LIABILITY
LISA HARRELL v. INTERSTATE TOWING AND RECOVERY
20. Paragraphs 1-19 are incorporated herein as if fully set forth below.
21. At all times material to this action, Defendant, George Sharpe, was an agent,
servant, and/or employee of Defendant, Interstate Towing and Recovery.
22. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and all of the resultant
injuries to Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, are the direct and proximate result of the negligence and/or
carelessness, of Defendants George Sharpe, and Interstate Towing and Recovery.
23. The aforementioned negligent, and/or careless conduct of Defendant,
George Sharpe, occurred while acting in and upon the business of Defendant, Interstate
Towing and Recovery, and within the course and scope of his employment with said
Defendant.
5
24. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of the Defendant,
Interstate Towing and Recovery, Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, has suffered extensive personal
injuries, including, but not limited to, injuries to her neck and back.
25. Defendant is vicariously liable for the physical, emotional, and financial loss
Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, has suffered and will continue to endure for an indefinite period of
time in the future.
26. Defendant is vicariously liable forthe amount of wages Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell,
has lost and the future loss of income and/or loss of earning capacity that will be sustained.
27. Defendant is vicariously liable to Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, as she has been
compelled, in order to effect a cure for the aforesaid injuries, to expend money for medicine
and/or medical attention, and will be required to expend money for the same purposes in
the future, to her detriment and loss.
28. Defendant is vicariously liable for hindering Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, from
attending to her daily duties, to her detriment, loss, humiliation, and embarrassment.
29. Defendant is vicariously liable to Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, for her loss of life's
pleasures, to her detriment and loss.
30. Defendant is vicariously liable to Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, for the substantial
property loss she has suffered, to her detriment and loss.
31. Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, believes and, therefore, avers that her injuries are
serious and permanent in nature.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Lisa Harrell, seeks damages from Defendant, Interstate
Towing and Recovery, in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of
Cumberland County, exclusive of interest and costs.
6
COUNT III - LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
ROBERT HARRELL v. GEORGE SHARPE
36. Paragraphs 1-35 are incorporated herein as fully set forth below.
37. As a result of the negligence of the Defendant, George Sharpe, Plaintiff
Robert Harrell, has suffered a loss of consortium, society, and comfort from his wife, Lisa
Harrell, and he will continue to suffer a similar loss in the future.
38. As a result of the negligence of the Defendant, George Sharpe, the Plaintiff,
Robert Harrell, has been compelled, in order to effect a cure for his wife's injuries, to spend
money for medicine and/or medical attention and will be required to spend money for the
same purposes in the future, to his detriment and loss.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Robert Harrell, seeks damages from Defendant, George
Sharpe, in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland County.
COUNT VI - LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
ROBERT HARRELL v. INTERSTATE TOWING AND RECOVERY
39. Paragraphs 1-38 are incorporated herein as fully set forth below.
40. As a result of the negligence of the Defendant, Interstate Towing and
Recovery, the Plaintiff, Robert Harrell, has suffered a loss of consortium, society, and
comfort from his wife, Lisa Harrell, and he will continue to suffer a similar loss in the future.
41. As a result of the negligence of the Defendant, Interstate Towing and
Recovery, the Plaintiff, Robert Harrell, has been compelled, in order to effect a cure for his
wife's injuries, to spend money for medicine and/or medical attention and will be required
to spend money for the same purposes in the future, to his detriment and loss.
7
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Robert Harrell, seeks damages from Defendant, Interstate
Towing and Recovery, in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of
Cumberland County.
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
Date: ( By:
Andrew C. Spears, Esq.
I.D. No. 87737
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
8
VERIFICATION
The undersigned hereby verifies that the statements in the foregoing document are
based upon information which has been furnished to counsel by me and information which
has been gathered by counsel in the preparation of this lawsuit. The language of the
document is of counsel and not my own. I have read the document and to the extent that
it is based upon information which I have given to counsel, it is true and correct to the best
of my knowledge, information and belief. To the extent that the contents of the document
are that of counsel, I have relied upon my counsel in making this Verification. The
undersigned also understands that the statements made therein are made subject to the
penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Date: C3 fib/ l
Robert Harrell
POST &SCHELL, P.C.
BY: GREGORY S. HIRTZEL, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: ghirtzel@postschell.com
I.D. # 56027
BY: MICHAEL F. SOCHA, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: msocha@postschell.com
I.D. # 200988
1857 WILLIAM PENN WAY
P.O. BOX 10248
LANCASTER, PA 17605-0248
717-291-4532
LISA A. HARRELL and ROBERT
HARRELL,
Plaintiff,
vs.
GEORGE SHARPE and INTERSTATE
TOWING AND RECOVERY,
~i Z4
20{0 iii°~ i $ S ~~ ZO
CUN~ ,.'~ti4iY
Attorneys for Defendant
Interstate Towing and Recovery
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
NO. 10-2292
Defendants.
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter my appearance on behalf of Defendant Interstate Towing and Recovery on
whose behalf a jury trial is hereby demanded.
POST &SCHELL, P.C.
By:
Dated: May 14, 2010 MICHAEL F. SOC A, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Defendant
Interstate Towing and Recovery
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Lilly A. Torres, an employee of the law offices of Post & Schell, P.C do hereby certify
that I caused a true and correct copy of the foregoing document(s) to be served upon the
following designated person(s) by placing the same in the United States Mail, First Class
Delivery, on the date set forth below.
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
Handler Henning & Rosenberg
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Counsel for Plaintiffs
- ~... C
LILLY A. TORRE
DATE: May 14, 2010
POST &SCHELL, P.C.
BY: GREGORY S. HIRTZEL, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: ghirtzel@postschell.com
I.D. # 56027
BY: BRADLEY N. SPROUT, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: bsprout@postschell.com
I.D. # 203182
1857 WILLIAM PENN WAY
P.O. BOX 10248
LANCASTER, PA 17605-0248
717-291-4532
.,,..
f=! LEC~ -'~~ ~~r ~ ~~
r,c ,~ c~;~ ; i_ ~'n~rt~RY
20101'1~3Y 18 F~~ 4~ ~
~__ ~,_;
Attorneys for Defendant
Interstate Towing and Recovery
LISA A. HARRELL and ROBERT
HARRELL,
Plaintiff,
vs.
GEORGE SHARPE and INTERSTATE
TOWING AND RECOVERY,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
CNIL ACTION -LAW
NO. 10-2292
Defendants.
WITHDRAWAL OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly withdraw my appearance on behalf of Defendant Interstate Towing and Recovery
in the above matter.
POST &SCHELL, P.C.
By:
Dated: May 14, 2010
BRADL . SPROUT, EJSQ~
Attorne or Defendant (~
Interstate Towing and Recovery
i
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Lilly A. Torres, an employee of the law offices of Post & Schell, P.C do hereby certify
that I caused a true and correct copy of the foregoing document(s) to be served upon the
following designated person(s) by placing the same in the United States Mail, First Class
Delivery, on the date set forth below.
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
Handler Henning & Rosenberg
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Counsel for Plaintiffs
.---
LILLY A. T S
DATE: May 14, 2010
AIL}=1~ ,,,: `.:fy
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ZQ~~ ,~E~iC~ { ~ Pr'i ~ ~ ~~
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Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
I.D.# 87737
HANDLER, HENNING 8 ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Spears@HHRLaw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
LISA A. HARRELL and,
ROBERT HARRELL,
Plaintiffs
v.
GEORGE SHARPE, and
INTERSTATE TOWING AND
RECOVERY,
Defendants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 10-2292 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
PRAECIPE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA:
Please re-issue the Complaint in the above referenced matter. Please instruct the Sheriff of
Cumberland County to deputize York County serve the Complaint upon Defendant, George Sharp, by
personal service at: S'
109 Twin Hills Road ~~0.Od (~ ,T~'~
Dillsburg, PA 17019
e K~ ~o~.qi
r2'~- ayagoy
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
By
Date: Andrew C. Spea
I.D. #87737
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
SHERIFF'S OFFICE OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
t_
Ronny R Anderson ,~ ,., c~~ -1^
Sheriff ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~~~ritp of ~nin~~,~,~~
Jody S Smith ~ '`~ ~ ~ ~ ~ _ I ~•: ~~
Chief Deputy ~. ..~ ` :' " `: ° `° ` ` ` `` ~~"
~-, +r
,~., •
Richard W Stewart ~"= - `~ +r
SOilCltor S~FFiCE ,~ `'-~ ="ERIfF _ ~ ~ r~
I ~ ~~,.
Lisa Harrell (et al.) Case Number
vs.
George Sharpe (et al.) 2010-2292
SHERIFF'S RETURN OF SERVICE
06/18/2010 Ronny R. Anderson, Sheriff who being duly sworn according to law states that he made a diligent search
and inquiry for the within named defendant, to wit: George Sharp, but was unable to locate her in his
bailiwick. He therefore deputized the Sheriff of York County, PA to serve the within Complaint and Notice
according to law.
06/22/2010 York County Return: And now June 22, 2010 at 1240 hours I, Richard P. Keuerleber, Sheriff of York
County, Pennsylvania, do herby certify and return that I served a true copy of the within Complaint and
Notice, upon the within named defendant, to wit: George Sharpe by making known unto himself
personally, at 109 Twin Hills Road, Apartment #13, Dillsburg, PA 17019 its contents and at the same time
handing to him personally the said true and correct copy of the same.
SHERIFF COST: $37.44
June 30, 2010
SO ANSWERS,
RON R ANDERSON, SHERIFF
(c Coun'Suite Shenff. Teleosoft. Irc.
SHERIFF'S OFFICE OF YORK COUNTY
b
Richard P Keuerleber PETER J. MANGAN, ESQ.
Sheriff Solicitor
,,,~
Reuben B Zeager Richard E Rice, II
Chief Deputy, Operations Chief Deputy, Administration
LISA A. HARRELL
vs.
GEORGE SHARPE (et al.)
Case Number
10-2292 CIVIL
SHERIFF'S RETURN OF SERVICE
06/22/2010 12:40 PM -DEPUTY STEVEN DIEHL, BEING DULY SWORN ACCORDING TO LAW, SERVED THE
REQUESTED COMPLAINT IN CIVIL ACTION (CICA) BY "PERSONALLY" HANDING A TRUE COPY TO
A PERSON REPRESENTING THEMSELVES TO BE THE DEFENDANT, TO WIT: GEORGE SHARP AT
109 TWIN HILLS ROAD, APT.#13, DILLSBURG, PA 17019.
S~ VEN DIEHL, DEPUTY
SHERIFF COST: $44.50
June 24, 2010
SO AN S,
RI HARD P K ER EBE ,SHERIFF
NOTARY
Affirmed and subscribed to before me this
24th day of JiJI~E
~ (L~
t
COMMONWEALTH OF PEVVSYLVAN'A
2~1tJ NOTARIAL S_.;L ~~
LISA L. THORP~. NCT~.=w'U9L C
CITY OF YO~t~'. YOR~C C ~~`Y ~
~~/ };'ourFt,~ ~.Sr~Yr f,l eus:y't, ir,~ MY CO~IIMISSIC~ti ESC-"'IF?~~` A ~2 2U~s~
POST &SCHELL, P.C.
BY: GREGORY S. HIRTZEL, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: ghirtzel@postschell.com
I.D. # 56027
BY: MICHAEL F. SOCHA
E-MAIL: msocha@postschell.com
I.D. # 200988
1857 WILLIAM PENN WAY
P.O. BOX 10248
LANCASTER, PA 17605-0248
717-291-4532
LISA A. HARRELL and ROBERT
HARRELL,
Plaintiff,
i-ILc~.; -. ,
.-
.~~- -~ it i:t ~t,Y'~,'t'
2~PQ ~;~ 22 s`-1 E-~ ,i~,
V~.'~a'r ~ - ., .'~'i~ I
Attorneys for Defendants
George Sharp, incorrectly identified as George
Sharpe, and Interstate Towing and Recovery
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
vs.
GEORGE SHARPE and INTERSTATE
TOWING AND RECOVERY,
Defendants.
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
NO. 10-2292
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter our appearance on behalf of Defendant George Sharp (incorrectly identified
as George Sharpe) on whose behalf a jury trial is hereby demanded.
POST &SCHELL, P.C.
By:
Dated: July 20, 2010 GREGORY S. HIRTZEL, ESQUIRE
MICHAEL F. SOCHA, ESQUIRE
Attorneys for Defendants
George Sharp, incorrectly identified as
George Sharpe, and Interstate Towing
and Recovery
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Lilly A. Torres, an employee of the law offices of Post & Schell, P.C do hereby certify
that I caused a true and correct copy of the foregoing document(s) to be served upon the
following designated person(s) by placing the same in the United States Mail, First Class
Delivery, on the date set forth below.
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
Handler Henning & Rosenberg
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Counsel for Plaintiffs
c ~ ~~
LIL Y A. TO
DATE: July 20, 2010
POST & SCHELL, P.C.
BY: GREGORY S. HIRTZEL, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: ghirtzel@postschell.com
I.D. # 56027
BY: MICHAEL F. SOCHA, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: msocha@postschell.com
I.D. # 200988
;LIAM PENN WAY
11 P.O. BOX 10248
LANCASTER, PA 17605-0248
717-291-4532
LISA A. HARRELL and ROBERT
HARRELL,
Plaintiff,
vs.
GEORGE SHARPE and INTERSTATE
TOWING AND RECOVERY,
Defendants.
-i `,:
~1~_.. + E_,,
20"~ ~~ ; ~1'~~ ~.~~
c ~~U~ "~ ~,~ 1 D? y
G'..' {
P '
Attorneys for Defendants
George Sharp, incorrectly identified as George
Sharpe, and Interstate Towing and Recovery
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
NO. 10-2292
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: Lisa A. Harrell and Robert Harrell
c/o Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
Handler Henning & Rosenberg
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED to plead to the within New Matter within twenty (20)
days of service thereof or a default maybe entered against you.
POS SCHE .C.
By: ~
GREGORY S. HIRTZEL, ESQUIltE
MICHAEL F. SOCHA, ESQUIRE
Attorneys for Defendants
George Sharp, incorrectly identified as
George Sharpe, and Interstate Towing and
Recovery
Date: August 2, 2010
POST & SCHELL, P.C.
BY: GREGORY S. HIRTZEL, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: ghirtzel@postschell.com
I.D. # 56027
BY: MICHAEL F. SOCHA, ESQUIRE
E-MAIL: msocha@postschell.com
I.D. # 200988
.1857 WILLIAM PENN WAY
P.O. BOX 10248
LANCASTER, PA 17605-0248
717-291-4532
LISA A. HARRELL and ROBERT
HARRELL,
Plaintiff,
Attorneys for Defendants
George Sharp, incorrectly identified as George
Sharpe, and Interstate Towing and Recovery
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
vs.
GEORGE SHARPE and INTERSTATE
TOWING AND RECOVERY,
Defendants.
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
NO. 10-2292
DEFENDANTS' ANSWER AND NEW MATTER TO PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT
Defendants George Sharp (incorrectly identified as George Sharpe) and Interstate Towing
and Recovery, by and through their attorneys, Post & Schell, P.C., hereby file the following
Answer and New Matter to Plaintiffs' Complaint and in support thereof aver as follows:
1. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Answering Defendants are without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief to the truth of the averments in this
paragraph and, if relevant, strict proof thereof is demanded.
2. Denied. Defendant, George Sharp, is an adult individual currently residing at 109
Twin Hills Road, Apartment 13, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania 17019.
3. Admitted.
4. Denied. Without a description of the "tow truck" Answering Defendants are
unable to respond to the averments of paragraph 4 of Plaintiffs' Complaint. By way of further
response, it is specifically denied that the vehicle referred to as "Defendant's vehicle" in
Plaintiffs' Complaint was a tow truck. To the contrary, Defendant, George Sharp, was not
operating a tow truck at the time of the alleged accident.
5. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Answering Defendants are without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief to the truth of the averments in this
paragraph and, if relevant, strict proof thereof is demanded.
6. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, Answering
Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief to the truth of the
averments in this paragraph and, if relevant, strict proof thereof is demanded.
7. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
8. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
9. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
10. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
11. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all
allegations of negligence are specifically denied.
COUNT I-NEGLIGENCE
LISA HARRELL V. GEORGE SHARPE
12. Paragraphs 1 through 11, above, are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
13. Paragraph 13 of Plaintiffs' Complaint and its related subparagraphs are denied
pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations of negligence are
specifically denied.
2
14. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). Byway of further response, all
allegations of negligence are specifically denied.
15. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
16. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). Byway of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
17. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). Byway of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
18. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
19. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George Sharp respectfully requests that this Honorable Court
enter judgment in his favor and against Plaintiffs, together with such other relief that this
Honorable Court may deem just and appropriate.
COUNT II-VICARIOUS LIABILITY
LISA HARRELL V. INTERSTATE TOWING AND RECOVERY
20. Paragraphs 1 through 19, above, are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
21. Admitted in part, denied in part. After reasonable investigation, Answering
Defendant is without knowledge as to the truth of the averments of this paragraph as the phrase
"at all material times to this action" is overbroad and capable of several meanings and, if
relevant, strict proof of these allegations is demanded at trial. Byway of further response, it is
admitted that Defendant, George Sharp, was an employee of Interstate Towing and Recovery on
September 2, 2009. However, to the extent that Paragraph 21 of Plaintiffs' Complaint alleges
3
that Defendant George Sharp was in the course and scope of his employment at the time of the
alleged motor vehicle accident, said averment is specifically denied.
22. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
23. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendant, George Sharp, was acting in and
upon Answering Defendant's business and/or within the course and scope of his employment
with Answering Defendant. By way of further response, all allegations of carelessness and
negligence are specifically denied.
24. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). Byway of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
25. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required and
pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
26. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required and
pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
27. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required and
pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
28. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required and
pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
29. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required and
pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
30. Denied as a conclusion of law to which no responsive pleading is required and
pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
4
31. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). Byway of further response, Answering
Defendant is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief to the truth of the
averments in this paragraph and, if relevant, strict proof thereof is demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Interstate Towing and Recovery, respectfully requests that
this Honorable Court enter judgment in its favor and against Plaintiffs, together with such other
relief that this Honorable Court may deem just and appropriate.
COUNT III-LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
ROBERT HARRELL V. GEORGE SHARPS
36. (sic) Paragraphs 1 through 31,above, are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
37. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
38. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George Sharp, respectfully requests that this Honorable Court
enter judgment in his favor and against Plaintiffs, together with such other relief that this
Honorable Court may deem just and appropriate.
COUNT IV-LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
ROBERT HARRELL V. INTERSTATE TOWING AND RECOVERY
39. Paragraphs 1 through 38, above, are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
40. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
41. Denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e). By way of further response, all allegations
of negligence are specifically denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Interstate Towing and Recovery, respectfully requests that
this Honorable Court enter judgment in its favor and against Plaintiffs, together with such other
relief that this Honorable Court may deem just and appropriate.
NEW MATTER
42. Paragraphs 1 through 41 are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
43. To the extent justified by the evidence developed in discovery or the testimony at
the time of trial, Defendant avers that the Plaintiffs have failed to state a claim for which relief
maybe granted.
44. To the extent, justified by the evidence developed in discovery or the testimony at
the time of trial, any injuries and/or damages alleged by the Plaintiffs were the result of
superseding, intervening, and/or independent causes over which Defendants had no control and
in no way participated.
45. To the extent justified by the evidence developed in discovery or the testimony at
the time of trial, Defendants raise all affirmative defenses set forth in Pa.R.C.P. 1030 to the
Plaintiffs' claims, including the legal doctrines of payment, accord and satisfaction, release,
waiver, estoppel, and the statute of limitations.
46. To the extent justified by the evidence developed in discovery or the testimony at
the time of trial, Defendant avers that the injuries and damages alleged by the Plaintiffs were the
result of apre-existing condition unrelated to this accident and/or occurrence.
47. To the extent justified by the evidence developed in discovery or the testimony at
the time of trial, Defendant avers that Plaintiffs failed to mitigate their damages.
6
48. To the extent justified by the evidence developed in discovery or the testimony at
the time of trial, Plaintiffs' recovery in this case, if any, is limited by the provisions of 75 Pa.
C.S.A. Sections 1720 and 1722.
49. Plaintiffs' claims are barred and/or limited by the applicable provisions of the
Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law.
50. To the extent justified by the evidence developed in discovery or the testimony at
the time of trial, Defendant pleads the contributory, causal negligence of the Plaintiffs and the
provisions of the Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Act as a complete or partial bar to any
recovery by the Plaintiff in this action.
51. The past and future medical special damages alleged by Plaintiffs are limited to
fair and reasonable value of the medical bills for treatment rendered in connection with injuries
and damages that were proximately caused by the incident complained of by Plaintiffs, or, the
amount received by Plaintiff's medical care providers in satisfaction of any and all bills for
services rendered, whichever is less. Moorhead v. Crozer Medical Center.
WHEREFORE, Defendants, George Sharp and Interstate Towing and Recovery,
respectfully request that this Honorable Court enter judgment in their favor and against Plaintiffs,
together with such other relief that this Honorable Court may deem just and appropriate.
POST & SCHELL, P.C.
By:
Dated: August 2, 2010 MICHAEL F. SOC ,ESQUIRE
Attorney for Defendants
George Sharp, incorrectly identified as
George Sharpe, and Interstate Towing
and Recovery
7
Re: Lisa A. Harrell and Robert Harrell v. George Sharp and Interstate Towing and
Recovery
VERIFICATION
I, George Sharp, hereby verify that the statements made in the foregoing pleading are true
and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. The undersigned understands
that the statements therein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S., Section 4909, relating
to unsworn falsification to authorities.
DATE: ~ ~~ ~j
BY:
GEOR SHARP
Re: Lisa A. Harrell and Robert Harrell v Gearge Sharp and Interstate Towing ana
Recovery
VERIFICATION
I HEREBY VERIFY that the statements made in the foregoing document are true anc
correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I .understand that any false
~ statements contained herein are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904 relating tc
I unswprn falsification to authorities.
I certify that I am a duly authorized representative of INTERSTATE TOWING AND
~ RECOVERY, and, as such, am authorized to make this Verification on its behalf.
INTERSTATE TOWII~'G AND REC .,.. RY
BY: '
FARRELL
I DATE: ~ ~ ~"~(~ ~
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Lilly A. Torres, an employee of the law offices of Post & Schell, P.C do hereby certify
that I caused a true and correct copy of the foregoing document(s) to be served upon the
following designated person(s) by placing the same in the United States Mail, First Class
Delivery, on the date set forth below.
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
Handler Henning & Rosenberg
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
r----
LILLY A. TO S
~ DATE: August 2, 2010
~.~ ~,,Q~
~, _ 1
-- a~P
r-; ~
:~~. -
~~-- N
rp
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
I. D.#87737 ~. ~ r'
HANDLER, HENNING 8~ ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000 Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: spears(d1HHRLaw.com
LISA A. HARRELL and, IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
ROBERT HARRELL, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
v.
GEORGE SHARPE, and
INTERSTATE TOWING AND
RECOVERY,
Defendants
NO. 10-2292 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
REPLY TO NEW MATTER
AND NOW, come the Plaintiffs, Lisa and Robert Harrell, by and through their
attorneys, HANDLER, HENNING 8~ ROSENBERG, LLP, by Andrew C. Spears,
Esquire, to file the following Reply to New Matter and aver as follows:
42. The averments of this paragraph constitute an incorporation paragraph, to
which no response is required. If a response is required, any and all allegations or
insinuations of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
43. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, any and all allegations or insinuations
of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
44. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, any and all allegations or insinuations
of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
45. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, any and all allegations or insinuations
of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
46. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, any and all allegations or insinuations
of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
47. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, any and all allegations or insinuations
of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
48. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, 75 Pa.C.S.A. Sections 1720 and 1722
speak for themselves. By way of further response, any and all allegations or
insinuations of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
49. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle
Financial Responsibility Law speaks for itself. By way of further response, any and all
allegations or insinuations of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
2
50. The averments of this. paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, the Pennsylvania Comparative
Negligence Act speaks for itself. By way of further response, any and all allegations or
insinuations of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
51. The averments of this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. If a response is required, the case, Moorhead v. Crozer Medical
Center, speaks for itself. By way of further response, any and all allegations or
insinuations of wrongdoing on the part of Plaintiffs are hereby denied.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request that this Honorable Court enter
judgment in their favor and against Defendants in an amount in excess of the
compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, plus enter such
other orders as are equitable and just.
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER, HENNING Sz ROSENBERG, LLP
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
I.D. #87737
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiffs
Date:
3
VERIFICATION
PURSUANT TO PA R.C.P. NO. 1024 (c)
ANDREW C. SPEARS, ESQUIRE, states that he is the attorney for the party
filing the foregoing document; that he makes this affidavit as an attorney, because the
party he represents lacks sufficient knowledge or information upon which to make a
verification and/or because he has greater personal knowledge of the information and
belief than that of the party for whom he makes this affidavit; and that he has sufficient
knowledge or information and belief, based upon his investigation of the matters
averred or denied in the foregoing document; and that this statement is made subject to
the penalties of 18 Pa C.S. §4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Date:
ANDREW C. SPEARS, ESQUIRE
LISA A. HARRELL and,
ROBERT HARRELL,
Plaintiffs
v.
GEORGE SHARPE, and
INTERSTATE TOWING AND
RECOVERY,
Defendants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 10-2292 CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 10th day of August, 2010, I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of
Plaintiffs' Reply To New Matter was served upon the following by depositing in U.S.
Mail;
Date
Michael Socha, Esq.
Post & Schell
1857 William Penn Way
P.O. Box 10248
Lancaster, PA 17605-0248
Very truly yours,
HANDLER, HENNING8~ ROSENBERG, LLP
Andrew C. Spears
CJ.,
1 _
Andrew C. Spears, Esquire
I.D.fr87737
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Li<t?wn Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000 Attorneys for Plaintiffs
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: spear9QHHRLaw.com
LISA A. HA ELL and, IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
ROBERT HARRELL, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintift
V. NO. 10-2292 CIVIL TERM
GEORGE SHARPE, and CIVIL ACTIN - LAW
INTERSTATE TO ING?N AND
RECOVERY,
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please substitute the enclosed Verification for the previous Verification filed with
the Reply To New Matter in this matter.
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSE RG, LLP
By: C' -C
Andrew pears
ACS/tgd
VERIFICATION
The undersigned hereby verges that the statements in the foregoing document are
based upon information which has been furnished to counsel by me and information which
has been gathered by counsel in the preparation of this lawsuit. The language of the
document is of counsel and not my own. I have read the document and to the extent that
it is based upon information which I have given to counsel, it is true and correct to the best
of my knowledge, information and belief. To the extent that the contents of the document
are that of counsel, I have relied upon my counsel in making this Verification. The
undersigned also understands that the statements made therein are made subject to the
penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Oel-
A:L
isa A. arrell
D'
Robert Harrell
Date: aa/*Z /O
LISA A. HARRELL and, IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
ROBERT HARRELL, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
V. NO. 10-2292 CIVIL TERM
GEORGE SHARPE, and CIVIL ACTION - LAW
INTERSTATE TOYA14G AND
RECOVERY,
Deftnolants
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 17th day of August, 2010, 1 hereby certify that a true and correct copy of
Plaintiffs' Praecipe to Substitute Verification was served upon the following by depositing in
U.S. Mail;
Michael Socha, Esq.
Post & Schell
1857 William Penn Way
P.O. Box 10248
Lancaster, PA 17605-0248
HANDLER, HENNING S ROSENBERG, LLP
By:
Andrew C. 787p'ears
ACS/tgd
2
'FILED-OFFiCL
?'` TI1E 'R0TIHI0IV0T,A (`r'
2011 MAY -4 AM II I oo
CIJMBERLA dB Coj,"jI t`
PENNSYLVANIA
Andrew C. Spears
Attorney ID# 87737
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000 Attorney for Plaintiff(s)
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Spears@hhrlaw.com
LISA HARRELL and ROBERT HARRELL IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Cumberland County Court of Common
Pleas COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiff(s)
V.
GEORGE SHARP and INTERSTATE
TOWING AND RECOVERY
Defendant(s)
: NO. 2010-02292
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
PRAECIPE
Please mark the above captioned matter settled and discontinued.
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
Dated: 5/3/11
Andrew C. Spears
Andrew C. Spears
Attorney ID# 87737
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000 Attorney for Plaintiff(s)
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Spears@hhrlaw.com
LISA HARRELL and ROBERT HARRELL
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Cumberland County Court of Common
Pleas COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiff(s)
V.
GEORGE SHARP and INTERSTATE
TOWING AND RECOVERY
Defendant(s)
NO. 2010-02292
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On May 3, 2011, 1 hereby certify that a true and correct copy Praecipe to Discontinue and End
was served upon the following by depositing same in the United States Mail, in Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania:
Michael Socha, Esq.
Post & Schell
1857 William Penn Way
P.O. Box 10248
Lancaster, PA 17605-0248
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
Dated: 5/3/11 ? JZ_?
Andrew C. Spears