HomeMy WebLinkAbout14-1826 Supreme Court of Pennsylvania
P
Cou of Co m T ' Pleas
For Prothono Use On
VIA C F
'OVefi 'et rJ' Onl
Ci�In Docket No:
d` C
A l — /9XCV
The information collected on this form is used solely for court administration ptaj7oses. This form does not
supplement or replace the filing at7d seri of pleadings or otl7er papers as required by lar,- or rides of 'cout•t.
Commencement of Action:
[3 Complaint 0 Writ of Summons El Petition
[3 Transfer from Another Jurisdiction ❑Notice of Appeal
S
E El of Taking
C Lead Plaintiff's Name: Lead Defendant's Name:
T Diana Raia Tracey Spinella
I ❑ Check here if you are a Self- Represented (Pro Se) .Litigant
0 Name of Plaintiff /Appellant Attorney: David H Rosenberg
N
Are money damages requested?: ❑X Yes ❑ No 11- lar Amount Requested: ❑ within arbitration limits
(Check one) MX outside arbitration limits
A
Is this a Class Action Suit? ❑ Yes 0 No
Nature of the Case Place an "X" to the left of the ONE case category that most accurately describes your
PRIMARY CASE. If you are making more than one type of claim, check the one that
you consider most important.
TORT (do not include Mass Tort) CONTRACT (do not include Judgments) CIVIL APPEALS
❑ Intentional ❑ Buyer Plaintiff Administrative Agencies
❑ Malicious Prosecution ❑ Debt Collection: Credit Card ❑ Board of Assessment
❑X Motor Vehicle ❑ Debt Collection: Other
❑ Nuisance El Board of Elections
❑ Dept. of Transportation
S
El Premises Liability F1 Zoning Board
❑ Product Liability (does not include ❑ Statutory Appeal: Other
E mass tort) El Employment Dispute:
E] Slander/Libel/ Defamation Discrimination
C ❑ Other: ❑ Employment Dispute: Other
T Judicial Appeals
❑ MDJ - Landlord/Tenant
I ❑ Other: ❑ MDJ - Money Judgment
O MASS TORT ❑ Other:
❑ Asbestos
N H Tobacco
Toxic Tort - DES
❑ Toxic Tort - Implant REAL PROPERTY MISCELLANEOUS
❑ Toxic Waste
❑ Other: El Ejectment [] Common Law /Statutory Arbitration
B ❑ Eminent Domain /Condemnation ❑ Declaratory Judgment
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PROFESSIONAL LIABLITY
El Mortgage Foreclosure Restraining Order
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❑ Dental ❑ Quiet Title
E] Legal ❑ Replevin
❑ Medical ❑ Other: ❑ Other:
❑ Other Professional:
Pa.R.C.P. 205.5 212010
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Civil Action - ( ) Law
DIANA and GERALD RAIA TRACEY SPINELLA
PSC 451 Box 50 10 Hazelwood Court
FPO, AE 09834 Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA
10 Hazelwood Court
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
VERSUS
Plaintiff(s) & Defendant(s) & n _
r n f -
Address(es) Address(es) fir? w
-,:r- Q ' - - '
PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF SUMMONS <C �
C 3 .
_ C..
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF SAID COURT:'
Please issue a Writ of Summons in the above - mentioned action.
Writ of Summons shall be issued and forwarded toA xxx)) Attorney
David H Rosenberg, Esquire �"
1300 Linglestown Road - Suite 2 Signature ?Attorney
Harrisburg, PA 17110 Suprem Court ID #20569
Date:
WRIT OF SUMMONS
TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S)
x
YOU �?:F�E g0t,IFiED THAT THE ABOVE -NAMED PLAINTIFF(S) HAS /HAVE COMMENCED AN
ACTION.AGAINS7 YOU.
- Prothonotary Deput
Date: / �'`''rS' 4P -M4(
/
CK�' 3 sf3y 9
SHERIFF'S OFFICE OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Ronny RAnderson r!l,__.,a ; L`t
Sheriff 4/ i HF PRO T1 :jpl'l r .
Jody S Smith
Chief Deputy
Richard W Stewart
Solicitor
Cllirdocii
OF :FILE xFFit; rte*FEFr
4 4PR --8 pm 3:
MBE) ; A N Q COUNT'
PENNS YLVA NIA
Diana Raia (et al.)
vs.
Tracey Spinella (et al.)
Case Number
2014 -1826
SHERIFF'S RETURN OF SERVICE
03/31/2014 07:44 PM - Deputy Dennis Fry, being duly sworn according to law, served the requested Writ of
Summons by "personally" handing a true copy to a person representing themselves to be the Defendant,
to wit: Tracey Spinella at 10 Hazelwood Court, Silver Spring, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050.
DEN FRY, DEP Y
03/31/2014 07:44 PM - Deputy Dennis Fry, being duly sworn according to law, served the requested Writ of
Summons by "personally" handing a true copy to a person representing themselves to be the Defendant,
to wit: Louis Philip Spinella at 10 Hazelwood Court, Silver Spring, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050.
DENN FRY
DEP. Y
SHERIFF COST: $55.30 SO ANSWERS,
April 02, 2014
unt Sui;e Sherit e eO$Oft, !nc.
RONNY R ANDERSON, SHERIFF
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
BY: SHARON F. HARVEY, ESQUIRE
ATTORNEY I.D. #25732
171 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100
Paoli, PA 19301
(610) 640 -2808
Attorney for Defendants, R lo .,
Tracey Spinella and C� fL Per I' 1
Louis Philip Spinella PENNSYLVANIA f�vU�fd'T �,
DIANA AND GERALD RAIA
v.
: COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
TRACEY SPINELLA and : NO. 14 -1826
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE/DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter my appearance on behalf of the Defendants, Tracey Spinella and Louis
Philip Spinella, with regard to the above - captioned matter.
Trial by a jury of twelve (12) members is hereby demanded.
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
BY:
Sharon F. Harvey, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants,
Tracey Spinella and
Louis Philip Spinella
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Sharon F. Harvey, Esquire, hereby certify that on this 7th day of April, 2014, a true
and correct copy of Defendants' Entry of Appearance was served upon all counsel of record
at the address listed below via First Class, U.S. Mail with postage pre-paid from Paoli,
Pennsylvania.
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
Handler, Henning & Rosenberg, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Plaintiffs' Counsel
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
By: A,ze
Sharon F. Harvey, Esquir
Attorney for Defendants,
Tracey Spinella and
Louis Philip Spine lla
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
BY: SHARON F. HARVEY, ESQUIRE
ATTORNEY I.D. #25732
171 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100
Paoli, PA 19301
(610) 640 -2808
Attorney for Defendants,.,
Tracey Spinella and
Louis Philip Spinella
Ali f „r
YAPI � fQ P1; 1: !1,
BERLAND PENNSY( At COUNT)/
DIANA AND GERALD RAIA
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA and
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA
: COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: NO. 14-1826
PRAECIPE TO FILE COMPLAINT
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter a Rule upon the Plaintiff to file a Complaint within twenty (20) days
hereof or suffer the entry of a Judgment of Non Pros.
DATE: April 7, 2014
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
BY: .tip
Sharon F. Harvey, Esquire
RULE TO FILE COMPLAINT
AND NOW, this 0 day of PI1 < < 1 , 2014, a Rule is granted upon the
Plaintiff to file a Complaint herein within twenty (20) days after service or suffer the entry of a
Judgment of Non Pros.
PROTHONOTARY
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Sharon F. Harvey, Esquire, hereby certify that on this 7th day of April, 2014, a true
and correct copy of Defendants' Praecipe and Rule to File Complaint was served upon all
counsel of record at the address listed below via First Class, U.S. Mail with postage pre-paid
from Paoli, Pennsylvania.
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
Handler, Henning & Rosenberg, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Plaintiffs' Counsel
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
By: .411-k)c-em_
Sharon F. Harvey, Esqu
Attorney for Defendants,
Tracey Spinella and
Louis Philip Spine lla
David H Rosenberg (PA 20569)
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph. 717.238.2000
Fax 717.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
2014
[f i r
Pt!
1;111'13E RI_ A
PE NN S AND
CiOUIk�' T
C7
Attorneys for Plaintiff
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
DIANA RAIA,
GERALD RAIA,
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA,
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA,
Plaintiffs,
Defendants.
NO.: 14-1826
CIVIL ACTION — LAW
PRAECIPE TO AMEND CAPTION
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please amend caption of docket number 14-1826, which lists Plaintiffs as Diana Raia,
Gerald Raia. Gerald Raia should be removed from the caption as he was included in the caption
in error. The amended caption for docket number 14-1826 should read as follows:
DIANA RAIA,
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA,
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA,
Plaintiffs,
Defendants.
NO.: 14-1826
CIVIL ACTION — LAW
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER HENNING & ROSENBERG LLP
Dated: May -7 , 2014 By: U/lam
David Hosenberg (20569)
1300 nglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph.: 717.238.2000
Fax: 717.233.3029
Attorneys for plaintiff
Diana Raia
2
David H Rosenberg (PA 20569)
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph. 717.238.2000
Fax 717.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
DIANA RAIA,
GERALD RAIA,
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA,
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA,
Plaintiffs,
Defendants.
NO.: 14-1826
CIVIL ACTION — LAW
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 7th day of May, 2014, I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of Plaintiffs'
Praecipe to Amend Caption was served upon the following by depositing in U.S. Mail:
Sharon F. Harvey, Esq.
Connor, Weber & Oberlies
171 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100
Paoli, PA 19301-1775
By:
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER HENNING & ROSENBERG LLP
David H Rosenberg (20569)
David H Rosenberg (PA 20569)
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph. 717.238.2000
Fax 717.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
ILo;
l Uyf -. J
'j
CUNBERL AND
PENNSYLVANIA
ENNS YL ANIA t },
0
Attorneys for Plaintiff
THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
DIANA RAIA,
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA,
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA,
Plaintiffs,
Defendants
NO.: 14-1826
CIVIL ACTION — LAW
NOTICE
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in
the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this Complaint and Notice are
served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the Court
your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do
so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court
without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint or for any other claim or relief
requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A
LAWYER, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN
PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER.
IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE
YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO
ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(800) 990-9108
(717) 249-3166
AVISO
USTED HA SIDO DEMANDADO/A EN CORTE. Si usted desea defenderse de las demandas que
se presentan mas adelante en las siguientes paginas, debe tomar accion dentro de los proximos
veinte (20) dias despues de la notificacion de esta Demanda y Aviso radicando personalmente o por
medio de un abogado una comparecencia escrita y radicando en la Corte por escrito sus defensas
de, y objecciones a, las demandas presentadas aqui en contra suya. Se le advierte de que si usted
falla de tomar accion como se describe anteriormente, el caso puede proceder sin usted y un fallo
por cualquier suma de dinero reclamada en la demanda o cualquier otra reclamacion 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 0 VAYA A LA SIGUIENTE OFICINA. ESTA OFICINA PUEDE
PROVEERLE INFORMACION A CERCA DE COMO CONSEGUIR UN ABOGADO.
SI USTED NO PUEDE PAGAR POR LOS SERVICIOS DE UN ABOGADO, ES POSIBLE QUE
ESTA OFICINA LE PUEDA PROVEER INFORMACION SOBRE AGENCIAS QUE OFREZCAN
SERVICIOS LEGALES SIN CARGO 0 BAJO COSTO A PERSONAS QUE CUALIFICAN.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
(800) 990-9108
(717) 249-3166
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
By
Dated: -5 -
David ' osenberg
Atto y for Plaintiff
David H Rosenberg (PA 20569)
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph. 717.238.2000
Fax 717.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
DIANA RAIA,
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA,
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA,
Plaintiffs,
Defendants.
NO.: 14-1826
CIVIL ACTION — LAW
COMPLAINT
Plaintiff, Diana Raia ("Mrs. Raia"), by and through her attorneys, HANDLER, HENNING &
ROSENBERG, LLP, makes this complaint against the Defendants, Tracey Spinella ("Defendant
Driver") and Louis Philip Spinella ("Defendant Owner"), (collectively, the "Defendants"), and
avers as follows:
1. Mrs. Raia is a competent adult individual and citizen of Pennsylvania having a
primary address of 1240 Windsor Road, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
2. Defendant Driver is, upon information and belief, a competent adult individual
currently residing at 10 Hazelwood Court, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
3. Defendant Owner is, upon information and belief, a competent adult individual
currently residing at 10 Hazelwood Court, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
4. At all times material hereto, Mrs. Raia was the operator of a 1997 Ford Explorer
bearing Pennsylvania license plate number ZFX7764 ("Plaintiffs Vehicle").
5. At all times material hereto, Defendant Driver was the owner and operator of a
2006 Toyota Highlander bearing Pennsylvania license plate number HGP2506 ("Defendants'
Vehicle").
6. At all times material hereto, Mrs. Raia was insured under an automobile policy
with USAA Insurance Company and was covered under the full tort option.
7. At all times material hereto, it was daylight and there were no adverse weather
or road conditions.
8. On April 6, 2012, at approximately 4:45 p.m., Mrs. Raia was traveling
southbound on Carlisle Pike in Hampden Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
9. At approximately the same time and place, Defendant was traveling behind
Plaintiff's Vehicle on Carlisle Pike.
10. While traveling on Carlisle Pike, Plaintiff came to a stop at a traffic signal.
11. At approximately the same time and place, Defendant failed to react safely to
Plaintiff's Vehicle, and suddenly and violently struck the rear of the Plaintiff's Vehicle.
2
12. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant Driver, Mrs. Raia
sustained injuries as set forth more specifically below.
COUNT I — NEGLIGENCE
Diana Raia v. Tracey Spinella
13. All prior paragraphs are incorporated herein as if set forth fully below.
14. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and all the resultant injuries to
Mrs. Raia are the direct and proximate result of the negligence and/or carelessness of
Defendant Driver, generally and more specifically as set forth below:
a. in driving Defendants' Vehicle in careless disregard for the safety
of persons or property, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3714;
b. in failing to exercise reasonable care in the operation and control
of Defendants' Vehicle, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3714;
c. in following another vehicle more closely than was reasonable
and prudent, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3310(a);
d. in disregarding the speed of vehicles, the traffic upon the
highway; and the condition of the highway, in violation of 75
Pa.C.S. § 3310(a);
e. in failing to properly regulate the speed of Defendants' Vehicle so
as to prevent a rear -end collision;
f. in failing to operate Defendants' Vehicle at a speed that was safe
for the existing conditions and at which she could stop within the
assured clear distance ahead, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3361;
3
g. in failing to operate Defendants' Vehicle in such a manner that
would allow her to apply the brakes and stop before striking the
vehicle in front of her;
h. in failing to have sufficient control of Defendants' Vehicle, which
would have allowed the vehicle to be stopped before doing injury
to any person or any thing likely to arise under the circumstances;
and
in failing to be continuously alert, in failing to perceive any
warning of danger that was reasonably likely to exist, and in
failing to have Defendant vehicle under such control that injury to
persons or property could be avoided.
15. As a direct and proximate result of Defendant Driver's negligence, Mrs. Raia has:
a. suffered personal injuries including, but not limited to, injuries to
her head, neck, shoulder, and upper back;
b. undergone continuing medical care for her injuries;
c. suffered physical pain, discomfort, and mental anguish, and she
will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time
in the future, to her physical, emotional, and financial detriment
and loss;
d. been compelled, in order to effect a cure for the aforesaid
injuries, to spend money for medicine and/or medical attention
4
and will be required to spend money for the same purposes in the
future, to her detriment and loss;
e. been unable to work and will continue to suffer a loss of income
and/or earning capacity in the future;
f. suffered a loss of life's pleasures and will continue to suffer the
same in the future, to her detriment and loss; and
g. been, and will in the future continue to be, hindered from
attending to her daily duties and chores, to her detriment, loss,
humiliation, and embarrassment.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Diana Raia, seeks damages from Defendant, Tracey Spinella, in
excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland County, exclusive of interest and
costs.
COUNT II — NEGLIGENT ENTRUSTMENT
Diana Raia v. Louis Philip Spinella
16. All prior paragraphs are incorporated herein as if set forth fully below.
17. Defendant Owner was the co-owner of Defendants' Vehicle, which Defendant
Driver had permission to operate at the time of the collision.
18. Defendant Owner knew, or should have known, that Defendant Driver would be
operating Defendants' Vehicle without reasonable care and safety.
19. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant Owner, Mrs.
Raia sustained extensive injuries and damages as set forth more specifically below.
5
20. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and the resultant injuries to Mrs.
Raia were the direct and proximate result of Defendant Owner's negligence in entrusting his
vehicle to Defendant Driver and allowing her to operate the vehicle when he knew, or should
have known, that Defendant Driver was not fit and/or competent to operate Defendants'
Vehicle in a safe, non -negligent manner.
21. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and all of the resultant injuries
to Mrs. Raia are the direct and proximate result of Defendant Owner in negligently allowing
Defendant Driver to operate Defendants' Vehicle when he knew, or should have known, of her
propensity to operate vehicles as set forth below:
a. in driving Defendants' Vehicle in careless disregard for the safety
of persons or property, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3714;
b. in failing to exercise reasonable care in the operation and control
of Defendants' Vehicle, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3714;
c. in following another vehicle more closely than was reasonable
and prudent, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3310(a);
d. in disregarding the speed of vehicles, the traffic upon the
highway; and the condition of the highway, in violation of 75
Pa.C.S. § 3310(a);
e. in failing to properly regulate the speed of Defendants' Vehicle so
as to prevent a rear -end collision;
6
f. in failing to operate Defendants' Vehicle at a speed that was safe
for the existing conditions and at which she could stop within the
assured clear distance ahead, in violation of 75 Pa.C.S. § 3361;
g. in failing to operate Defendants' Vehicle in such a manner that
would allow her to apply the brakes and stop before striking the
vehicle in front of her;
h. in failing to have sufficient control of Defendants' Vehicle, which
would have allowed the vehicle to be stopped before doing injury
to any person or any thing likely to arise under the circumstances;
and
i. in failing to be continuously alert, in failing to perceive any
warning of danger that was reasonably likely to exist, and in
failing to have Defendants' Vehicle under such control that injury
to persons or property could be avoided.
22. As a direct and proximate result of Defendant Owner's negligence, Mrs. Raia has:
a. suffered personal injuries including, but not limited to, injuries to
her head, neck, shoulder, and upper back;
b. undergone continuing medical care for her injuries;
c. suffered physical pain, discomfort, and mental anguish, and she
will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time
in the future, to her physical, emotional, and financial detriment
and loss;
7
d. been compelled, in order to effect a cure for the aforesaid
injuries, to spend money for medicine and/or medical attention
and will be required to spend money for the same purposes in the
future, to her detriment and loss;
e. been unable to work and will continue to suffer a loss of income
and/or earning capacity in the future;
f. suffered a loss of life's pleasures and will continue to suffer the
same in the future, to her detriment and loss; and
g. been, and will in the future continue to be, hindered from
attending to her daily duties and chores, to her detriment, loss,
humiliation, and embarrassment.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Diana Raia, seeks damages from Defendant, Louis Philip Spinella,
in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland County, exclusive of interest and
costs.
Date: May 7 , 2014
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER, HENNING AND ROSENBERG, LLP
By:
//1
H R enberg (PA 20569)
1300 Lin estown Road, Suite 2
Harrisb rg, PA 17110
Ph. 717.238.2000
Fax 717.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
Attorneys for plaintiff,
Diana Raia
8
VERIFICATION
The undersigned hereby verifies that the statements in the foregoing document
are based upon information which has been furnished to counsel by me and information
which has been gathered by counsel in the preparation of this lawsuit. The language of
the document is of counsel and not my own. I have read the document and to the
extent that it is based upon information which I have given to counsel, it is true and
correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. To the extent that the
contents of the document are that of counsel, I have relied upon my counsel in making
this Verification. The undersigned also understands that the statements made therein
are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904, relating to unsworn
falsification to authorities.
Date:
David H Rosenberg (PA 20569)
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph. 717.238.2000
Fax 717.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
DIANA RAIA,
GERALD RAIA,
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA,
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA,
Plaintiffs,
Defendants.
NO.: 14-1826
CIVIL ACTION — LAW
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 7th day of May, 2014, I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of Plaintiffs'
Complaint was served upon the following by depositing in U.S. Mail:
Sharon F. Harvey, Esq.
Connor, Weber & Oberlies
171 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100
Paoli, PA 19301-1775
By:
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER HENNING & ROSENBERG LLP
David I osenberg (20569)
TO: PARTIES:
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED TO FILE A
WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE ENCLOSED
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER WITHIN TWENTY
(20) DAYS FROM SERVICE HEREOF OR A
JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU.
Attorney for Defendant
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
BY: SHARON F. HARVEY, ESQUIRE
ATTORNEY I.D. #25732
171 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100
Paoli, PA 19301
(610) 640-2808
1-7L.
THE PR0THON0'7Airi
?OA JUN -9 AH 10: 59
UMBERL NO COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
Attorney for Defendants,
Tracey Spinella and
Louis Philip Spinella
DIANA RAIA
V.
TRACEYSPINELLA and
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA
: COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: NO. 14-1826
DEFENDANTS' ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER TO PLAINTIFF'S COMPLAINT
Defendants' Tracey Spinella and Louis Philip Spinella, by and through their
undersigned counsel, hereby respond as follows to Plaintiff's Complaint
Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as the truth of the averments in this paragraph and as
such, they are denied.
Admitted.
3 AdMitted.
4. AdMitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as the truth of the averments in this paragraph and as
such, they are denied.
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted.
9. Admitted.
10. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as the truth of the averments in this paragraph and as
such, they are denied.
11. Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 11 contain conclusions of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict proof of
same is denied at the time of trial of this matter.
12. Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 12 contain conclusions of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict proof of
same is denied at the time of trial of this matter.
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
Diana Raia v. Tracey Spinella
13. Defendants incorporate by reference the responses contained in paragraphs 1
through 12 of their Answer as though set forth herein at length.
14. (a -i) Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 14 (a -i) contain conclusions of
law to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict
proof of same is denied at the time of trial of this matter. Strict proof of same is denied at the
time of trial of this matter.
15.(a -g) Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 15(a -g) contain conclusions of
law to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict
proof of same is demanded at the time of trial of this matter. By way of further Answer, Strict
proof is demanded of the personal injuries sustained by plaintiff, the medical care received
and its relationship to the injuries allegedly sustained in the April 6, 2012 incident is
demanded. Moreover, Answering Defendant demands proof at the time of trial that Plaintiff
has been forced to expend money to for medicine and/or medical care because of injuries
allegedly sustained in the April 6, 2012 incident; has been unable to work as a result of the
April 6, 2012 incident; suffered a loss of life's pleasures as a result of the April 6, 2012 incident
and has been or will be in the future hindered from attending to her daily duties or chores or
suffered any humiliation or embarrassment as a result of the April 6, 2012.
WHEREFORE, Answering Defendants demand judgment in their favor and against
Plaintiffs, together with costs, interest and any additional relief the Court may deem
appropriate.
COUNT II - NEGLIGENT ENTRUSTMENT
Diana Raia v. Louis Philip Spinella
16. Defendants incorporate by reference the responses contained in paragraphs 1
through 15 of their Answer as though set forth herein at length.
17. Admitted.
18. Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 18 contain conclusions of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict proof of
same is denied at the time of trial of this matter. By way of further Answer, it is specifically
denied that Defendant Driver failed to operate Defendant Owner's vehicle without reasonable.
care and safety. At all times relevant, Defendant Driver was appropriately attentive based
upon the circumstances presented.
19. Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 19 contain conclusions of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict proof of
same is denied at the time of trial of this matter.
20. Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 20 contain conclusions of law
to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict proof of
same is denied at the time of trial of this matter. By way of further Answer, it is specifically
denied that Defendant Owner was defendant in entrusting his vehicle to Defendant Driver
who at all times relevant operated her vehicle in a manner appropriate to the circumstances.
21.(a -i) Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 21(a -i) contain conclusions of
law to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict
proof of same is denied at the time of trial of this matter. By way of further Answer, strict
proof of the allegations concerning Defendant Driver's propensity to operate her vehicle in
violation of the cited Pennsylvania statutes is demanded at the time of trial of this matter.
22.(a -g) Denied. The averments contained in Paragraph 21(a -g) contain conclusions of
law to which no responsive pleading is required, therefore they are deemed denied. Strict
proof of same is denied at the time of trial of this matter. By way of further Answer strict proof
of the personal injuries sustained by plaintiff, the medical care received and its relationship to
the injuries allegedly sustained in the April 6, 2012 incident is demanded. Moreover,
Answering Defendant demands proof at the time of trial that Plaintiff has been forced to
expend money to for medicine and/or medical care because of injuries allegedly sustained in
the April 6, 2012 incident; has been unable to work as a result of the April 6, 2012 incident;
suffered a loss of life's pleasures as a result of the April 6, 2012 incident and has been or will be
in the future hindered from attending to her daily duties or chores or suffered any humiliation
or embarrassment as a result of the April 6, 2012.
WHEREFORE, Answering Defendants demand judgment in their favor and against
Plaintiffs, together with costs, interest and any additional relief the Court may deem
appropriate
NEW MATTER
1. Defendants incorporate by reference the responses contained in the preceding
paragraphs of their Answer as though set forth herein at length.
2. Plaintiffs' Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted.
3. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the applicable statute of limitations.
4. Some or all of the damages claimed are not recoverable under the applicable
law.
5. Answering Defendants aver that at all times material hereto, Plaintiffs' causes of
action were governed by the Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law, 75 Pa. C.S.A. §1701,
et seq., as amended, and Answering Defendants assert all defenses available to them under the
terms of and decisions interpreting that Act.
6. Plaintiffs' claims are barred and/or reduced by virtue of them being subject
to the "limited tort" option.
7. The sole, proximate cause of any injuries allegedly sustained by Plaintiff(s)
was the carelessness, negligence and/or breach of obligations to him/ them by individuals
and/or entities other than Defendants.
8. Plaintiff's recovery of damages, if any, is reduced and/ or eliminated because
Plaintiffs failed to mitigate their damages.
WHEREFORE, Answering Defendants demands judgment in their favor and against
Plaintiffs, together with costs, interest and any additional relief the Court may deem
appropriate.
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
By:.,./litikAmi
I
Sharon F. Harvey, Esire
Attorney for Defendants
Tracey Spinella and
Louis Philip Spinella
VERIFICATION
I, Tracey Spinella, am the Defendant herein and I verify that the statements contained
in the foregoing Answer and New Matter to Plaintiff's Complaint are true and correct to the
best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that false statements herein are
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.A. Section 4904 relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities.
DATED: . /zg/i�
Tracey Spin lla
VERIFICATION
I, Louis Spinella, am the Defendant herein and I verify that the statements contained in
the foregoing Answer and New Matter to Plaintiff's Complaint are true and correct to the best
of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that false statements herein are made
subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.A. Section 4904 relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities.
DA1 ED: -51261//4
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Sharon F. Harvey, Esquire, hereby certify that on this 5th day of June, 2014, a true and
correct copy of Defendants' Answer with New Matter to Plaintiffs' Complaint was served
upon all counsel of record at the address listed below via First Class, U.S. Mail with postage
pre -paid from Paoli, Pennsylvania.
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
Handler, Henning & Rosenberg, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Plaintiffs' Counsel
CONNOR, WEBER & OBERLIES
By:
Sharon F. Harvey, Efxire
Attorney for Defendants,
Tracey Spinella and
Louis Philip Spinella
David H Rosenberg (PA 20569)
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road, Suite 2
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Ph. 717.238.2000
Fax 717.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
cull'EER A ND COUNT'
PENNS ACvCq
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
DIANA RAIA,
v.
TRACEY SPINELLA,
LOUIS PHILIP SPINELLA,
Plaintiff,
Defendants.
NO.: 14-1826
CIVIL ACTION — LAW
PLAINTIFF'S REPLY TO NEW MATTER
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, Diana Raia, by and through her attorney, HANDLER,
HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP, by David H Rosenberg, Esq., and responds to the Defendants'
allegations of New Matter as follows:
1. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
2. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
3. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
4. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
5. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
6. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
7. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
8. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
9. Denied. These are conclusions of law to which a response is not required.
Should a response be required, these averments are strictly denied.
2
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, Diana Raia, seeks damages from Defendant, Louis Philip Spinella,
in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland County, exclusive of interest and
costs.
Date: June 9 , 2014 By:
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER, H ING AND ROSENBERG, LLP
David H Ros: berg (PA 20569)
1300 Lin: -stown Road, Suite 2
Harrisb , rg, PA 17110
Ph. 7 .238.2000
Fax 17.233.3029
rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
Attorneys for plaintiff,
Diana Raia
3
VERIFICATION
PURSUANT TO PA R.C.P. NO. 1024 (c)
David H Rosenberg, Esquire, states that he is the attorney for the party filing
the foregoing document; that he makes this affidavit as an attorney, because the party
he represents lacks sufficient knowledge or information upon which to make a
verification and/or because he has greater personal knowledge of the information and
belief than that of the party for whom he makes this affidavit; and that he has sufficient
knowledge or information and belief, based upon his investigation of the matters
averred or denied in the foregoing document; and that this statement is made subject to
the penalties of 18 Pa C.S. §4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
David/ Rosenberg, Esquire
Date: 6/9/2014
David H Rosenberg
Attorney ID# 20569
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 238-2000
Fax : (717) 233-3029
E-mail: Rosenberg@hhrlaw.com
Attorney for Plaintiff(s)
DIANA RAIA IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
. NO. 14-1826
TRACEY SPINELLA and LOUIS PHILIP
SPINELLA
. CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Plaintiff(s)
Defendant(s)
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On, June 9, 2014, I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of Plaintiff's Reply to New
Matter was served upon the following by depositing same in the United States Mail, in
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania:
Sharon F. Harvey, Esq.
Connor, Weber & Oberlies
171 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 100
Paoli, PA 19301-1775
Attorney for: Tracey Spinella,
Louis Philip Spinella
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
David H Ro4nberg