HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-2213PAGE 1
REPORT : ZDRDOCT First Judicial District RUN DATE 03/22/12
t USER ID: PMC CIVIL DOCKET REPORT RUN TIME 11:04 AM
CASE ID 111203266
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE NUMBER CASE CAPTION
111203266 SMITH VS KAUFFMAN ETAL
FILING DATE COURT LOCATION
28-DEC-2011 M1 CH
CASE TYPE: MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT
STATUS: ORDER/TRNSF OTHER JURISDICTION
Seq # Assoc Expn Date Type ID
1 APLF A56247
JURY `-°
N 7-1
M CD
Party Name / Address & PhAW No--7 cD
LEVINSON, KEITH t
1730 WELSH ROAD `
PHILADELPHIA PA 19115
(215)969-7400
(215)969-2181 - FAX
2 1 PLF 07131496 SMITH, ROBERT
544 E. WALNUT LANE
PHILADELPHIA PA 19144
3 6 DFT 07131497 KAUFFMAN, ALLEN
5991 ANTHONY HIGHWAY
WAYNESBORO PA 17268
4 6 DFT 07131498 WFM TRANSPORT INC.
101 W. HARRISBURG AVENUE
RHEMS PA 17570
5 TL J286 MOSS, SANDRA M
392 CITY HALL
PHILADELPHIA PA 19107
(215)686-7910
6 ADFT A52927 WEISGOLD, DEAN E
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
1835 MARKET STREET
SUITE 1215
PHILADELPHIA PA 19103
(215)599-0327
(215)599-0322 - FAX
7 6 ADFT A76460 WINDISH, LEONARD A
1835 MARKET ST
SUITE 1215
PHILADELPHIA PA 19103
(215)979-7605
(215)599-0322 - FAX
0
1o3.75 / o/
or?/77
A06 2 7.3 -'5b-3
REPORT : ZDRDOCT First Judicial District
USER ID: PMC CIVIL DOCKET REPORT
CASE ID 111203266
Filing Date / Time Docket Entry
Filing Date / Time Docket Entry
28-DEC-11 10:23:58 ACTIVE CASE
E-Filing Number: 1112043468
28-DEC-11 10:23:58 COMMENCEMENT OF CIVIL ACTION
PAGE 2
RUN DATE 03/22/12
RUN TIME 11:04 AM
Date Entered
Date Entered
28-DEC-11
28-DEC-11
LEVINSON, KEITH
28-DEC-11 10:23:58 COMPLAINT FILED NOTICE GIVEN 28-DEC-11
LEVINSON, KEITH
COMPLAINT WITH NOTICE TO DEFEND WITHIN TWENTY (20) DAYS
AFTER SERVICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 1018.1 FILED.
28-DEC-11 10:23:58 SHERIFF'S SURCHARGE 2 DEFTS 28-DEC-11
LEVINSON, KEITH
28-DEC-11 10:23:58 WAITING TO LIST CASE MGMT CONF 28-DEC-11
LEVINSON, KEITH
17-JAN-12 15:35:45 SHERIFF'S SERVICE 18-JAN-12
LEVINSON, KEITH
DEPUTIZED SERVICE OF PLAINTIFF'S COMPLAINT UPON WFM
TRANSPORT INC. BY SHERIFF OF LANCASTER COUNTY ON
01/09/2012. (FILED ON BEHALF OF ROBERT SMITH)
25-JAN-12 15:11:14 ENTRY OF APPEARANCE FILED 25-JAN-12
WEISGOLD, DEAN E
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE OF LEONARD A WINDISH AND DEAN E
WEISGOLD FILED. (FILED ON BEHALF OF WFM TRANSPORT INC.
AND ALLEN KAUFFMAN)
26-JAN-12 15:18:08 PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS 27-JAN-12
WEISGOLD, DEAN E
46-12013646 PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS TO PLAINTIFF'S
COMPLAINT FILED. RESPONSE DATE: 02/16/2012 (FILED ON
BEHALF OF WFM TRANSPORT INC. AND ALLEN KAUFFMAN)
31-JAN-12 11:47:42 SHERIFF'S SERVICE 31-JAN-12
LEVINSON, KEITH
DEPUTIZED SERVICE OF PLAINTIFF'S COMPLAINT UPON ALLEN
KAUFFMAN BY SHERIFF OF FRANKLIN COUNTY ON 01/23/2012.
(FILED ON BEHALF OF ROBERT SMITH)
16-FEB-12 16:02:30 ANSWER TO PRELIMINARY OBJCTNS 16-FEB-12
LEVINSON, KEITH
46-12013646 ANSWER IN OPPOSITION OF PRELIMINARY
OBJECTIONS FILED. (FILED ON BEHALF OF ROBERT SMITH)
21-FEB-12 10:33:53 BRIEF-PRELIM. OBJECT. FILED 21-FEB-12
WEISGOLD, DEAN E
46-12013646 BRIEF IN SUPPORT OF PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS
FILED. (FILED ON BEHALF OF WFM TRANSPORT INC. AND
REPORT : ZDRDOCT
USER ID: PMC
First Judicial District
CIVIL DOCKET REPORT
CASE ID 111203266
PAGE 3
RUN DATE 03/22/12
RUN TIME 11:04 AM
Filing Date / Time Docket Entry Date Entered
ALLEN KAUFFMAN)
22-FEB-12 14:10:57 PRELIM OBJECTIONS ASSIGNED 22-FEB-12
46-12013646 PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE:
MOSS, SANDRA M. ON DATE: FEBRUARY 22, 2012
02-MAR-12 11:15:21 ORDER/TRNSF OTHER JURISDICTION 02-MAR-12
MOSS, SANDRA M
46-12013646 IT IS ORDERED THAT DEFTS' PRELIMINARY
OBJECTIONS ARE SUSTAINED AND THIS MATTER IS
TRANSFERRED TO THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND
COUNTY. PLTF IS TO BEAR ALL COSTS. BY THE COURT
...MOSS,J 2/28/12
02-MAR-12 11:15:22 NOTICE GIVEN UNDER RULE 236 05-MAR-12
NOTICE GIVEN ON 05-MAR-2012 OF ORDER/TRNSF OTHER
JURISDICTION ENTERED ON 02-MAR-2012.
12-MAR-12 13:46:05 PRAECIPE/TRNSFER OUT OF COUNTY 12-MAR-12
LEVINSON, KEITH
PRAECIPE TO TRANSFER THE ABOVE CAPTIONED MATTER TO
CUMBERLAND COUNTY FILED.
* * * End of Docket * * *
r
Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County
Trial Division
Civil Cover Sheet
PLAINTIFF'S NAME DEFENDANTS NAME
ROBERT SMITH ALLEN KAUFFMAN
PLAINTIFF'S ADDRESS DEFENDANTS ADDRESS
544 E. WALNUT LANE 5991 ANTHONY HIGHWAY
PHILADELPHIA PA 19144 WAYNESBORO PA 17268
PLAINTIFFS NAME DEFENDANTS NAME
WFM TRANSPORT INC.
PLAINTIFFS ADDRESS DEFENDANTS ADDRESS
101 W. HARRISBURG AVENUE
RHEMS PA 17570
PLAINTIFF'S NAME DEFENDANTS NAME
PLAINTIFF'S ADDRESS DEFENDANTS ADDRESS
TOTAL NUMBER OF PLAINTIFFS TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENDANTS CTM IENCEMENT OF ACTION
int ? Petition Action ? Notice of Appeal
1 2
S wnmom Transfer From Other Jurisdictions
?
AMOUNT IN CONTROVERSY COURT PROGRAMS
-
r: .
? Arbitration ? .,MarTbrt. Commerce
? Settlement
? $50,000.00 or less ifi
? Jury 13 ® s5?r?g
q ?r ion Minor Court Appeal
? Minors
,y
® More than $50,000.00 ®Non-Jun, Statutorv Appeals ? W/D/Survival
:.,
;
? Other
.
E
v
CASE TYPE AND COD
''
-
2V - MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDEP,T
STATUTORY BASIS FOR CAUSE OF ACTION
RELATED PENDING CASES (LIST BY CASE CAPTION AND DOCKET NUMBER) FM IS CASE SUBJECT TO
AR
IMM" COORDINATION ORDER?
W
W YES NO
DEC 28 2011
S. GARRETT
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter my appearance on behalf of Plaintiff/Petitioner/Appellant: ROBERT SMITH
Papers may be served at the address set forth below.
NAME OF PLAINTIFFS/PETITIONER'S/APPELLANTS ATTORNEY ADDRESS
KEITH LEVINSON 1730 WELSH ROAD
PHILADELPHIA PA 19115
PHONE NUMBER FAX NUMBER
(215)969-7400 (215)212-9692
SUPREME COURT IDENTIFICATION NO. E-MAIL ADDRESS
56247 boulevardlaw@yahoo.com
SIGNATURE OF FILING ATTORNEY OR PARTY DATE SUBMITTED
KEITH LEVINSON Wednesday, December 28, 2011, 10:23 am
FINAL COPY (Approved by the Prothonotary Clerk)
? i
By: Keith Levinson, Esquire
Identification No.: 56247
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19115
Telephone No.: 215 969-7400
Robert Smith
544 E. Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19144
V.
Allen Kauffman
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
And
WFM Transport Inc.
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rhems, PA 17570
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 the 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. 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.
PHILADELPHIA BAR ASSOCIATION
Lawyer Referral and Information Service
1101 Market Street, l la' Floor
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
(215) 238-6300
f?nnrney for
COURT OF COMM(
OF PHILADELPHIA
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
civil
No.0X)
AVISO
USTED HA SIDO DEMANDADO/A EN CORTE.
Si usted desea defenderse de las demandas que se
presentan mas adelante en ]as siguientes paginas,
debe tomar accibn dentro de los pr6ximos veinte (20)
dfas despuds de la notificaci6n de esta Demanda y
Aviso radicando personalmente o por medio de un
abogado una c comparecencia escrita y radicando en
las Corte por escrito sus defensas de, y objeciones a,
]as demandas presentadas aqua en contra suya. Se le
advierte de que si usted falla de tomar accibn como
se describe anteriormente, el 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
INIVIEDIATAMENTE. SI USTED NO TIENE UN
ABOGADO, LLAME O VAYA A LA SIGUIENTE
OFICINA. ESTA OFICINA PUEDE PROVEERLE
INFORMAC16N A CERCA DE C6M0
CONSEGUIR UN ABOGADO. SI USTED NO
PUEDE PAGAR POR LOS SERVICIOS DE UN
ABOGADO, ES POSIBLE QUE ESTA OFICINA
LE PUEDE A PROVEER INFORMACI6N SOBRE
AGENCIAS QUE OFREZCAN SERVICIOS
LEGALES SIN CARGO BAJO COSTO A
PERSONAS QUE CUALIFICAN.
ASOCIAC16N DE LICENCIADOS DE
FILADELFIA
Servicio De Referencia E. Informacion Legal
One Reading Center
Filadelfia, Pennsylvania 19107
(215) 238-6333
case ID: 111203266
0
KEITH LEVINSON, ESQUIRE
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 56247
1730 WELSH ROAD
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19115
(215) 969-7400
ROBERT SMITH
544 E Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19144
VS.
ALLEN KAUFFMAN
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
And
WFM TRANSPORT INC.
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rhems, PA 17570
NON JURY
ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO.
MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT
1. Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH is an adult individual residing at the above address.
2. Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN, is an adult individual residing at the above address.
3. Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC., is a Corporation and/or other business entity,
organized, existing and/or operating under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania which at all
times material herein regularly did business within the City and County of Philadelphia in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and elsewhere throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with a
business address as set forth above.
4. At all times material herein, Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC. was operating by and
through its agents, servants, workmen and/or employees who were acting in the course of their
employment and within the scope of their authority and/or apparent authority, one of whom was
Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN.
5. On or about February 26, 2010 at or about 7:10 am, Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC.,
Case ID: 111203266
A
owned, controlled and/or maintained a motor vehicle which was controlled and/or operated by
Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN west on the PA Turnpike, Upper Mifflin Township, PA, near
milepost marker 206, in such a careless and/or negligent manner that it was caused to strike a motor
vehicle controlled and/or operated by the Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH which vehicle was then and there
lawfully upon the roadway at the point aforesaid, causing the Plaintiff to suffer severe and permanent
injuries as hereinafter stated.
6. The carelessness and/or negligence of the Defendants, who were acting jointly, severally
and/or singularly, consisted inter alia, of the following:
(a) Operating said vehicle at an excessive speed under the circumstances;
(b) Failing to have said vehicle under proper and adequate control at the time of the
accident;
(c) Failing to give proper and sufficient warning of the approach of said vehicle;
(d) Failing to yield to traffic;
(e) Failing to operate his vehicle as a safe speed given the weather conditions;
(f) Failing to follow at a safe distance.
7. By reason of the aforesaid negligence of the Defendants as hereinbefore alleged, the
Plaintiff suffered severe and permanent injuries to his head, neck, back, arms, legs and body; he
suffered severe and permanent injuries to the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and tissues of
his head, neck, back, aims, legs and body, including but not limited to cervical strain and sprain;
thoracic strain and sprain; lumbosacral strain and sprain; post concussion syndrome; point tenderness
over the bilateral sacroiliac joint; bilateral trapezial fasciitis; myofascial pain syndrome; shoulder
weakness; headaches; contusion of the face; multiple abrasions; central and right sided disc herniation
Case ID: 111203266
at C6/7 impinging on the thecal sac; central C5/6 disc herniation impinging the thecal sac; central disc
bulge 0/4 and C4/5. He suffered severe aches, pains, mental anxiety and anguish and a severe shock
to his entire nervous system and other injuries, the full extent of which is not yet known. He suffered
exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. The Plaintiff suffered internal injuries of an unknown nature,
he suffered severe aches, pains, mental anxiety and anguish and a severe shock to his entire nervous
system and other injuries, the full extent of which is not yet known. The Plaintiff believes and
therefore avers that his injuries are permanent in nature.
8. As a direct and proximate result of Defendant's negligence, the Plaintiff has in the past and
will in the future undergo severe pain and suffering as a result of which he has been in the past and
will in the future be unable to attend to his usual duties and occupation, all to his great financial
detriment and loss.
9. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has been compelled, in order to
effectuate a cure for the aforesaid injuries, to expend large sums of money for medicine and medical
attention and may be required to expend additional sums for the same purpose in the future, including
but not limited to medical bills and/or a workers compensation lien.
10. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has been prevented from attending to
his usual and daily activities and duties, and may be prevented for an indefinite period of time in the
future, all to his great detriment and loss.
11. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has suffered physical pain, mental
anguish and humiliation and he may continue to suffer same for an indefinite period of time in the
future.
Case ID: 111203266
f'
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH demands damages of the Defendants herein,
jointly, severally and/or singularly in a sum in exces,V of Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00).
BY:
, ESQUIRE
Case ID: 111203266
A, .
VERIFICATION
. The undersigned hereby states that he/she is a plaintiff in this action,
and verifies that the statements made in the foregoing Complaint were
drafted by counsel, based upon information gathered in preparation of this
claim, and are true and correct to the best of my direct knowledge or
gathered from facts surrounding the claim by my attorney. The
undersigned understands that the statements therein are made subject to
the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904 relating to unsworn falsifications
to authorities.
r
Case ID: 111203266
By: KEITH LEVINSON
Identification No.: 56247
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19115
Telephone No.: 215-969-7400
Attorney for Plaintiff
ARBITRATION !
Robert Smith COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
V.
December Term, 2011
Allen Kauffman
No.: 003266
PRAECIPE TO TRANSFER TO CUMBERLAND COUNTY
To the Prothonotary:
Kindly transfer the above matter to Cumbefland County.
KEITH LEVINSON, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Plaintiff
Case ID: 111203266
i
0
r
ROBERT SMITH
V.
Plaintiff,
ALLEN KAUFFMAN and
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants.
'Oi.0 i:: ,x
u ?
IN THE COURT'O1~a( a by
PLEAS, PHILA
a •o ?selpm
SLt'I
COUNTY, PENN
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO, 3266
ORDER
AND NOW, t! day of 2012, upon consideration of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections and any response thereto, it is hereby ORDERED as follows:
Defendants' Preliminary Objections based on improper venue are hereby SUSTAINED, and
this matter is TRANSFERRED to the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County. Plaintiff is
to bear all costs of transfer,
BY THFbOURT:
DOCKETED
OOMPLEX LIT CENTER.
Smith Vs Kauffman Eta-ORTRJ
11120326600013
MAN 'X
J. STEWAR
Case ID: 111203266
ConQpl;&W 20126$066
f1PIFC CENT PI IF7C114KIT T(1 Pa P (` P WAA(hl n W11 114AAC nq/nF/7n1,?
ROBERT SMITH
V.
Plaintiff,
ALLEN KAUFFMAN and
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants.
IN THE COUR?41r? Via, by
PLEAS, PHILA
COUNTY, PENNS"'iDECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO. 3266
ORDER
n f.
AND NOW, this,/ day of 2012, upon consideration of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections and any response thereto, it is hereby ORDERED as follows:
Defendants' Preliminary Objections based on improper venue are hereby SUSTAINED, and
this matter is TRANSFERRED to the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County. Plaintiff is
to bear all costs of transfer.
BY THE bOURT:
DOCKETED
OOMPLEX LIT CENtTEF.
Smith Vs Kauffman Eta-ORTRJ
?IIIINIIIIIIIIIII?IIIN
11120326600013
Mk. 'Z
J. STEWM.
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
COPIES SENT PURSUANT TO Pa.R.C.P. 236(b) D. WILLIAMS 03/05/2012
t,,oun of common rleas or rmlaaetpma Lounty
Trial Division
Y
Civil Cover Sheet
PLAINTIFFS NAME DEFENDANTS NAME
ROBERT SMITH ALLEN KAUFFMAN
PLAINTIFFS ADDRESS DEFENDANTS ADDRESS
544 E. WALNUT LANE 5991 ANTHONY HIGHWAY
PHILADELPHIA PA 19144 WAYNESBORO PA 17268
PLAINTIFFS NAME DEFENDANTS NAME
WFM TRANSPORT INC.
PLAINTIFFS ADDRESS DEFENDANTS ADDRESS
101 W. HARRISBURG AVENUE
RHEMS PA 17570
PLAINTIFFS NAME DEFENDANTS NAME
PLAINTIFFS ADDRESS DEFENDANTS ADDRESS
TOTAL NUMBER OF PLAINTIFFS TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENDANTS COMM OF ACTION
2 int Petition Action ? Notice of Appeal
Sjummons? Transfer From Other J urisdictions
AMOUNT IN CONTROVERSY COURTPROGRAMS?"" T
? Arbitration ,Commerce
? $50
000
00 or less Q
' ? Settlement
,
.
,
? Jury
t Minor Court Appeal
? Minors
® More than $50,000.00 Q Non-Jun Statutpry Appeals ? W/D/Survival
? Other ,
..
CASE TYPE AND CODE
2V - MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT
STATUTORY BASIS FOR CAUSE OF ACTION
RELATED PENDING CASES (LIST BY CASE CAPTION AND DOCKET NUMBER) IS CASE SUBJECT TO
A IIYw rw
FROPRO COORDINATION ORDER?
/ 1T YES NO
DEC 28 2011
S. GARRETT
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter my appearance on behalf of Plaintiff/Petitioner/Appellant: ROBERT SMITH
Papers may be served at the address set forth below.
NAME OF PLAINTIFF'S/PETMONER'S/APPELLANTS ATTORNEY ADDRESS
KEITH LEVINSON 1730 WELSH ROAD
PHILADELPHIA PA 19115
PHONE NUMBER FAX NUMBER
(215)969-7400 (215)212-9692
SUPREME COURT IDENTIFICATION NO. E-MAIL ADDRESS
56247 boulevardlaw@yahoo.com
SIGNATURE OF FILING ATTORNEY OR PARTY DATE SUBMITTED
KEITH LEVINSON Wednesday, December 28, 2011, 10:23 am
FINAL COPY (Approved by the Prothonotary Clerk)
By: Keith Levinson, Esquire
Identification No.: 56247
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19115
Telephone No.: 215 969-7400
Robert Smith
544 E. Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19144
V.
Allen Kauffinan
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
And
WFM Transport Inc.
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rhems, PA 17570
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 the 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. 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.
PHILADELPHIA BAR ASSOCIATION
Lawyer Referral and Information Service
1101 Market Street, 1 la` Floor
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107
(215) 238-6300
for
COURT OF COMM(
OF PHILADELPHIA
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
No.
AVISO
USTED HA SIDO DEMANDADO/A EN CORTE.
Si usted desea defenderse de ]as demandas que se
presentan mas adelante en las siguientes paginas,
debe tomar acci6n dentro de los pr6ximos veinte (20)
dias despuds de la notificaci6n de esta Demanda y
Aviso radicando personalmente o por medio de un
abogado una c comparecencia escrita y radicando en
las Corte por escrito sus defensas de, y objeciones a,
las demandas presentadas aqui en contra suya. Se le
advierte de que si usted falla de tomar acci6n como
se describe anteriormente, el 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 VAYA A LA SIGUIENTE
OFICINA. ESTA OFICINA PUEDE PROVEERLE
INFORMAC16N A CERCA DE C6M0
CONSEGUIR UN ABOGADO. SI USTED NO
PUEDE PAGAR POR LOS SERVICIOS DE UN
ABOGADO, ES POSIBLE QUE ESTA OFICINA
LE PUEDE A PROVEER INFORMAC16N SOBRE
AGENCIAS QUE OFREZCAN SERVICIOS
LEGALES SIN CARGO BAJO COSTO A
PERSONAS QUE CUALIFICAN.
ASOCIAC16N DE LICENCIADOS DE
FILADELFIA
Servicio De Referencia E. Informacion Legal
One Reading Center
Filadelfia, Pennsylvania 19107
(215) 238-6333
Case ID: 11.1.203266
KEITH LEVINSON, ESQUIRE
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 56247
1730 WELSH ROAD
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19115
(215) 969-7400
NON JURY
ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF
ROBERT SMITH
544 E Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19144
VS.
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
ALLEN KAUFFMAN
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
And
WFM TRANSPORT INC.
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rhems, PA 17570 NO.
MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT
1. Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH is an adult individual residing at the above address.
2. Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN, is an adult individual residing at the above address.
3. Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC., is a Corporation and/or other business entity,
organized, existing and/or operating under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania which at all
times material herein regularly did business within the City and County of Philadelphia in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and elsewhere throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with a
business address as set forth above.
4. At all times material herein, Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC. was operating by and
through its agents, servants, workmen and/or employees who were acting in the course of their
employment and within the scope of their authority and/or apparent authority, one of whom was
Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN.
5. On or about February 26, 2010 at or about 7:10 am, Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC.,
Case ID: 111203266
owned, controlled and/or maintained a motor vehicle which was controlled and/or operated by
Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN west on the PA Turnpike, Upper Mifflin Township, PA, near
milepost marker 206, in such a careless and/or negligent manner that it was caused to strike a motor
vehicle controlled and/or operated by the Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH which vehicle was then and there
lawfully upon the roadway at the point aforesaid, causing the Plaintiff to suffer severe and permanent
injuries as hereinafter stated.
6. The carelessness and/or negligence of the Defendants, who were acting jointly, severally
and/or singularly, consisted inter alia, of the following:
(a) Operating said vehicle at an excessive speed under the circumstances;
(b) Failing to have said vehicle under. proper and adequate control at the time of the
accident;
(c) Failing to give proper and sufficient warning of the approach of said vehicle;
(d) Failing to yield to traffic;
(e) Failing to operate his vehicle as a safe speed given the weather conditions;
(f) Failing to follow at a safe distance.
7. By reason of the aforesaid negligence of the Defendants as hereinbefore alleged, the
Plaintiff suffered severe and permanent injuries to his head, neck, back, arms, legs and body; he
suffered severe and permanent injuries to the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and tissues of
his head, neck, back, arms, legs and body, including but not limited to cervical strain and sprain;
thoracic strain and sprain; lumbosacral strain and sprain; post concussion syndrome; point tenderness
over the bilateral sacroiliac joint; bilateral trapezial fasciitis; myofascial pain syndrome; shoulder
weakness; headaches; contusion of the face; multiple abrasions; central and right sided disc herniation
Case ID: 11.1.203266
at C6/7 impinging on the thecal sac; central C5/6 disc herniation impinging the thecal sac; central disc
bulge 0/4 and C4/5. He suffered severe aches, pains, mental anxiety and anguish and a severe shock
to his entire nervous system and other injuries, the full extent of which is not yet known. He suffered
exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. The Plaintiff suffered internal injuries of an unknown nature,
he suffered severe aches, pains, mental anxiety and anguish and a severe shock to his entire nervous
system and other injuries, the full extent of which is not yet known. The Plaintiff believes and
therefore avers that his injuries are permanent in nature.
8. As a direct and proximate result of Defendant's negligence, the Plaintiff has in the past and
will in the future undergo severe pain and suffering as a result of which he has been in the past and
will in the future be unable to attend to his usual duties and occupation, all to his great financial
detriment and loss.
9. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has been compelled, in order to
effectuate a cure for the aforesaid injuries, to expend large sums of money for medicine and medical
attention and may be required to expend additional sums for the same purpose in the future, including
but not limited to medical bills and/or a workers compensation lien.
10. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has been prevented from attending to
his usual and daily activities and duties, and may be prevented for an indefinite period of time in the
future, all to his great detriment and loss.
11. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has suffered physical pain, mental
anguish and humiliation and he may continue to suffer same for an indefinite period of time in the
future.
Case ID: 111203266
I
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH demands damages of the Defendants herein,
jointly, severally and/or singularly in a sum in exces? of Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00).
BY:
, ESQUIRE
Case TD: 111203266
VERIFICATION
. The undersigned hereby states that he/she is a plaintiff in this action,
and verifies that the statements made in the foregoing Complaint were
drafted by counsel, based upon information gathered in preparation of this
claim, and are true-and correct to the best of my direct knowledge or
gathered from facts surrounding the claim by my attorney. The
undersigned understands that the statements therein are made subject to
the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904 relating to unsworn falsifications
to authorities.
Case ID: 111203266
SHERIFFS OFFICE
50 NORTH DUKE STREET, P.O. BOX 83480, LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA, 17608-3480 - (717)r299-8200
SHERIFF SERVICE
PROCESS RECEIPT, and AFFIDAVIT of RETURN
NTIFF/S/ 2 r'MI .1,
Robert Smith
3, DEFENDANTS/
WFM Transport Inc
SERVE S. NAME OF INDIVIDUAL, COMP
FmTransport, Inc.
6, ADDRESS (Street or RFD A rtrm
AT 1101 W. Harrisburg Avenue Rhems, PA 17570
ZIP
Now, 20---,l SHERIFF OF LANCASTER COUNTY, PA., do hereby deputize the Sheriff of
County to execute the writ and make return thereof according to law, This deputation being made at the
request and risk of the plaintiff Sheriff of Lancaster County
8. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS OR OTHER INFORMATION THAT WILL ASSIST IN EXPEDITING SERVICE:
From Philadelphia County
NOTE ONL APPLIWLE ON WRIT OF O(FCUTION: N.R. WAIVER OF WATCHMAN -Arty depiny$her*levying upon oraea "any prop" uedef withinwrh may leave same without a watchnun ht cusiosyof
whomweris dIn possesion,ahernatlf*vfaction of levyor attachment WUhouCiMMgyon the part of such deputy onhesheriff toany plafntiMherelnfor any Joss, desirueWnotremovelof any suehproperty
before shcrifrs
shit thereof
9. S ATURE TrORNE OTHER ORIGINATOR Print Name 10. TELEPHONE NUMBER 11. DATE
Keith Levinson i 21 S-969-740,0 01 /04/2012
12. END TICS OF SERVICE COPY TO NAME AND ADDRESS BELOW:(This area must be completed if notice Is to be mailed)
Keith Levinson 1730 Welsh Road Philadelphia PA 19115
, p, r or a IV-1%;S,y9 recespc yr the wn[ NAMt or autnoriZeO LGSV Deputy Or Clerk pate Received 15. Expiration/Hea
or complaint as Indicated above Yvette Turco 717 723-4519 01/04/2012 01/27/2012
16.1 Hereby CERYIFY aand RMR14 at I have personally served, Ave legal evidence o service as own n emar , _1 have exec
shown in "Remarks", the writ or complaint described on the Individual, company, corporation, ate., at the address shown above or on the Individual,
- no Shown above) (Relationship to Defendant)
19. (_J No Service See Remarks Below
20. Address of where serve Compl a on It different than shown above)(Street or RFD, Apartment No., City, 21. Date of Service 22. Time AM yPlp('
Boro,TWP, State and ZIP Code) eaxyrursr
?/mar ' ?? l
23. Attempts Date Miles ep. Inc bate Miles Dep. Int Oate Mlles Dep. lnt Date Miles Dep. int Date Miles Dep. Int
24. Advance Costs 2S. Service Costs 26. Notary Costs 27. Milea /Postaga/N,F 28. Total osts 29. COST uE OR RE U D
R#5853..$150. $36.50 '? • r-. Z 1/157 -
30. Remarks: 1 24
31. AFF MED and subscribed to before me this
34. day of
37.
Prothonotary/Deputy/Notary Public
MY COMMISSION EXPIRES
UZ 'd IS90 'ON
A
V
I V
t
n 50 ANSWER.
20 - (?-e7
32. Signature o p-. herl 33.Date
62
35. Signature o 36: Date
MARK S. R E, SHERIFF OF LANCASTER COUNTY PA
W W 11 ZIOZ .b lupr
r
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorneys for Defendants
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO. 3266
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please enter the appearance of the law firm of Dean E. Weisgold, P.C., Dean E.
Weisgold, Esquire and Leonard A. Windish, Esquire on behalf of defendants, WFM Transport,
Inc. and Allen Kauffman, regarding the above captioned matter.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
DEAN E. WEIS D, ESQUIRE
LEONARD A. WINDISH, ESQUIRE
Attorneys for Defendants
Case ID: 111203266
r
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO. 3266
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire, do hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the within
Entry of Appearance has been served upon all parties to this action on this day of
J zvu?a , 2012 via ECF:
Keith Levinson, Esquire
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, PA 19115
DEAN E. W SCOLD, P.C.
BY:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, ESQUIRE
LEONARD A. WINDISH, ESQUIRE
Attorneys for Defendants
Case ID: 11.1203266
.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, ESQUIRE
LEONARD A. WINDISH, ESQUIRE
IDENTIFICATION NOS. 52927/76460
1835 MARKET STREET, SUITE 1215
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 979-7605
You are hereby notified to plead to the
enclosed preliminary objections within twenty
(20) days from the service hereof.
Leonard A.?Wiindish
Attorney for Defendants
Attorneys for Defendants Allen
Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc.
ROBERT SMITH IN THE COURT OF COMMON
Plaintiff, PLEAS, PHILADELPHIA
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
ALLEN KAUFFMAN and NO. 3266
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants.
DEFENDANTS' PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS TO
PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT
Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc., by and through their attorneys, Dean
E. Weisgold, P.C., hereby make the following Preliminary Objections to the Complaint of Plaintiff
Robert Smith:
1. This lawsuit was filed December 28, 2011, by Plaintiff against Defendants to
recover for alleged personal injuries sustained by Plaintiff allegedly caused when a vehicle
owned by Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. and operated by Defendant Allen Kauffman allegedly
struck Plaintiff's vehicle. A true and correct copy of Plaintiff's Complaint in the instant action is
attached hereto, incorporated herein, and marked as Exhibit "A."
2. According to the Complaint, Defendant Allen Kauffman lives in Waynesboro,
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 1201.3646
Pennsylvania. See Exhibit A, paragraph 2.
Waynesboro is located in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
4. According to the Complaint, Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. has a business
address in Rhems (sic), Pennsylvania. See Exhibit A, paragraph 3
Rheems is located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
6. According to the Complaint, the alleged accident took place on the PA Turnpike
in Upper Mifflin Township, Pennsylvania. See Exhibit A, paragraph 5.
7. Upper Mifflin Township is located in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
The only fact in the Complaint indicating that venue is proper in Philadelphia
County is the bald allegation that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. "regularly did business within
the City and County of Philadelphia". See Exhibit A, paragraph 3.
COUNTI
PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS BASED ON IMPROPER VENUE PURSUANT TO PA.
R. CIV. P. 1028(a)(1)
9. Defendants incorporate by reference paragraphs 1 through 8 above as if same were set
forth fully and at length herein.
10. Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1028(a)(1) permits a party to file
preliminary objections on the basis of improper venue.
11. Rule 1006 (e) states that if a preliminary objection based on improper venue is
sustained, and there is a proper venue within the State, the action shall be transferred to the
appropriate court of that county, with all costs and fees to be paid by the plaintiff.
12. Pursuant to Rule 1006, an action against an individual may be brought in and only
2
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 12013646
in a county in which (1) the individual may be served; (2) the cause of action arose; (3) an
occurrence out of which the cause of action arose took place; or (4) any other county authorized
bylaw. Pa.R.Civ.P. 1006(a)(1).
13. In the instant case, Plaintiff does not allege that Defendant Allen Kauffinan may
be served in Philadelphia County.
14. Rather, Plaintiff alleges that Defendant Allen Kauffman lives in Waynesboro,
Franklin County. See Exhibit A, paragraph 2.
15. Plaintiff does not allege that the cause of action or an occurrence out of which the
cause of action arose took place in Philadelphia County.
16. Rather, Plaintiff alleges that the occurrence out of which the cause of action arose
took place in Upper Mifflin Township, Cumberland County. See Exhibit A, paragraph 5.
17. Therefore, venue is improper in Philadelphia County as to Defendant Allen
Kauffman.
18. Rule 1006 also provides that an action to enforce a joint or several liability against
two or more defendants may be brought against all defendants in which venue may be laid
against any of the defendants. Pa.R.Civ.P. 1006(c)(1).
19. Pursuant to Rule 2179 (a), an action against a corporation may be brought only in
(a) the county where it has its registered office or principal place of business; (b) a county where
it regularly conducts business; (c) the county where the cause of action arose; or (d) a county
where a transaction or occurrence took place out of which the cause of action arose.
20. In the instant case, Plaintiff does not allege that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc.
has its registered office or principal place of business in Philadelphia County or that the cause of
Case ID: 1.1.1.203266
Control No.: 1201.3646
action or transaction arose or took place in Philadelphia County.
21. Rather, Plaintiff alleges that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. "regularly did
business within the City and County of Philadelphia". See Exhibit A, paragraph 3.
22. To determine whether a corporation regularly conducts business in a particular
county, courts consider whether the corporation's contacts with that county are sufficient to
compel it to defend itself there. Singley v. Flier, 851 A.2d 200, 201 (Pa.Super 2004);
Knosnowski v. Ward, 836 A.2d 143, 147 (Pa.Super. 2003).
23. In doing so, courts focus on the nature of the acts the corporation allegedly
performs in that county, which must be assessed as to both their quantity and quality. Gale v.
Mercy Catholic Med. Ctr. Eastwick, 698 A.2d 647, 651-51 (Pa.Super. 1997), Kiting Mathues v.
Tim-Bar Corp., 438 Pa.Super. 231, 234, 652 A.2d 349, 351 (1994) and Purcell v. Bryn Mawr
Hospital, 55 Pa. 237, 246, 579 A.2d 1282, 1286 (1990).
24. The quality of acts are those directly furthering, or essential to, corporate objects;
it does not include incidental acts. Masel v. Glassman, 456 Pa.Super. 41, 689 A.2d 314, 317
(Pas.Super. 1997).
25. The quantity of acts are those so continuous and sufficient to be general or
habitual. Id.; Purcell, supra.
26. "A single act is not enough while each case must depend on its own facts... In
combined form, ... the acts of the corporation must be distinguished: those in `aid of a main
purpose' are collateral and incidental, while `those necessary to its existence' are `direct.'
Purcell, 579 A.d at 1285, quo tin Shambe v. Delaware and Hudson Railroad Co., 288 Pa. 240,
135 A. 755 (1927).
4
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
27. Bald allegations that a defendant regularly conducts business in the selected
forum, without supporting evidence, are insufficient to sustain venue. Schultz v. MMI Products,
Inc., 30 A.3d 1224 (Pa.Super. 2011); Rosenstiehl v. Five Star Appliance Repair, 2010
Phila.Ct.Com.PI.LEXIS 130 (2010); ZiMa v. Beige & Beige, Inc., 2007 Phila.Ct.Com.P1.LEXIS
138 (2007).
28. Plaintiff s bald allegation that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. "regularly did
business within the City and County of Philadelphia" is unsupported by any fact and is not true.
29. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. has locations in Massey, Maryland; Rheems,
Pennsylvania (2); Mount Joy, Pennsylvania; Spring Glen, Pennsylvania; Shippensburg,
Pennsylvania; and Muncy, Pennsylvania. See Affidavit of Jamie H. Rowley, attached hereto as
Exhibit "B".
30. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. has no registered office or place of business in
Philadelphia. See Exhibit B.
31. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. does not pass through Philadelphia in its
corporate endeavors. See Exhibit B.
32. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. does not "regularly [do] business within the City
and County of Philadelphia." See Exhibit B.
33. The cause of action arose in this case arose in Cumberland County. See Exhibit A,
paragraph 5.
34. The occurrence out of which this cause of action arose took place in Cumberland
County. See Exhibit A, paragraph 5.
35. Because there is no basis for venue in Philadelphia County, this action should be
5
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
transferred to the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, where the alleged accident
occurred and where venue is proper. All costs and fees should be paid by Plaintiff.
WHEREFORE, Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc. respectfully
request this Honorable Court to transfer his case to the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland
County.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: ZL-?a
Dean E. Weisgold
Leonard A. Windish
Attorney for Defendants
Allen Kauffman and
WFM Transport, Inc.
6
Case ID: 11.1.203266
Control No.: 1.2013646
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Leonard A. Windish, hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing
Preliminary Objections was served upon the following on January 2-6-; Z012 by ECF:
Keith Levinson, Esquire
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, PA 19115
s/Leonard A. Windish
LEONARD A. WINDISH
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, ESQUIRE
LEONARD A. WINDISH, ESQUIRE
IDENTIFICATION NOS. 52927/76460
1835 MARKET STREET, SUITE 1215
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 979-7605
Attorneys for Defendants Allen
Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc.
ROBERT SMITH IN THE COURT OF COMMON
Plaintiff, PLEAS, PHILADELPHIA
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
ALLEN KAUFFMAN and NO. 3266
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants.
BRIEF IN SUPPORT OF DEFENDANTS'S
PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS TO PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT
Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc., by and through their attorneys, Dean
E. Weisgold, P.C., hereby submit their brief in support of their preliminary objections to the
Complaint of Plaintiff Robert Smith.
1. MATTER BEFORE THE COURT
The matter before the Court is the Preliminary Objections of Defendants to the Complaint.
II. STATEMENT OF QUESTIONS PRESENTED
If venue in this Court is improper because no defendant regularly conducts business there
and the cause of action did not arise there, should the case be transferred?
Suggested Answer: Yes.
III. STATEMENT OF FACTS
This lawsuit was filed December 28, 2011, by Plaintiff against Defendants to recover for
alleged personal injuries sustained by Plaintiff allegedly caused when a vehicle owned by Defendant
Case ID: 11.1203266
Control No.: 12013646
WFM Transport, Inc. and operated by Defendant Allen Kauffinan allegedly struck Plaintiffs vehicle.
A true and correct copy of Plaintiff's Complaint in the instant action is attached to Defendants'
Preliminary Objections as Exhibit "A."
According to the Complaint, Defendant Allen Kauffman lives in Waynesboro,
Waynesboro is located in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. According to the Complaint,
Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. has a business address in Rhems (sic), Pennsylvania. Rheems is
located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. According to the Complaint, the alleged accident
took place on the PA Turnpike in Upper Mifflin Township, Pennsylvania. Upper Mifflin
Township is located in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
The only fact in the Complaint indicating that venue is proper in Philadelphia County is the
bald. allegation that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. "regularly did business within the City and
County of Philadelphia".
Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. has locations in Massey, Maryland; Rheems,
Pennsylvania; Mount Joy, Pennsylvania; Spring Glen, Pennsylvania; Shippensburg,
Pennsylvania; and Muncy, Pennsylvania. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. does not pass through
Philadelphia in its corporate endeavors. In fact, Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. does not
"regularly [do] business within the City and County of Philadelphia."
For the reasons that follow, Defendants' Preliminary Objections to Plaintiff's Complaint
should be sustained.
IV. LEGAL ARGUMENT
Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1028(a)(1) permits a party to file preliminary
objections on the basis of improper venue. Rule 1006 (e) states that if a preliminary objection
2
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 1.2013646
based on improper venue is sustained, and there is a proper venue within the State, the action
shall be transferred to the appropriate court of that county, with all costs and fees to be paid by
the plaintiff.
Pursuant to Rule 1006, an action against an individual may be brought in and only in a
county in which (1) the individual may be served; (2) the cause of action arose; (3) an occurrence
out of which the cause of action arose took place; or (4) any other county authorized by law.
Pa.R.Civ.P. 1006(a)(1).
In the instant case, Plaintiff does not allege that Defendant Allen Kauffman may be
served in Philadelphia County. Rather, Plaintiff alleges that Defendant Allen Kauffman lives in
Waynesboro, Franklin County. Plaintiff does not allege that the cause of action or an occurrence
out of which the cause of action arose took place in Philadelphia County. Rather, Plaintiff
alleges that the occurrence out of which the cause of action arose took place in Upper Mifflin
Township, Cumberland County. Therefore, venue is improper in Philadelphia County as to
Defendant Allen Kauffman.
Rule 1006 also provides that an action to enforce a joint or several liability against two or
more defendants may be brought against all defendants in which venue may be laid against any
of the defendants. Pa.R.Civ.P. 1006(c)(1).
Pursuant to Rule 2179 (a), an action against a corporation may be brought only in (a) the
county where it has its registered office or principal place of business; (b) a county where it
regularly conducts business; (c) the county where the cause of action arose; or (d) a county where
a transaction or occurrence took place out of which the cause of action arose. Kubik v. Route
252, Inc., 762 A.2d 1119 (Pa. Super. 2000).
Case ID: 1H. 203266
Control No.: 12013646
To determine whether a corporation regularly conducts business in a particular county,
courts consider whether the corporation's contacts with that county are sufficient to compel it to
defend itself there. Singley v. Flier, 851 A.2d 200, 201 (Pa.Super 2004); Knosnowski v. Ward,
836 A.2d 143, 147 (Pa.Super. 2003). In doing so, courts focus on the nature of the acts the
corporation allegedly performs in that county, which must be assessed as to both their quantity
and quality. Gale v. Mercy Catholic Med. Ctr. Eastwick, 698 A.2d 647, 651-51 (Pa. Super, 1997),
citing Mathues v. Tim-Bar Corp., 438 Pa.Super. 231, 234, 652 A.2d 349, 351 (1994) and Purcell
v. Bryn Mawr Hospital, 55 Pa. 237, 246, 579 A.2d 1282, 1286 (1990). The quality of acts are
those directly furthering, or essential to, corporate objects; it does not include incidental acts.
Masel v. Glassman, 456 Pa.Super. 41, 689 A.2d 314, 317 (Pas.Super. 1997). The quantity of acts
are those so continuous and sufficient to be general or habitual. Id.; Purcell, supra. "A single act
is not enough while each case must depend on its own facts... In combined form, ... the acts of
the corporation must be distinguished: those in `aid of a main purpose' are collateral and
incidental, while `those necessary to its existence' are `direct.' Purcell, 579 A.2d at 1285, uotin
Shambe v. Delaware and Hudson Railroad Co., 288 Pa. 240, 135 A. 755 (1927).
Bald allegations that a defendant regularly conducts business in the selected forum,
without supporting evidence, are insufficient to sustain venue. Schultz v. MMI Products, Inc., 30
A.3d 1224 (Pa.Super. 2011); Rosenstiehl v. Five Star Appliance Repair, 2010
Phila. Ct.Com.P1.LEXIS 130 (2010); Shifman v. Beige _ & Beier, 2007
Phila. Ct.Com.P1.LEXIS 138 (2007). In Schultz, the Superior Count of Pennsylvania upheld
Judge DiVito's transfer of a construction site accident case from Philadelphia to Lehigh County,
where the accident occurred, for lack of venue:
4
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
[Plaintiffs] offered no evidence whatsoever in support of their mere
bald allegation that "some or all" of the five corporate defendants
regularly conducted business in Philadelphia.
Schultz, 30 A.3d at 1231. Likewise, in Rosensteihl, Judge Overton sustained preliminary
objections and transferred a motor vehicle accident case filed in Philadelphia to Delaware
County, where the accident occurred, due to improper venue:
Plaintiff failed to submit evidence to establish presence in
Philadelphia County.
Rosensteihl, 2010 Phila.Ct.Com.PI.LEXIS 130, * 5. Also, in Shifman, Judge Moss granted
preliminary objections and transferred a premises liability case from Philadelphia to Montgomery
County where the accident occurred:
There are simply no facts to support a Philadelphia County venue.
Shifman, 2007 Phila.Ct.Com.P1.LEXIS 138, *4.
Even some incidental contacts are not enough. In Singlet' v. Flier, 851 A.2d 200
(Pa. Super. 2004), five incidental contacts were not enough to establish that Villanova University
conducts business in Philadelphia. In Jones v. Giant Food Stores, 2001 Phila.Cl.Com.PI.LEXIS
248, Judge Tereshko held that The Patriot News does not regularly conduct business in
Philadelphia despite selling three subscriptions in Philadelphia. In Slaboda v. Maim, 2010
Phila.Ct.Com.P1.LEXIS 266, Judge Allen held that the fact that a defendant corporation that did
three percent of its business in Philadelphia was not enough to establish that it regularly conducts
business in Philadelphia.
Case IUD: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
In the instant case, Plaintiff merely alleges that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc.
"regularly did business within the City and County of Philadelphia." This is unsupported by any
fact and is not true. Plaintiff has not and cannot offer any evidence that Defendant WFM
Transport, Inc. regularly conducts business in Philadelphia. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. has
attached the affidavit of its Chief Administrative Officer to its Preliminary Objections. This
affidavit establishes the facts that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. does not have a registered
office or principal place of business in Philadelphia County and does not regularly conduct
business in Philadelphia County.
The cause of action or transactions did not arise or take place in Philadelphia County.
Rather, the occurrence out of which the cause of action arose took place in Cumberland County.
Philadelphia has no connection with this dispute at all. All of the fact witnesses would be
located in Central Pennsylvania, where the accident occurred and where Defendants reside and
do business. WFM Transport, Inc. conducts no business whatsoever in Philadelphia County.
It would simply be unfair and costly for Defendants to be forced to defend this case
involving a motor vehicle accident in a forum in Philadelphia County at least two and one half
hours from Defendant WFM Transport, Inc.'s principal place of business, Defendant Allen
Kauffinan's residence and where the cause of action arose. Other than Plaintiff's bald and
unsupported allegation that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. "regularly did business within the
City and County of Philadelphia", there is no conceivable basis set forth in the complaint as to
why this case should have been filed in Philadelphia County.
Because venue clearly is improper in Philadelphia County, this action should be
transferred to the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County where venue is proper. All
6
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 12013646
costs and fees should be paid by Plaintiff.
V. CONCLUSION
For all of the reasons stated above, Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc.
respectfully request this Honorable Court to transfer this case to the Court of Common Pleas of
Cumberland County.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY.
Dean E. Weisgold
Leonard A. Windish
Attorney for Defendants
Allen Kauffman and
WFM Transport, Inc.
7
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
EXHIBIT A
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 1201.3646
KEITH LEVINSON ESQUIRE
IDENTMCATION CRUDER: 56247
1730 WELSH ROAD
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19115
(215) 969-7400
ROBERT MI
544 E Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19144
vs.
ALLEN KAUFFMAN
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
And .
WFM TRANSPORT INC,
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rhems, PA 17570
NON JURY
ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO.
MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT
1, Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH is an adult individual residing at the above address.
2. Defendant, ALLEN ICAUFFMAN, is an adult individual residing at the above address,
3. Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC., is a Corporation and/or other business entity,
organized, existing and/or operating under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania which at all
times material herein regularly did business within the City and County of Philadelphia in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and elsewhere throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with a
business address as set forth above.
4. At all times material herein, Defendant, WPM TRANSPORT INC, was operating by and
through its agents, servants, workmen and/or employees who were acting in the course of their
employment and within the scope of theft- authority and/or apparent authority, one of whom was
Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN.
5. On or about February 26, 2010 at or about 7:10 am, Defendant, WFM TRANSPORT INC.,
Case ID: 111203266
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
owned, controlled and/or maintained a motor vehicle which was controlled and/or operated by
Defendant, ALLEN KAUFFMAN west on the PA Turnpike, Upper Mifflin Township, PA, near
milepost marker 206, in such a careless and/or negligent manner that it was caused to strike a motor
vehicle controlled and/or operated by the Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH which vehicle was then and there
lawfully upon the roadway at the point aforesaid, causing the Plaintiff to suffer severe and permanent
injuries as hereinafter stated.
6. The carelessness and/or negligence of the Defendants, who were acting jointly, severally
and/or singularly, consisted inter alia, of the following;
(a) Operating said vehicle at an excessive speed under the circumstances;
(b) Failing to have said vehicle under; proper and adequate control at the time of the
accident;
(c) Failing to give proper and sufficient warning of the approach of said vehicle;
(d) Failing to yield to traffic;
(e) Failing to operate his vehicle as a safe speed given the weather conditions;
(f) Failing to follow at a safe distance.
7. By reason of the aforesaid negligence of the Defendants as hereinbefore alleged, the
Plaintiff` suffered severe and permanent injuries to his head, nook, back, arms, legs and body; he
suffered severe and permanent Injuries to the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and tissues of
his head, neck, back, arms, legs and body, including but not limited to cervical strain and sprain;
thoracic strain and sprain; lumbosaeral strain and sprain; post concussion syndrome; point tenderness
over the bilateral sacroiliac joint; bilateral trapezial faseiitis; myofasclal pain syndrome; shoulder
weakness; headaches; contusion of the face; multiple abrasions; central and right sided disc herniation
Case ID: 111203266
Case ID: 1.11.203266
Control No.: 12013646
at C617 impinging on the theoal sac; central C516 disc herniation impinging the theoal sec; central disc
bulge C3/4 and C4/5. He suffered severe aches, pains, mental anxiety and anguish and a severe shock
to his entire nervous system and other injuries, the full extent of which is not yet known, He suffered
exacerbation of pre-existing conditions, The Plaintiff suffered internal JWurles of an unknown nature,
he suffered severe aches, pains, mental anxiety and anguish and a severe shook to his entire nervous
system and other injuries, the hall extent of which is not yet known, The Plaintiff believes and
therefore avers that his injuries are permanent in nature.
8. As a direct and proximate result of Defendant's negligence, the Plaintiff has in the past and
will in the fixture undergo severe pain and suffering as a result of which he has been in the past and
will in the future be unable to attend .to his usual duties and occupation, all to his great financial
detriment and loss.
9. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has been compelled, in order to
effectuate a cure for the aforesaid injudes, to expend large sums of money for medicine and medical
attention and may be required to expend additional sums for the same purpose in the future, including
but not limited to medical bills and/or a workers compensation lien,
10. Asa result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has been prevented from attending to
his usual and daily activities and duties, and may be prevented for an indefinite period of time in the
future, all to his great detriment and loss.
11. As a result of the aforesaid occurrence, the Plaintiff has suffered physical pain, mental
anguish and humiliation and he may continue to suffer some for an indefinite period of time in the
future.
Case ID: 111203266
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
WHERBFORE, Plaintiff, ROBERT SMITH demands damages of the Defendants herein,
jointly, severally and/or singularly in a sum in exoesy of Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00),
Case ID: 111203266
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
VE IAT ION
The undersigned hereby states that he/she is a plaintiff In this action,
and verifies that the statements made In the foregoing Complaint were
drafted by counsel, based upon Information gathered In preparation of this
claim, and are true. and correct to the best of my direct knowledge or
gathered from facts surrounding the claim by my attorney. The
undersigned understands that the statements therein are made subject to
the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904 relating to unsworn falsifications
to authorities.
Case ID: 111203266
Case ID: 1112032661
Control No.: 120136461
EXHIBIT B
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
ROBERT SMITH IN THE COURT OF COMMON
Plaintiff, PLEAS, PHILADELPHIA
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
ALLEN KAUFFMAN and
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants.
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO. 3266
AFFIDAVIT OF JAMIE H. ROWLEY
Jamie H. Rowley swears:
1. I am employed as Chief Administrative Officer by Wengers Feed Mill, Inc.
2. Drivers for WFM Transport, Inc. are employed by Wenger Feed Mill, Inc. and leased to
WFM Transport, Inc.
3. I am familiar with the captioned action and have reviewed Plaintiffs Complaint.
4. Defendant Allen Kaufman lives in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania.
5. Waynesboro is located in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
6. WFM Transport, Inc. has a business address in Rheems, Pennsylvania.
7. Rheems is located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
8. According to the Complaint, the alleged accident took place on the Pennsylvania
Turnpike in Upper Mifflin Township, Pennsylvania.
9. Upper Mifflin Township is located in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
10. WFM Transport, Inc. has locations only in Massey, Maryland; Rheems, Pennsylvania
(2); Mount Joy, Pennsylvania; Spring Glen, Pennsylvania; Shippensburg, Pennsylvania;
and Muncy, Pennsylvania.
11. WFM Transport, Inc. has no registered office or place of business in Philadelphia.
12. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. does not pass through Philadelphia in pursuit of its
corporate endeavors.
13. Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. does not "regularly [do] business within the City and
County of Philadelphia."
1 Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
14. In fact, WFM Transport, Inc. makes no deliveries in Philadelphia and has no customers in
Philadelphia.
The foregoing statements made by me are hue, to the best of my knowledge. I am aware
that if any of the foregoing statements made by me are willfully false, I am subject to
punishment, including liability for damages to any other person injured as a consequence of this
filing.
By;
March 25 2015
2 Case 1D: 111.203266
SWORN TO AND SUBSCRIBED
BEFORE ME THIS ?? DAY
OF 20112.
COMMOM M OP PENNSYLVANL4
NotaMU Seal
Sherry D. Rem, Notary Publk
Mount my YWp., LmCaster county
Me eea, v v ?
Control No.: 1201.3646
KEITH LEVINSON, ESQUIRE
Attorney I.D. No. 56247
Boulevard Law Center
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, PA 19115
ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF,
ROBERT SMITH
ROBERT SMITH
544 E. Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Plaintiff
VS.
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
ALLEN KAUFFMAN
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
Defendant
and
NO. 3266
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rheems, PA 17570
Defendant
RESPONSE OF PLAINTIFF ROBERT SMITH TO PRELIMINARY
OBJECTIONS TO PLAINTIFF'S COMPLAINT
Robert Smith (hereinafter "Plaintiff") hereby responds to Preliminary Objections
filed by Allen Kauffman (hereinafter "Defendant" and/or "Kauffman") and WFM
Transport, Inc. (hereinafter "Defendant" and/or "WFM Transport"):
1. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
2. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 1201.3646
7. Admitted.
8. Denied. The averments contained in the corresponding paragraph of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections are conclusions of law, for which no responsive pleading
is required under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
COUNT I
PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS BASED ON IMPROPER VENUE
PURSUANT TO PA.R.CIV. P 1028(a)(1)
9. Plaintiff incorporates by reference responses to Paragraphs 1 through 8 above as
though same were set forth fully and at length.
10. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced Rule speaks for itself.
11. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced Rule speaks for itself.
12. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced Rule speaks for itself.
13. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
14. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
15. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
16. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
17. Denied. The averments contained in the corresponding paragraph of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections are conclusions of law, for which no responsive pleading
is required under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
18. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced Rule speaks for itself.
19. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced Rule speaks for itself.
20. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
21. Admitted, to the extent that Plaintiff's Complaint speaks for itself.
22. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced decisions speak for themselves.
23. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced decisions speak for themselves.
24. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced decision speaks for itself.
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 1.2013646
25. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced decisions speak for themselves.
26. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced decision speaks for itself.
27. Admitted, to the extent that the referenced decisions speak for themselves.
28. Denied. The averments contained in the corresponding paragraph of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections are conclusions of law, for which no responsive pleading
is required under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
29. Denied. Plaintiff lacks sufficient information and knowledge regarding the
averments contained in the corresponding paragraph to form a belief as to their
truth or falsehood.
30. Denied. Plaintiff lacks sufficient information and knowledge regarding the
averments contained in the corresponding paragraph to form a belief as to their
truth or falsehood.
31. Denied. Plaintiff lacks sufficient information and knowledge regarding the
averments contained in the corresponding paragraph to form a belief as to their
truth or falsehood.
32. Denied. The averments contained in the corresponding paragraph of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections are conclusions of law, for which no responsive pleading
is required under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure. By way of further
response, Plaintiff submits that Defendant WFM Transport, Inc. regularly
advertises via the internet (e.g., see Exhibit Two of Memorandum of Law in
Support of Plaintiff's Response to Preliminary Objections), which reaches
residents of Philadelphia and therefore does constitute doing business within
Philadelphia County.
33. Denied. The averments contained in the corresponding paragraph of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections are conclusions of law, for which no responsive pleading
is required under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
34. Denied. The averments contained in the corresponding paragraph of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections are conclusions of law, for which no responsive pleading
is required under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
35. Denied. The averments contained in the corresponding paragraph of Defendants'
Preliminary Objections are conclusions of law, for which no responsive pleading
is required under the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure.
Case ID: H ] 203266
Control No.: 12013646
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff respectfully requests that this Honorable Court overrule
Defendants' Preliminary Objections and enter the Order in the form proposed.
YResp tful ly submitted,
DATE: ?`(u 1 `? UA N. COHEN ESQUIRE
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
KEITH LEVINSON, ESQUIRE
Attorney I.D. No. 56247
Boulevard Law Center
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, PA 19115
ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF,
ROBERT SMITH
ROBERT SMITH
544 E. Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Plaintiff
VS.
ALLEN KAUFFMAN
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
Defendant
and
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rheems, PA 17570
Defendant
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO. 3266
MEMORANDUM OF LAW IN SUPPORT OF PLAINTIFF ROBERT
SMITH'S RESPONSE TO PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS TO
PLAINTIFF'S COMPLAINT
Robert Smith (hereinafter ("Plaintiff'), by and through his undersigned counsel,
hereby files this memorandum of law in support of his response to Preliminary
Objections filed by Allen Kauffman (hereinafter "Defendant" and/or "Kauffman") and
WFM Transport, Inc. (hereinafter "Defendant" and/or "WFM Transport") through their
counsel.
1. MATTER BEFORE THE COURT
The matter before the Court is the Preliminary Objections filed by Defendants
Kauffman and WFM Transport.
Case ID: 1 1 1 203266
Control No.: 12013646
II. STATEMENT OF QUESTIONS PRESENTED
Whether Defendants' Preliminary Objections on grounds of improper venue with
the Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County, should be granted
Suggested Answer: No
III. STATEMENT OF FACTS
On December 28, 2011 the Plaintiff filed a Civil Complaint in the Court of
Common Pleas, Philadelphia County (Exhibit A (Civil Complaint filed by Plaintiff
against Defendants Kauffman and WFM Transport) of "Brief in Support of Defendant's
Preliminary Objections to Plaintiffs' Complaint" (hereinafter "Defendants' Brief')). The
Complaint alleged in relevant part, that:
i) Plaintiff is an adult individual who resides in Philadelphia, PA (Paragraph 1
of Exhibit A of Defendants' Brief);
ii) Defendant Kauffman is an adult individual residing in Waynesboro, PA
(Paragraph 2 of Exhibit A of Defendants' Brief);
iii) Defendant WFM Corporation is located in Rheems, PA and regularly
conducts business throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including the
City and County of Philadelphia (Paragraph 3 of Exhibit A of Defendants' Brief);
iv) Defendant Kauffman was an agent, servant, workman and/or employee of
Defendant WFM Transport and was acting within the scope of his authority
and/or apparent authority on or about February 26, 2010, when a motor vehicle
accident, which led to the filing of the instant lawsuit, occurred (Paragraph 4 of
Exhibit A of Defendants' Brief);
2
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
v) at approximately 7:10 A.M. on February 26, 2010, Defendant Kauffman
negligently operated a motor vehicle, owned or controlled by Defendant WFM
Corporation, which crashed into a motor vehicle controlled and/or operated by
Plaintiff on the Pennsylvania Turnpike near milepost marker 206, while
Defendant Kauffmann was proceeding west in Upper Mifflin Township, causing
Plaintiff various injuries (Paragraphs 5-11 of Exhibit A of Defendants' Brief); and
vi) Plaintiff therefore sought damages, jointly, severally and/or singularly, in excess
of $50,000.00, against both Defendants (final paragraph of Exhibit A (Plaintiff's
request for relief) of Defendants' Brief).
Waynesboro, PA is located in Franklin County, Pennsylvania and Upper Mifflin
Township is located in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania (Paragraphs 5 and 7 of
"Defendants' Preliminary Objections to Plaintiffs' Complaint" (hereinafter "Preliminary
Objections")).
Defendant WFM Corporation is a trucking company, with a business address in
Rheems, Lancaster County, PA, and was founded and incorporated in Pennsylvania in
1999 (Paragraph 5 of Preliminary Objections).
See, also, Exhibit One (http://www.allbusiness.com/companyprofile/Wfin-Transport-
Inc/6D9605712C6B7CF8F4..., printed 2/15/2012).
Wengers Feed Mill, Inc. leases trucks to Defendant WFM Corporation, which
employs drivers that operate these trucks (Exhibit B (Affidavit of Jamie H. Rowley) of
Defendants' Brief). These trucks deliver a variety of cargo, including general freight
metal, sheets, coils, rolls, fresh produce, grain, feed, hay, commodities dry bulk,
refrigerated food, and beverages.
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
Exhibit Two (httt)://www.truckdriver.com/truckina-compm-
directoiv/ShowDOTCo.cfin7CENSUS N... (printed 2/15/2012).
Although located in Rheems, PA, a search of the internet reveals that Defendant
WFM Corporation recruits drivers from all over the nation (Exhibit Two). .
On or about January 27, 2012 Defendants, through counsel, filed Preliminary
Objections to Plaintiffs Complaint on grounds of improper venue, seeking transfer of the
lawsuit from the Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County to the Court of Common
Pleas, Cumberland County (Preliminary Objections). Defendants averred that venue was
improper as to Defendant Kauffman, as Kauffman resided in Franklin County and was
not served in Philadelphia County, and because the cause of action arose in Cumberland
County (Paragraphs 9-17 of Preliminary Objections). With respect to Defendant WFM
Transport, Defendants averred that venue in Philadelphia was improper due to the fact
that Plaintiff did not allege that the company had a registered office or principal place of
business in Philadelphia, the cause of action did not arise in Philadelphia, and there was
insufficient evidence to establish that the company regularly conducted business in
Philadelphia (Paragraphs 18-32 of Preliminary Objections). In support of these
averments, Defendants relied upon an affidavit prepared by Jamie H. Rowley, Chief
Administrative Officer of Wenger Feed Mill, Inc. (Paragraphs 29-32 of Preliminary
Objections; Exhibit B of Defendants' Brief). In her affidavit Ms. Rowley averred that:
i) Defendant WFM Transport has locations in Massey, MD; Rheems, PA;
Mount Joy, PA; Spring Glen, PA; Shippensburg, PA, and Muncy, PA (Paragraph
29 of Preliminary Objections; Paragraph 10 of Exhibit B of Defendants' Brief);
ii) Defendant WFM Transport has no registered office or place of business in
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 12013646
Philadelphia (Paragraph 30 of Preliminary Objections; Paragraph 11 of Exhibit B
of Defendants' Brief);
iii) Defendant WFM Transport does not pass through Philadelphia in its corporate
endeavors (Paragraph 31 of Preliminary Objections; Paragraph 12 of Exhibit B of
Defendants' Brief); and
iv) Defendant WFM Transport does not regularly conduct business in Philadelphia
(Paragraph 32 of Preliminary Objections; Paragraph 13 of Exhibit B of
Defendants' Brief).
Citing Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure (Pa.R.C.P. 1006(c)(1) for the
proposition that where there are multiple defendants in an action seeking to enforce joint
and several liability, venue is proper in any county for all defendants provided that it lies
against one of the defendants. Defendants therefore asserted that the lawsuit should be
transferred from Philadelphia County to Cumberland County, where the cause of action
arose (Paragraphs 18 and 35 of Preliminary Objections).
As discussed infra, Plaintiff respectfully submits that Defendants' Preliminary
Objections should be overruled, as venue in Philadelphia County is proper.
W. LEGAL ARGUMENT
Pa.R.C.P. 1028(a) (Preliminary Objections) provides:
(a) Preliminary objections may be filed by any party to any pleading and are limited to
the following grounds:
(1) lack of jurisdiction over the subject matter of the action or the
person of the defendant, improper venue or improper form or service of
a writ of summons or a complaint;
Note: Of the three grounds available to challenge venue, only
improper venue may be raised by preliminary objection as provided by
Rule 1006(e). Forum non conveniens and inability to hold a fair and
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 1201.3646
impartial trial are raised by petition as provided by Rule 1006(d)(1)
and (2).
See Rule of Appellate Procedure 311(b) for interlocutory appeals as
of right from orders sustaining jurisdiction and venue.
(2) failure of a pleading to conform to law or rule of court or
inclusion of scandalous or impertinent matter;
(3) insufficient specificity in a pleading;
(4) legal insufficiency of a pleading (demurrer);
Note: The defense of the bar of a statute of frauds or statute of
limitations can be asserted only in a responsive pleading as new
matter under Rule 1030.
(5) lack of capacity to sue, nonjoinder of a necessary party or
misjoinder of a cause of action;
(6) pendency of a prior action or agreement for alternative dispute
resolution;
Note: An agreement to arbitrate may be asserted by preliminary
objection or by petition to compel arbitration pursuant to the
Uniform Arbitration Act, 42 Pa.C.S. § 7304, or the common law, 42
Pa.C.S. § 7342(a).
(7) failure to exercise or exhaust a statutory remedy, and
(8) full, complete and adequate non-statutory remedy at law.
Preliminary objections should only be granted in cases that are clear and free from
doubt. Gall v. Hammer, 420 Pa. Super. 512, 514, 617 A.2d 23, 24 (1992), citing Rivera
v. Philadelphia Theological Seminary of St. Charles Boffomeo, Inc., 407 Pa. Super. 157,
595 A.2d 172 (1991); Stein v. Richardson, 302 Pa. Super. 124, 448 A.2d 558 (1982).
As discussed supra, Defendants object to venue in this Court, with respect to both
Defendants Kauffman and WFM Transport.. A plaintiff's choice of venue should be
given great weight and deference, and a displeased defendant has the burden of proof
6
Case ID: 1] 1203266
Control No.: 12013646
when asserting a challenge to venue. Fimple v. Sullivan, 2008 Phila. Ct. Com. Pl. LEXIS
[*2 - *3] (2008), aff d without opinion, Fimple v. Sullivan, 986 A.2d 1289 (Pa. Super. Ct.
2009), citin Deutschbaueer v. Barakat, 2002 Pa. Super. 401, 814 A.2d 246, 248 (Pa.
Super. 2002). See, also, Silver v. Thompson, 2011 Pa. Super. 114, 26 A.2d 514, 516 (Pa.
Super. Ct. 2011), citing Masel v. Glassman, 456 Pa. Super. 41, 689 A.2d 314, 316 (Pa.
Super. 1997).
Venue with regard to Defendant Kauffman is governed, in relevant part, by
Pa.R.C.P. 1006(a)(1), which provides:
(a) Except as otherwise provided by subdivisions (a.1), (b) and (c) of this rule, an action
against an individual may be brought in and only in a county in which
(1) the individual may be served or in which the cause of action arose or where a
transaction or occurrence took place out of which the cause of action arose or in any other
county authorized by law, or...
Pa.R.C.P. 402(a) in turn provides:
Rule 402. Manner of Service. Acceptance of Service
(a) Original process may be served
(1) by handing a copy to the defendant; or
(2) by handing a copy
(i) at the residence of the defendant to an adult member of the
family with whom he resides; but if no adult member of the family is
found, then to an adult person in charge of such residence; or
(ii) at the residence of the defendant to the clerk or manager of the
hotel, inn, apartment house, boarding house or other place of lodging
at which he resides; or
(iii) at any office or usual place of business of the defendant to
his agent or to the person for the time being in charge thereof.
As discussed in Defendants' Brief, the Complaint did not allege that Defendant
Kauffman could be served in Philadelphia County, but rather noted that he resided in
Case fl): 111203266
Control No.: 1201.3646
Waynesboro in Franklin County. Furthermore, Defendants correctly note that Plaintiff
did not allege that the cause of action or transaction or occurrence out of which the cause
of action arose occurred in Philadelphia County, but rather alleged that it arose in Upper
Mifflin Township, Cumberland County. Therefore, venue, against Defendant Kauffman
alone, admittedly does not lie in Philadelphia County.
However, as mentioned above, the Complaint asserts joint and several liability
against both Defendant Kauffman and Defendant WFM Transport. Under Pa.R.C.P.
1006(c)(1), as long as venue is proper against one of the Defendants, it is proper as to all
of them. Venue, with respect to WFM Transport, is governed by Pa.R.C.P. 2179(a)
(venue with respect to corporations), which provides:
Rule 2179. Venue
(a) Except as otherwise provided by an Act of Assembly, by Rule 1006(a. l) or by
subdivision (b) of this rule, a personal action against a corporation or similar entity may
be brought in and only in
(1) the county where its registered office or principal place of
business is located;
(2) a county where it regularly conducts business;
(3) the county where the cause of action arose;
(4) a county where a transaction or occurrence took place out of which
the cause of action arose, or
(5) a county where the property or a part of the property which is the
subject matter of the action is located provided that equitable relief
is sought with respect to the property.
Note; Rule 1006(a. l) governs venue in actions for medical
professional liability.
As discussed in Defendants' brief, Plaintiff s Complaint did not allege that
Defendant WFM Corporation had a registered office or principal place of business in
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
Philadelphia County, did not allege that the cause of action or transaction or occurrence
out of which the cause of action arose was in Philadelphia County, and did not allege a
property interest in Philadelphia that is the subject matter of the lawsuit. However,
Plaintiff does submit that WFM Corporation regularly conducts business in Philadelphia
County.
Courts employ a quality-quantity analysis to determine whether a corporation or
partnership regularly conducts business in a county. Zampana-Barry v. Donaghue, 2007
Pa. Super. 60, 921 A.2d 500, 5003 (2007), appeal denied, Zampana Barry v. Donaghue,
595 Pa. 709, 940 A. 2d 366 (2007). This means that a business entity must perform acts
in a county of sufficient quality and quantity before venue in that county is established.
Id. Quality of act will be found if the entity performs acts that are essential to its business
objective. Id. Quantity of acts are acts sufficiently continuous as to be considered
habitual. Id at 504.
A review of the record indicates that both the quality and quantity of acts
performed by Defendant WFM Corporation were sufficient to confer venue in this Court.
As discussed at length above, Defendant WFM Corporation is a substantial trucking
company, based in Pennsylvania, and advertises nationwide on the intereet through web
sites such as TruckDriver.com in an effort to hire qualified truck drivers (see Exhibit
Two). This advertising reaches out to residents, including those in Philadelphia County.
Plaintiff submits that these activities are essential to Defendant WFM Corporation's
existence as a company, and that business from Philadelphia significantly contributes to
Defendant's stream of revenue. Likewise, the quantity of these acts are sufficiently
continuous so as to be considered habitual, as Defendant continuously advertises itself as
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
a trucking company on the internet, and these advertisements reach necessarily reach
residents of Philadelphia County.
Given these circumstances it is Plaintiff's position that venue in this Court is
proper as to WFM Corporation. As Plaintiff's Complaint alleges joint and several
liability against all defendants, this necessarily renders venue over Kauffman proper as
well.
Since venue is proper in Philadelphia County, Defendants' preliminary objections
should be overruled.
V. CONCLUSION
For the above reasons, the Plaintiff respectfully requests this Honorable Court to
overrule Defendants' preliminary objections.
DATE: I 1
io
xbmitted,
OHEN, ESQUIRE
Case 1D: 11 ] 203266
Control No.: 12013646
VERIFICATION
I, Joshua N. Cohen, Esquire, verify that I am an attorney within the law firm of
Plaintiff s counsel, Keith Levinson, Esquire, in the foregoing action, that I am authorized
to make this verification on behalf of the Plaintiff, Robert Smith, and that the facts set
forth in the foregoing Response to Preliminary Objections to Plaintiffs Complaint are
true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief. I further
understand that false statements made herein are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. §
4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
DATE: ?''! VL
*6SHUAA N. COHEN, ESQUIRE
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
KEITH LEVINSON,
Attorney I.D. No. 56247
Boulevard Law Center
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, PA 19115
ROBERT SMITH
544 E. Walnut Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Plaintiff
VS.
ALLEN KAUFFMAN
5991 Anthony Highway
Waynesboro, PA 17268
Defendant
and
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
101 W. Harrisburg Avenue
Rheems, PA 17570
Defendant
ESQUIRE ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF,
ROBERT SMITH
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
NO. 3266
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Joshua N. Cohen, Esquire, an attorney within the law firm of Keith Levinson,
Esquire, counsel for the Plaintiff, Robert Smith, hereby certifies that on this day
of February, 2012, the foregoing Response to Preliminary Objections to Plaintiff s
Complaint was submitted electronically and is available for viewing and downloading
from the Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County Electronic Filing System. Service
is thereby made on counsel for Defendants, who is registered to file electronically with
the Philadelphia Courts; otherwise service will be made by way of EMAIL and/or first
class mail postage prepaid, as follows::
COUNSEL FOR DEFENDANTS
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Law Offices of Dean E. Weisgold, P.C.
1835 Market Street
Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
G1 ?
JOSHUA N. COHEN, ESQUIRE
Case ID: 11.1.203266
Control No.: 12013646
FKED
21 FEB 2012 10:33 am
Coil"Mi iisi i0tt
D. DADDAZIO
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, ESQUIRE
LEONARD A. WINDISH, ESQUIRE
IDENTIFICATION NOS. 52927/76460
1835 MARKET STREET, SUITE 1215
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 979-7605
Attorneys for Defendants Allen
Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc.
ROBERT SMITH IN THE COURT OF COMMON
Plaintiff, PLEAS, PHILADELPHIA
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
DECEMBER TERM, 2011
ALLEN KAUFFMAN and NO. 3266
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants.
DEFENDANTS' REPLY BRIEF
IN SUPPORT OF
PRELIMINARY OBJECTIONS TO PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT
Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc., by and through their attorneys, Dean
E. Weisgold, RC., hereby submit their reply brief in support of their preliminary objections to the
Complaint of Plaintiff Robert Smith.
1. MATTER BEFORE THE COURT
The matter before the Court is the Preliminary Objections of Defendants to the Complaint.
II. STATEMENT OF QUESTIONS PRESENTED
If venue in this Court is improper because no defendant regularly conducts business there
and the cause of action did not arise there, should the case be transferred?
Suggested Answer: Yes.
III. STATEMENT OF FACTS
Defendants incorporate by reference the Statement of Facts contained in their
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 12013646
Brief in Support of Preliminary Objections.
IV. LEGAL ARGUMENT
In his brief in opposition to Defendants' Preliminary Objections, Plaintiff argues that
Defendant WFM Corporation's advertisements on the internet through TruckDriver.com and
AllBusiness.com satisfy Pennsylvania's quality-quantity analysis that is used to determine
whether a corporation regularly conducts business in Pennsylvania. Plaintiff references this
websites but has not attached them to his Response to Defendants' Preliminary Objections. This
argument is flawed and is inconsistent with the case law.
Pennsylvania applies a "quality and quantity" test to determine whether business contacts
qualify as regularly conducting business for the purposes of determining venue. Goodman v.
Fonslick, 844 A.2d 1252, 1255 (Pa.Super. 2004); Kubik v. Route 253, 762 A.2d 1119, 1124
(Pa.Super. 2000); Purcell v. Bn m Mawr Hospital, 525 Pa. 237, 579 A.2d 1282, 1285 (Pa.Super.
1990). A defendant corporation must perform acts of sufficient quality and quantity in a county
before venue in that county will be established. Shambe v. Delaware & H.R. Co., 288 Pa. 240,
135 A. 755, 757 (Pa. 1927). As to the meaning of quality and quantity:
[Q]uality of acts means those directly, further or essential to,
corporate objects; they do not include incidental acts. Quantity
means those acts which are so continuous and sufficient to be
general or habitual. The acts in the corporation must be
distinguished; those in aid of a main purpose are collateral and
incidental, while those needed to its existence are direct.
Purcell, 579 A.2d at 1285; see also Krosnoski v. Ward, 836 A.2d 143, 147 (Pa.Super. 2003).
Courts will find venue to be improper where venue is premised on a company's
advertisements on the internet. In Jenkins v. Marina District Development Co., 16 Pa.D.&C.51h
2
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 12013646
328 (Phila.Co. 2010), the plaintiff slipped and fell at the Borgata Hotel Casino. Id, at 328. The
plaintiff solely relied on the Borgata's web-based advertising and marketing to establish venue in
Philadelphia. Id. at 335-36. This Court conducted a quality and quantity analysis and determined
that this was not a valid basis for venue:
Borgata's website is not the sole means for reserving hotel rooms
or event tickets and there is also no evidence the website is the
main means for doing so. The use of the website is not needed for
the existence of its business and therefore not considered a direct
act, but an incidental one.
Id. at 337. Judge Tereshko found that the defendant did not regularly conduct business in
Philadelphia according to the quality and quantity standard:
The Borgata's website and its other web-based advertisements
amount to mere solicitations of business and incidental contacts
with Philadelphia County at best.
Id. at 339.
Likewise, in Kappe v. Lentz, Cantor & Massey, 2011 Phila.Ct.Com.P1.LEXIS 231, this
Court considered the plaintiff s argument that the defendant law firm regularly conducted
business in Philadelphia because the defendant law firm advertised on its website that it handles
matters in Philadelphia County. Id. at *8. Judge DiVito engaged in a quality and quantity
analysis and determined venue to be improper:
Mere advertisement or solicitation of business within the county
generally is not sufficient to satisfy the quality test, because
advertisement is generally incidental to the corporate object.
Id. at *8-*9, citing Masel v. Glassman, 456 Pa.Super. 41, 689 A.2d 314, 317. Judge DiVito
found that the act of advertising through a website was not itself sufficient to impose venue
jurisdiction. Id. at * 12.
Case ID: 11203266
Control No.: 12013646
Similarly, in Goodman, supra, the Superior Court of Pennsylvania considered the
plaintiffs argument that venue was proper in Philadelphia for a professional malpractice case
where the alleged malpractice occurred at Abington Memorial Hospital in Montgomery County
because the hospital advertised on the internet that it was a health care center serving people in
Philadelphia County. Id., 844 A.2d at 1255. The Court held that this argument failed as
advertisements appearing on websites are insufficient to establish venue in Philadelphia County.
Id.
In Kubik, supra, the plaintiff alleged that venue for his suit for injuries occurring in
Delaware County was proper in Philadelphia because the defendant's website solicited patrons
from Philadelphia County, provided a newsletter via email and sold gift certificates to
Philadelphia residents. Id., 762 A.2d at 1124. The Superior Court of Pennsylvania stated that it
did not need to enter into a quality/quantity analysis for the solicitation of patrons or for the
newsletter as these were attempts to solicit business which did not amount to conducting
business. Id. at 1125, citing Purcell, sup_ra,. With regard to the sale of gift certificates through the
defendant's website, the Court did engage in a quality/quantity analysis. Id. The Court found
that such sales did not justify venue in Philadelphia:
Certainly, the sale of gift certificates is not "necessary to its
existence," but rather serves to "aid ... [its] main purpose...
Thus, the sale of gift certificates is a collateral act, and this is
simply not enough to constitute regularly conducting business in
Philadelphia County.
Id.
In the present case, it should be initially pointed out that the websites referenced by
Plaintiff are not Defendant WFM Corporation's websites. TruckDriver.com and
4
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 12013646
AllBusiness.com are informational websites that list numerous businesses beside Defendant
WFM Corporation. All of the cases cited above deal with objecting defendants' own websites
when considering whether venue is proper. Putting that distinction aside, it is submitted that this
Court need not enter into a quality/quantity analysis as Plaintiff's sole basis for venue is
Defendant WFM Corporation's advertisements on the internet. Per Goodman, supra and Kubik,
supra, such a basis is insufficient to support a holding that Defendant WFM Corporation
regularly conducts business in Philadelphia and to impose venue.
Even if this Court engages in a quality/quality analysis based on Plaintiffs claims that
Defendant WFM Corporation attempts to hire qualified truck drivers through its internet
advertising, such an analysis will find venue to be improper. The solicitation of qualified truck
drivers from Philadelphia is clearly not essential to Defendant WFM Corporation's purposes.
There is no evidence that this is its only means for hiring qualified truck drivers. Similar to the
reservations at the Borgata at issue in Jenkins, supra, internet advertisement is not the sole means
for Defendant WFM Corporation to hire qualified truck drivers. Therefore, Defendant WFM
Corporation's internet advertising is not essential to its corporate objects and not necessary for its
existence. Therefore, Defendant WFM Corporation does not regularly conduct business in
Philadelphia, venue is improper and Defendants' preliminary objections should be sustained.
Case ID: 111.203266
Control No.: 12013646
V. CONCLUSION
For all of the reasons stated above, Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc,
respectfully request this Honorable Court to transfer this case to the Court of Common Pleas of
Cumberland County.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold
Leonard A. Windish
Attorney for Defendants
Allen Kauffman and
WFM Transport, Inc,
6
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Leonard A. Windish, hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Reply
Brief was served upon the following on February 21, 2012 by ECF:
Keith Levinson, Esquire
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, PA 19115
s/Leonard A. Windish
LEONARD A. WINDISH
Case ID: 111203266
Control No.: 12013646
6
lj T{'.i, i
cout!
L I p i }rri?? ?j I r'1
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, ESQUIRE
LEONARD A. WINDISH, ESQUIRE
IDENTIFICATION NOS. 52927/76460
1835 MARKET STREET, SUITE 1215
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 979-7605
To: Plaintiff:
You are hereby notified to file a written response to
the enclosed New Matter within twenty (20) days
from service hereof or a judgment may be entered
aga' st you.
r 1 /7
Attorney for Defendants Kauffman and WFM
Transport, Inc.
Attorneys for Defendants
Allen Kauffman and
WFM Transport, Inc.
ROBERT SMITH IN THE COURT OF COMMON
Plaintiff, PLEAS, CUMBERLAND
COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
NO. 12-2213
ALLEN KAUFFMAN and
WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants.
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER OF
DEFENDANTS KAUFFMAN AND WFM TRANSPORT, INC.
Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc., by and through their attorneys, Dean
E. Weisgold, P.C., hereby respond to Plaintiff's Complaint as follows
1. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without information to form a
belief as to the truth of these averments and, therefore, they are denied with strict proof thereof
demanded at the time of trial.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted the WFM Transport, Inc. is a
Pennsylvania business corporation with a business address as listed. The remaining averments
constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive pleading is required. It is specifically denied
that WFM Transport, Inc. regularly did business in Philadelphia.
4. Denied. These averments constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive
pleading is required.
5. Denied, except that Allen Kauffinan was operating a motor vehicle owned by WFM
Transport, Inc. on February 26, 2012 on the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Upper Mifflin Township,
Pennsylvania.
6. Denied. These averments constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive
pleading is required. By way of further denial, it is specifically denied that Defendants, jointly,
severally an/or singularly:
a. Operated a motor vehicle at an excessive speed;
b. Failed to have said vehicle under proper and adequate control;
C. Failed to give proper and sufficient warning of the approach of a vehicle;
d. Failed to yield to traffic;
e. Failed to operate a motor vehicle at a safe speed;
f Failed to follow at a safe distance;
g. Disregarded traffic lanes, patterns and other devices;
7. Denied. These averments constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive
pleading is required.
8. Denied. These averments constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive
pleading is required.
2
9. Denied. These averments constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive
pleading is required.
10. Denied. These averments constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive
pleading is required.
11. Denied. These averments constitute conclusions of law to which no responsive
pleading is required.
WHEREFORE, Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc., demand
judgment in their favor and against Plaintiff, together with costs and such further relief that this
Honorable Court deems just, proper and equitable.
NEW MATTER
1. The accident occurred as a result of plaintiffs' assumption of the risk.
2. If Plaintiff suffered the damages herein, which is denied, then those damages were
caused in whole or in part by Plaintiff's own negligence and recovery is barred in accordance with
the provisions of the Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Act.
3. Plaintiff's complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief may be granted.
4. Plaintiff's claims are barred or limited by the provisions of the Pennsylvania
Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Act, including, but not limited to the application of the
limited tort provision.
5. The damages as alleged in plaintiffs' complaint, which are specifically denied, if
not caused by Plaintiff's own negligence and/or assumption of the risk, are due solely to the
negligence or carelessness and/or other conduct of third parties over whom Answering
Defendants had no control.
3
6. Plaintiff s recovery is barred or limited by Plaintiff's failure to mitigate damages.
7. Plaintiff s claims are barred by a release.
8. Any damages sustained by Plaintiffs were not proximately caused by any actions on
the part of Defendants.
9.. The accident in questions was caused by an Act of God or unforeseeable emergency
conditions.
WHEREFORE, Defendants Allen Kauffman and WFM Transport, Inc., demand
judgment in their favor and against Plaintiff, together with costs and such further relief that this
Honorable Court deems just, proper and equitable.
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants
Allen Kauffman and
WFM Transport, Inc.
4
VERIFICATION
I, Allen Kauffman, hereby state that I have reviewed the facts set forth in the foregoing
Answer to Plaintiff's Complaint with New Matter and that the facts set forth therein are true and
correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
The undersigned understands that the statements herein are made subject to the penalties
of 18 Pa.C.S.A. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities
Allen Kauffman
VERIFICATION
I,gjyL? Qdc?; ( ?7hereby state that I am a representative of WFM Transport,
Inc. in connection with this matter, that I have reviewed the facts set forth in the foregoing
Answer to Plaintiff's Complaint with New Matter and that the facts set forth therein are true and
correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
The undersigned understands that the statements herein are made subject to the penalties
of 18 Pa.C.S.A. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities
fame: -?A M I E 1? . ?uw
itle:
C fA d
C41CL
d?G a2S r?'l i'%?r>?V?C
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Leonard A. Windish, hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing
Answer was served upon the following on May _C? 2012:
Keith Levinson, Esquire
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, PA 19115
LEONARD A. WINDISH
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
`- s i r)i .Jr?
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffinan, intend to serve a subpoena
identical to the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed
below in which to file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If
no objection is made, the subpoena may be served.
Date: °j 2 DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean . Weisgold, Esquire
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, defendants certify that:
A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached
thereto was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the
date on which the subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
3. no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached
to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Date: S I , I t- DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: kl,'?
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire, Attorney for
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Jeffrey A. Sklar, DC
1837 Norristown Road
Maple Glen, PA 19002
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to
produce the following documents or things: any and all documents, notes, correspondence,
medical records, MRI or x-ray films, reports or bills relating to Robert A. Smith, Social Security
Number 177-64-6978, date of birth 1/8/69.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this
subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the
address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the
copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty
(20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you
to comply with it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants, WFM Transport,
Inc. and Allen J. Kauffinan
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
TO: Jeffrey A. Sklar, DC
1837 Norristown Road
Maple Glen, PA 19002
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing
documents or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
1,
certify to the best of my
knowledge, information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant
to the subpoena issued on have been produced.
DATE:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorneys for Defendants
ROBERT SMITH
ND C0U 1T
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffinan, intend to serve a subpoena identical to
the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed below in which to
file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If no objection is made, the
subpoena may be served.
Date: DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffman
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule 4009.22,
defendants certify that:
A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached thereto was
mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the date on which the
subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
3. no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached to the
notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Date: DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Andrew Berkowitz, MD
725 Lisa Circle
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things: any and all documents, notes, correspondence, medical records, MRI or
x-ray films, reports or bills relating to Robert A. Smith, Social Security Number 177-64-6978, date of
birth 1/8/69.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above.
You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things
sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty (20) days
after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffman
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
TO: Andrew Berkowitz, MD
725 Lisa Circle
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing documents
or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
I,
certify to the best of my knowledge,
information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant to the subpoena
issued on have been produced.
DATE:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
ours
t?NIA
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman, intend to serve a subpoena identical to
the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed below in which to
file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If no objection is made, the
subpoena may be served.
Date: (DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dea*E.Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule 4009.22,
defendants certify that:
A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached thereto was
mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the date on which the
subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
3. no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached to the
notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Date: 5- )15 I IZ- DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: 1AM V?'
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffman
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
L D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Carlisle Regional Medical Center
361 Alexander Spring Drive
Carlisle, PA 17013
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things: any and all documents, notes, correspondence, medical records, MRI or
x-ray films, reports or bills relating to Robert A. Smith, Social Security Number 177-64-6978, date of
birth 1/8/69.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above.
You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things
sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty (20) days
after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
TO: Carlisle Regional Medical Center
361 Alexander Spring Drive
Carlisle, PA 17013
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing documents
or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
I,
certify to the best of my knowledge,
information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant to the subpoena
issued on
have been produced.
DATE:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
T'It
Attorneys for Defendap?
y
C
OUNTV'
of ",t a
s? 1
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman, intend to serve a subpoena identical to
the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed below in which to
file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If no objection is made, the
subpoena may be served.
Date: -s I-d Irl- DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule 4009.22,
defendants certify that:
A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached thereto was
mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the date on which the
subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
3. no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached to the
notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Date: S k I I'- DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: l1 (/W
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffman
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Concentra Medical Center
2010 Levick Street
Philadelphia, PA 19149
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things: any and all documents, notes, correspondence, medical records, MRI or
x-ray films, reports or bills relating to Robert A. Smith, Social Security Number 177-64-6978, date of
birth 1/8/69.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above.
You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things
sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty (20) days
after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffman
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL :
NO. 12-2213
TO: Concentra Medical Center
2010 Levick Street
Philadelphia, PA 19149
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing documents
or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
I,
certify to the best of my knowledge,
information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant to the subpoena
issued on - have been produced.
DATE:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendant'
-'
T
,I, r ,r r ;•1 ff•ry tr ,:
?l1Lr oT ? tJC V`4
4Y;Ai iu I!
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffinan, intend to serve a subpoena
identical to the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed
below in which to file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If
no objection is made, the subpoena may be served.
Date: 1111 a- _ DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: 04-t- ??
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport,
Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, defendants certify that:
A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached
thereto was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the
date on which the subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached
to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Dater (Z- DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: b?? (&-?
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Keystone Pain Management and Wellness
6334 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to
produce the following documents or things: any and all documents, notes, correspondence,
medical records, MRI or x-ray films, reports or bills relating to Robert A. Smith, Social Security
Number 177-64-6978, date of birth 1/8/69.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this
subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the
address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the
copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty
(20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you
to comply with it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport,
Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927, 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
TO: Keystone Pain Management and Wellness
6334 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19144
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing
documents or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
1,
certify to the best of my
knowledge, information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant
to the subpoena issued on
have been produced.
DATE:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C. F, .s s, I fi Acttorneys for Defendants
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquim- f .'
Leonard A. Windish, Esquir?q C C .'r i .
r s?;:, t
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffinan, intend to serve a subpoena
identical to the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed
below in which to file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If
no objection is made, the subpoena may be served.
Date: SH 12 _ DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E Weisgold, Esquire, Attorneys for
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen
J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
1. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, defendants certify that:
A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached
thereto was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the
date on which the subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
3. no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached
to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Date: DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: b4W M-
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Germantown Pain Management, LLC
6334 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to
produce the following documents or things: any and all documents, notes, correspondence,
medical records, MRI or x-ray films, reports or bills relating to Robert A. Smith, Social Security
Number 177-64-6978, date of birth 1/8/69.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this
subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the
address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the
copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty
(20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you
to comply with it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport,
Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
1. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH :
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
TO: Germantown Pain Management, LLC
6334 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing
documents or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
I,
certify to the best of my
knowledge, information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant
to the subpoena issued on
have been produced.
DATE:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
rn
?r?1 cw
r-`
C)
Yom, C
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman, intend to serve a subpoena
the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed below in
file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If no objection is made,
subpoena may be served.
Date: DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: 94tx- 4't'
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport,
and Allen J. Kauffman
r_
to
to
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule 4009
defendants certify that:
A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached thereto
mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the date on which
subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
3. no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached to
notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Date: _& I -? 1 n, DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:. ?? v
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffman
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: CRST Malone/Crest International
20 Steel Road South
Morrisville, PA 19067
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to prod
following documents or things: the complete personnel, employment and claims file for to Robert A.
Social Security Number 177-64-6978, date of birth 1/8/69, including any correspondence, notes, wo
compensation documents, incident reports, investigative file, index information, statements, enT
applications, disciplinary actions, disability information, medical records, property damage estimat
lien information.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this sub
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed
You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the
sought.
the
's
and
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty (20) days
after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply wi h it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendants, WFM Transport,
and Allen J. Kauffman
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL :
TO: CRST Malone/Crest International
20 Steel Road South
Morrisville, PA 19067
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing
or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
I,
certify to the best of my
information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant to the
issued on _ have been produced.
DATE:
ti ED-Uk I ?
E 1 -gam H0NOT t 1' `
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C. I OCT I I f 2: k4orneys for Defendants
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire ?? 3ERLAUU COUINTY
Leonard A. Windish, EsquH
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460 PENNSYLVANIA
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman, intend to serve a subpoena
identical to the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed
below in which to file of record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If
no objection is made, the subpoena may be served.
Date: 911191 1 Z DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: ? VJ
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffinan
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A
SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, defendants certify that:
1. A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena attached
thereto was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty (20) days prior to the
date on which the subpoena is sought to be served,
2. a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this
certificate,
3. no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
4. the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is attached
to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
Date: 10 1 g I I z DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY: 4?(P
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire, Attorney for
Defendants, WFM Transport, Inc.
and Allen J. Kauffman
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
NO. 12-2213
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR
THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Dr. George Romano
500 Willow Ave
Ambler, PA 19002
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to
produce the following documents or things: any and all documents, notes, correspondence,
medical records, MRI or x-ray films, reports or bills relating to Robert A. Smith, Social Security
Number 177-64-6978, date of birth 1/8/69.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or things requested by this
subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the
address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the
copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty
(20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you
to comply with it.
This subpoena was issued at the request of the following person:
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
BY:
Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants, WFM Transport,
Inc. and Allen J. Kauffman
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
Attorney I.D. No. 52927
Date
BY THE COURT:
(Prothonotary)
DEAN E. WEISGOLD, P.C.
By: Dean E. Weisgold, Esquire
Leonard A. Windish, Esquire
I. D. Nos.: 52927; 76460
1835 Market Street, Suite 1215
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 599-0327
ROBERT SMITH
V.
WFM TRANSPORT, INC. AND
ALLEN KAUFFMAN, ET AL
Attorneys for Defendants
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NO. 12-2213
TO: Dr. George Romanzo
500 Willow Ave
Ambler, PA 19002
You are required to complete the following Certificate of Compliance when producing
documents or things pursuant to the Subpoena:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.23
I,
certify to the best of my
knowledge, information and belief that all documents or things required to be produced pursuant
to the subpoena issued on have been produced.
DATE:
By: Keith Levinson, Esquire
Identification No.: 56247
1730 Welsh Road
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19115
Telephone No.: 215 969-7400
Attorney for Plaintiff
Robert Smith
v.
Allen Kauffman
WFM Transpost
c-) r..,,
G - r
COURT OF COMMON R i1 S
OF CUMBERLAND CO1 Y N nr
No.: 12-2213
ORDER TO SETTLE, DISCONTINUE AND END
To the Prothonotary:
Kindly mark the above captioned matter Settled, Discontinued and Ended.
KEITH LEVINSON, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Plaintiff
r _-t1
G r)
•