HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-5516
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.
P.O. BOX 80
Dillsburg, PA 17019
No OS - S:.l:tL C; l>lLT 82-"",-
Civil Action - (XX) Law
( ) Equity
COMCAR INDUSTRIES. INC.
111 Havendale Blvd.,
P.O. Box 67
Auburndale, FL 33823
and
WilLIS SHAW EXPRESS. INC.
201 N. Elm Street
P.O. Box 188
Elm Springs, AK 72728
and
ALONZO HARRIS
3719 Hwy 261
Colt, AR 72326
versus
Plaintiff(s) &
Address(es)
Defendant(s) &
Address(es)
PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF SUMMONS
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF SAID COURT:
Please issue A Writ of Summons in the above-captioned action.
':'"
L Writ of Summons Shall be issued and forwarded to (
David H Rosenberq, Esquire
1300 Linqlestown Road
Harrisburq. PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Name/Address/Telephone No.
of Attorney
Date: 10/20/05
WRIT OF SUMMONS
TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S):
YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE-NAMED PLAINTIFF(S HAS/HAVE C MENCED AN
ACTION AGAINST YOU.
Date (X3 ;;2'-1, ;:)~
Pr
by
Deputy
( ) Check here if reverse is used for additional information
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RA WLE & HENDERSON LLP
By: Gary N. Stewart
Identification No.: 67353
By: Johnna M. Darby
Identification No.: 94492
25 North Front Street, First Floor
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101
(717) 234-7700
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Attorneys for Defendants,
Comcar Industries, Inc.,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and
Alonzo Harris
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Plaintiff,
v.
CIVIL ACTION
NO: 05-5516
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants.
PRAECIPE FOR RULE TO FILE COMPLAINT
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please enter a rule upon plaintiff to file a complaint within twenty (20) days of service
hereof upon penalty of non pros.
LLP
By:
/
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ary N. Stewart, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants,
Comcar Industries, Inc.,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and
Alonzo Harris
Dated:
RULE TO FILE COMPLAINT
AND NOW this lis, -J.l...day of ./L)OO. ,2005, a rule is entered upon plaintiffs to file a
1230370 v.I
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CERTIFICATION OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on today's date I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing
praecipe for rule to file complaint by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon all attorneys of
record, addressed as follows:
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
1300 Linglestwon Road
Harrisburg, P A 1711 0
N LLP
Dated:/ /----1 ~ b 5'
1230370 v. I
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RA WLE & HENDERSON LLP
By: Gary N. Stewart
Identification No.: 67353
By: Johnna M. Darby
Identification No.: 94492
25 North Front Street, First Floor
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101
(717) 234-7700
Attorneys for Defendants,
Comcar Industries, Inc.,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and
Alonzo Harris
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Plaintiff,
v.
CIVIL ACTION
NO: 05-5516
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants.
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter our appearance on behalf of defendants, Comcar Industries, Inc., Willis
Shaw Express, Inc. and Alonzo Harris, in the above-referenced matter.
RA20N CU'
By:
Gary N. Stewart, Esquire
Johnna M. Darby, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants,
Comcar Industries, Inc.,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and
Alonzo Harris
/
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Date: -/,)---
1230370 v.I
(
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certjfy that on today's date, a true and correct copy of the foregoing entry of
appearance was served by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon all attorneys of record,
addressed as follows:
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
1300 Unglestwon Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
1 ) ..- .--
Dated:);--- /:5 ---0 J
1230370 v.l
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SHERIFF'S RETURN - U.S. CERTIFIED MAIL
CASE NO: 2005-05516 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
STARR THOMAS A JR
VS.
COM CAR INDUSTRIES INC ET AL
R. Thomas Kline
Sheriff
of Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law served the
within named DEFENDANT ,HARRIS ALONZO
by United States Certified Mail postage
prepaid, on the 27th day of October ,2005 at 0000:00 HOURS, at
3719 HWY 261
COLT, AR 72326
a true
and attested copy of the attached WRIT OF SUMMONS
Together
with
The returned
receipt card was signed by PATRICIA LUCAS
11/02/2005
on
Additional Comments:
Docketing
Cert Mail
Affidavit
Surcharge
6.00
4.42
.00
10.00
.00
20.42
So answe;::&7
. .--_-:::::r~ .__- _
/t?~ . ~-;;;.,: ... -
! R. Thomas Kline
Sheriff of Cumberland County
Sheriff's Costs:
Paid by HANDLER HENNING ROSENBERG
on 11/09/2005 .
Sworn and sUbscri~ to ~efore
this It..t~ day of OVefY\W
;:l>0S'" A. D.
~
otho y '1
me
. Complete ttems 1. 2. and 3. Also comp!8te
ttem 4 n Restricle\f Delivery's deslr8d.
. Print your name and address on the reverse
so that we can retum the card to you.
. Attach this card to the back of the mellplece.
or on the front n space permits.
1. ArtIcle Ad_ed to:
Alonzo Harris
3719 Hwy 261
Colt, AR 72326
b'f ("""Lv Nome)
\\
I c.t 0... \I CtL.S
D. Ia do/Iwoy _ _ ftom !tom 11
n YES, enter delIvery add.... below:
3. ServIce'l\lpe
Xlkenmed MsII [J Exprooo MsII
[J Roglstorod [J Return Receipt for MorchandIso
o Insured Mall 0 C.O.D.
4. Restricted DelIvery? (Extra Foo) 0 Yes
7004 1350 0003 7147 5531
05-5516 civil
PS Fonn 3811. August 2001
_ A8tUrh'ROcoIi>I
102595-02-M-1540
.
SHERIFF'S RETURN - U.S. CERTIFIED ~ffiIL
CASE NO: 2005-05516 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
STARR THOMAS A JR
VS.
COM CAR INDUSTRIES INC ET AL
R. Thomas Kline
, Sheriff
of Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law served the
within named DEFENDANT
,COMCAR INDUSTRIES INC
by United States Certified Mail postage
prepaid, on the 27th day of October ,2005 at 0000:00 HOURS, at
III HAVENDALE BLVD
POBOX 67
AUBURNDALE, FL 33823
a true
and attested copy of the attached WRIT OF SUMMONS
Together
with
The returned
receipt card was signed by SIGNATURE NOT LEGIBLE
10/31/2005
on
Additional Comments:
Docketing
Cert Mail
Postage
Surcharge
18.00
4.42
.37
10.00
.00
32.79
So an~~s:~ ---
--~'-;> ...--- .~-----
~~~4~
R. Thomas Kline
Sheriff of Cumberland County
Sheriff's Costs:
Paid by HANDLER HENNING ROSENBERG
on 11/09/2005 .
Sworn
this
?JJOr;
and subscribed to before
\(,A\.- day of A)IlVUn W
AD~
p4~n 'a;
me
. Compllfle It8ms 1. 2. and 3. AiSO compiet8
Item 4 n Restricted DelI.-y Is desIred.
. Print your name and address on the reverse
so that we can retum the card to you.
. Attach this card to the back of the mallplece.
or on the front n space pennlts.
1. ArtIcle Addressed to:
~
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3. ServIce ~
,. CertIfIed Mall [] Exprees Mall
[] RegIslered [] Return R_pt for MerohandI.O
D. Insured Mall D C.O.D.
4. Restricted DelIvery? (Bdta Foe) [] Ve.
7004 1350 0003 7147 5517
05-5516 civil
PS Fonn 3811. August 2001
Domestic Roturn RocoIpt
"r.
102595-02.M.1540
SHERIFF'S RETURN - U.S. CERTIFIED MAIL
CASE NO: 2005-05516 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
STARR THOMAS A JR
VS.
COMCAR INDUSTRIES INC ET AL
R. Thomas Kline
, Sheriff
of Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law served the
within named DEFENDANT
,SHAW WILLIS EXPRESS INC
by United States Certified Mail postage
prepaid, on the 27th day of October ,2005 at 0000:00 HOURS, at
201 N ELM STREET
POBOX 188
ELM SPRINGS, AK 72728
a true
and attested copy of the attached WRIT OF SUMMONS
Together
with
The returned
receipt card was signed by GORDON SLAUGHTER
11/01/2005
on
Additional Comments:
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing
Cert Mail
Affidavit
Surcharge
6.00
4.42
.00
10.00
.00
20.42
So ans",,,,r,,,,: ....--/ ..... .. c------
.~~~~~.
~~ T~~mas Klin;
Sheriff of Cumberland County
Paid by HANDLER HENNING ROSENBERG
on 11/09/2005 .
Sworn and sUbscriRfd toLbefore
tp,is, /Iof~ day of DVU'f\fH.1
;)l}:)) . A. D .
,r{j.t:lfiGi!;
me
. Complete ttems 1. 2. and 3. Also complete
Item 4 W Restricted DeliveIy Is desired.
. Print your name and address on tha revarse
so that we can retum tha card to you.
. Attach this card to the back of the mallplece.
or on the front if space permits.
1. Article Addroned to:
Willis Shaw Express Inc
201 N. Elm Street
ro Box 188
Elm Springs, AI< 72728
3. -lW>e
XJ@i CertlIIed Moll [J Expreoo MOil
[J RegIstered [J Rotum Receipt fer MerchllndIso
[J Insured MlliI [J C.O.D.
4. Restricted Oelivery? (8cf1a Fee) [J Yes
PS Form 3811. August 2001
7004 1350 0003 7147 5524
Domestic Return Receipt
102595-02-Af.1540
05-5516 civil
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
NO. 05-5516
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - ILAW
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 OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR
TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN
GET LEGAL HELP.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, PA 17013
Telephone 717-249-3166 or 800-990..9108
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
By
David osenberg. Esq.
1.0.# 569
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisbur~l, PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
F:\WP DirectoriesWFL\complaints\mva\lose wheel\starr.wpd
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
NO. 05-5516
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
COMPLAINT
AND NOW comes the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. by and through his attorneys,
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP. by David H Hosenberg, Esq.. and makes
the within Complaint againstthe Defendants, Comcar Industries, Inc.. Willis Shaw Express,
Inc. and Alonzo Harris. and avers as follows:
1. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr., is an adult individual currently residing at P.O.
Box 80, Dillsburg. York County, Pennsylvania 17019.
2. Defendant. Alonzo Harris, is an adult individual currently residing at 3719
Highway 261. Colt. Arizona. 72326.
3. Defendant, Willis Shaw Express. Inc., is a corporation currently doing
business at 201 North Elm Street, P.O. Box 188. Elm Springs. Arkansas 72728.
Defendant. Willis Shaw Express. Inc., regularly conducts business within the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
4. Defendant. Comcar Industries. Inc.. is a corporaltion currently doing business
at 111 Havendale Boulevard. P.O. Box 67, Auburndale. Florida 33823. Defendant,
Comcar Industries. Inc.. regularly conducts business within the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania.
5. At all times material hereto, Defendant. Willis Shaw Express, Inc., was a
subsidiary of Defendant. Comcar Industries. Inc.
6. At all times material hereto. Defendant, Alonzo Harris, was an agent, servant,
and/or employee of Defendant. Willis Shaw Express, Inc.. and was acting within the scope
of said employment.
7. At all times material hereto. Defendant. Alonzo Harris. was an agent, servant.
and/or employee of Defendant, Comcar Industries, Inc., and was acting within the scope
of said employment.
8. At all times material hereto. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. was insured by
Geico Insurance Company. Said policy included the full tort option pursuant to 75 Pa.
C.SA ~ 1705.
9. At all times material hereto. Plaintiff. Thomas A Starr, Jr., was the operator
of a commercial van (hereinafter, "Plaintiffs vehicle").
10. At all times material hereto. Plaintiffs vehicle was owned by his employer,
Point Springs & Driveshaft company.
11. At all times material hereto, Defendant, Alonzo Harris. was the operator of
a 1999 Volvo truck. bearing Idaho registration number AE 4691 (hereinafter, "Defendant's
vehicle").
12. At all times material hereto. Defendant's vehicle was owned by his employer,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and/or Comcar Industries. Inc.
2
13. At all times material hereto. there were. the weather condition was rainy and
the road condition was wet.
14. On or about November 6. 2003, at about 1 :50 p.m., Plaintiffs vehicle was
traveling northbound on Interstate 81 in Southampton Township, Franklin County,
Pennsylvania.
15. On or about November 6, 2003, at about 1 :50 p.m., Defendant. Alonzo
Harris. was traveling southbound on Interstate 81 in Southampton Township. Franklin
County. Pennsylvania.
16. At approximately the same time and place. Defendant's vehicle lost its dual
wheels from the left side rear of the trailer.
17. At approximately the same time and place. the wheels traveled across the
median and violently struck Plaintiff's driver's side door.
18. As a direct and proximate result of Defendant's wheels negligently falling off
of Defendant's truck, Plaintiffs vehicle swung counter clockwise, coming to a final rest in
the median facing south.
19. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of the Defendants, Comcar
Industries. Inc., Willis Shaw Express. Inc. and Alonzo Harris. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr..
sustained extensive injuries as set forth more specifically be,low.
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
THOMAS A. STARR. JR. v. ALONZO HARRIS
20. Paragraphs 1-19 are incorporated herein as if set forth at length.
3
21. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and the resultant injuries to
the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. were caused directly and proximately by the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris, generally and more specifically as set forth below:
(a) In failing to properly and timely inspect, maintain, and correct the
dangerous condition of Defendant's vehicle;
(b) In failing to properly and timely mend and/or make
repairs/adjustments to said dangerous condition of Defendant's
vehicle;
(c) In allowing its truck to be operated when it had worn out/burned up
bearings at the hub;
(d) In allowing Defendant's vehicle to be operated when it had worn
out/burned up bearings at the hub;
(e) In permitting Defendant's vehicle to be operated on Interstate 81 when
it was in an unsafe condition and/or in violation of Department of
Transportation regulations. in violation of 75 Pa. C.SA S 41 07(b)(2);
(f) In failing to properly inspect, maintain and replace the worn
out/burned up bearings at the hub;
(g) In failing to operate Defendant's vehiclle at a speed that was safe
for existing conditions, in violation of 75 Pa. C.SA S 3361;
(h) In failing to have sufficient control of Defendant's vehicle, which would
have allowed the vehicle to be stopped before doing injury to any
person or thing likely to arise under the circumstances;
4
(i) In operating Defendant's vehicle when it was in a such a condition as
it was likely it would cause an accident. in violation of Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations S 396.7(a);
U) In failing to concern himself with the inspection and/or maintenance
of Defendant's vehicle, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations S 396.1;
(k) I n failing to systematically inspect. repair and maintain, or cause to be
systematically inspected, repaired and maintained. Defendant's
vehicle that was under his control. in violation of Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations S 396.3(a)(1);
(I) In operating a commercial motor vehicle without satisfying himself that
the worn out/burned up bearings at the hub were in good working
order, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations S
392.7;
(m) In failing to have knowledge of and comply with the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations S 390.3(e)(2)-(3); and
(n) In otherwise violating the laws. statulles, and regulations of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania regarding the maintenance of
Defendant's trucks.
5
22. As a direct and proximate result of the negli!lenCe of Defendant, Alonzo
Harris. the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., sustained serious personal injuries including. but
not limited to. a sprain/strain to his cervical and lumbar spine and mild upper extremity
paresthesis.
23. As a direct and proximate result of the negli!lence of Defendant. Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has been, and will in the future be, hindered from
performing his daily duties and chores. to his great loss, humiliation and embarrassment.
24. As a direct and proximate result of the negli~lence of Defendant, Alonzo
Harris. the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. has suffered lost wages and will in the future
continue to suffer a loss of income andlor loss of earning capacity.
25. As a direct and proximate result of the negli~lence of Defendant. Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered great physical pain. discomfort and
mental anguish and will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the
future. to his great physical, emotional and financial detriment and loss.
26. As a direct and proximate result of the negli~lence of Defendant, Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr., has been compelled, and will in the future be
compelled, in order to effect a cure for the aforementioned injuries, to expend money for
medicine and medical attention to his great detriment and loss.
27. As a direct and proximate result of the negli~lence of Defendant, Alonzo
Harris. the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered a loss of life's pleasures and he will
continue to suffer the same in the future. to his great detriml3nt and loss.
28. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. believes and. therefore, avers that his injuries
are permanent and serious in nature.
6
WHEREFORE. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. seeks damages from the Defendant,
Alonzo Harris. in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland
County exclusive of interest and costs.
COUNT II - VICARIOUS LIABILITY
THOMAS A. STARR. JR. v. WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS. INC.
29. Paragraphs 1-28 are incorporated herein as if set forth at length.
30. At all times material to this action. Defendant. Alonzo Harris. was an agent.
servant, and/or employee of Defendant, Willis Shaw Express, Inc.
31. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and the resultant injuries to
the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr., were caused directly and proximately by the negligence
of Defendant, Willis Shaw Express. Inc., generally and more specifically as set forth below:
(a) In allowing and/or requiring Defendant. Alonzo Harris. to operate
the aforesaid vehicle on its behalf when it knew or reasonably should
have known that he was an inexperienGed, unlicensed. unqualified,
unsafe, unfit. tired and/or careless drivEir;
(b) In failing to establish proper policies, procedures and/or standards to
determine whether its potential or actual agents. servants. workers.
contractors, sub-contractors and/or employees. such as Defendant,
Alonzo Harris. were fit and capable of properly performing the
requirements of their respective employment;
7
(c) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies. procedures and/or
standards with regard to the number of hours worked by its agents,
servants. workers. contractors. sub-contractors and/or employees such
as Defendant, Alonzo Harris;
(d) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies. procedures and/or
standards with regard to the conditions and circumstances under
which its agents, servants, workers, contractors, sub-contractors
and/or employees. such as Defendant, Alonzo Harris. were permitted
to drive a vehicle on Defendant's behalf;
(e) In allowing and/or requiring Defendant. Alonzo Harris. to operate
the aforesaid vehicle with a gross vehicle weight in excess of the
prescribed and/or legal limit;
(f) In establishing improper andlor unsafe policies, procedures and/or
standards with regard to the gross vehiele weight of trucks operated
by its agents. servants. workers, contractors, sub-contractors and/or
employees such as Defendant, Alonzo Harris;
(g) In allowing its truck to be operated when it had worn out/burned up
bearings at the hub;
(h) In permitting its truck to be operated on Interstate 81 when it was
in an unsafe condition and/or in violation of Department of Trans-
portation regulations. in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. S 4107(b)(2);
(i) In failing to properly inspect. maintain and repair the worn out/burned
up bearings at the hub;
8
U) In allowing its vehicle to be operated when it was in a such a condition
as it was likely it would cause an accident, in violation of Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 9 396.7(a);
(k) In failing to concern itself with the inspection and/or maintenance of
its vehicle, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 9
396.1;
(I) In failing to systematically inspect, repair and maintain. or cause to be
systematically inspected, repaired and maintained. its vehicle that was
under its employee's control. in violation of Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations 9 396.3(a)(1); and
(m) In failing to have knowledge of and comply with the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations 9 390.3(e)(1).
32. The aforementioned negligent. careless, and/or reckless conduct of
Defendant. Alonzo Harris. occurred while acting in and upon the business of Defendant,
Willis Shaw Express. Inc.. and within the course and scope of his employment with said
Defendant.
33. Defendant, Willis Shaw Express, Inc., is vicariously liable for the extensive
and personal injuries suffered by Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. .Jr.. which include. but are not
limited to. a sprain/strain to his cervical and lumbar spine and mild upper extremity
paresthesis.
9
34. As a direct and proximate result of the neglig<ence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. has suffered great physical pain. discomfort, and mental anguish, and
will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the future. to his great
physical. emotional. and financial detriment and loss.
35. As a direct and proximate result of the neglig,ence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered lost wages and will in the future continue to suffer a loss
of income and/or loss of earning capacity.
36. As a direct and proximate result of the negligIence of Defendant. Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has been compelled, in order to eff,ect a cure for the aforesaid
injuries. to spend money for medicine andlor medical attention, and will be required to
expend money for the same purposes in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
37. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has been. and probably will in the futurE! be, hindered from attending
to his daily duties. to his great detriment. loss. humiliation. and embarrassment.
38. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered a loss of life's pleasures, and will continue to endure the
same in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
39. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr., believes and, therefore, avers that his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
40. Defendant is vicariously liable forthe great physical, emotional, and financial
loss Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr., has suffered and will continue to endure for an indefinite
period of time in the future.
10
41. Defendant is vicariously liable for the expenses Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr.,
has been compelled. in order to effect a cure for the aforesaid injuries. to spend for
medicine and/or medical attention. and will be required to expend money for the same
purposes in the future. to his great detriment and loss.
42. Defendant is vicariously liableforthe considerable amount of wages Plaintiff.
Thomas A. Starr. Jr., has lost and the future loss of income and/or loss of earning capacity
that will be sustained.
43. Defendant is vicariously liable for hindering Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr.,
from attending to his daily duties, to his great detriment. loss. humiliation. and
embarrassment.
44. Defendant is vicariously liable for the great detriment and loss Plaintiff.
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered and will continue to suffer, from losing life's pleasures.
45. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., believes and, thmefore. avers that his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., seeks damages from Defendant.
Willis Shaw Express. Inc.. in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of
Cumberland County exclusive of interest and costs.
COUNT III - VICARIOUS LIABILITY
THOMAS A. STARR. JR. v. COMCAR INDUSTRIES. INC.
46. Paragraphs 1-45 are incorporated herein as if set forth at length.
11
47. At all times material to this action, Defendant. Alonzo Harris, was an agent,
servant, and/or employee of Defendant. Comcar Industries, Inc.
48. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and the resultant injuries to
the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., were caused directly and proximately by the negligence
of Defendant, Comcar Industries, Inc.. generally and more specifically as set forth below:
(a) In allowing and/or requiring Defendant. Alonzo Harris, to operate
the aforesaid vehicle on its behalf when it knew or reasonably should
have known that he was an inexperienced. unlicensed. unqualified,
unsafe. unfit. tired and/or careless driver;
(b) In failing to establish proper policies, procedures and/or standards to
determine whether its potential or actual agents, servants, workers,
contractors, sub-contractors and/or employees. such as Defendant,
Alonzo Harris. were fit and capable of properly performing the
requirements of their respective employment;
(c) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies, procedures and/or
standards with regard to the number of hours worked by its agents,
servants. workers, contractors. sub-contractors and/or employees such
as Defendant, Alonzo Harris;
(d) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies. procedures and/or
standards with regard to the conditions and circumstances under
which its agents. servants. workers. contractors. sub-contractors
12
and/or employees, such as Defendant, Alonzo Harris, were permitted
to drive a vehicle on Defendant's behalf;
(e) In allowing and/or requiring Defendanlt. Alonzo Harris, to operate
the aforesaid vehicle with a gross vehicle weight in excess of the
prescribed and/or legal limit;
(f) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies, procedures and/or
standards with regard to the gross vehide weight of trucks operated
by its agents, servants. workers. contractors. sub-contractors and/or
employees such as Defendant, Alonzo Harris;
(g) In allowing its truck to be operated when it had worn out/burned up
bearings at the hub;
(h) In permitting its truck to be operated on Interstate 81 when it was
in an unsafe condition and/or in violation of Department of Trans-
portation regulations. in violation of 75 Pa. C.SA S 4107(b)(2); and
(i) In failing to properly inspect, maintain and repair the worn out/burned
up bearings at the hub;
U) In allowing its vehicle to be operated when it was in a such a condition
as it was likely it would cause an accident. in violation of Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations S 396.7(a);
(k) In failing to concern itself with the inspection andlor maintenance of
its vehicle, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations S
396.1;
13
(I) In failing to systematically inspect, repair and maintain, orcause to be
systematically inspected, repaired and maintained. its vehicle that was
under its employee's control, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations 9 396.3(a)(1); and
(m) In failing to have knowledge of and comply with the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations. in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations 9 390.3(e)(1).
49. The aforementioned negligent. careless. and/or reckless conduct of
Defendant, Alonzo Harris, occurred while acting in and upon the business of Defendant,
Comcar Industries, Inc.. and within the course and scope of his employment with said
Defendant.
50. Defendant. Comcar Industries. Inc.. is vicariously liable forthe extensive and
personal injuries suffered by Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., which include, but are not
limited to, a sprain/strain to his cervical and lumbar spine and mild upper extremity
paresthesis.
51. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has suffered great physical pain. discomfort, and mental anguish, and
will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the future, to his great
physical. emotional. and financial detriment and loss.
52. As a direct and proximate result of the neglig'ence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered lost wages and will in the future continue to suffer a loss
of income andlor loss of earning capacity.
14
53. As a direct and proximate result of the neglig1ence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr., has been compelled. in order to effl3ct a cure for the aforesaid
injuries. to spend money for medicine and/or medical attention, and will be required to
expend money for the same purposes in the future. to his great detriment and loss.
54. As a direct and proximate result of the neglig,ence of Defendant. Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has been. and probably will in the future be, hindered from attending
to his daily duties. to his great detriment, loss, humiliation, and embarrassment.
55. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered a loss of life's pleasures. and will continue to endure the
same in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
56. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., believes and. thEirefore. avers that his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
57. Defendant is vicariously liable for the great physical. emotional, and financial
loss Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered and will continue to endure for an indefinite
period of time in the future.
58. Defendant is vicariously liableforthe expenses Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr.,
has been compelled. in order to effect a cure for the aforesaid injuries, to spend for
medicine and/or medical attention. and will be required to 13xpend money for the same
purposes in the future. to his great detriment and loss.
59. Defendant is vicariously liable forthe considerable amount of wages Plaintiff.
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has lost and the future loss of income and/or loss of earning capacity
that will be sustained.
15
60. Defendant is vicariously liable for hindering Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr..
from attending to his daily duties. to his great detriment. loss, humiliation, and
embarrassment.
61. Defendant is vicariously liable for the great detriment and loss Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered and will continue to suffer. from losing life's pleasures.
62. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., believes and. therefore. avers that his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. seeks damages from Defendant.
Comcar Industries. Inc., in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of
Cumberland County exclusive of interest and costs.
Respectfully submitted.
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
Date: 1;2~l.o"07
By:
David Rosenberg, Esquire
Attor ey I.D.. # 20569
1390 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
16
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.
~o
-- / c.......-~
Thomas A. Starr, Jr.
c.:::;:-
Date:
I / - ;J.. 0 -(5 D
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
NO. 05-5516
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants
: CIVIL ACTION - ILAW
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 20th day of December, 2005, I hereby certify that a true and correct copy
of Plaintiffs Complaint was served upon the following by depositing in U.S. Mail;
Johnna M. Darby, Esq.
Rawle & Henderson, LLP
25 North Front Street, 1 st Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Respectfully submitted,
Id/~o-
DATE
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
l'
Davl H senberg, Esquire
I.D. #20 69
1300 nglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
o
"1.
r' :-.1
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C)
CO
RA WLE & HENDERSON LLP
By: Gary N. Stewart
Identification No.: 67353
By: Johnna M. Darby
Identification No.: 94492
25 North Front Street, First Floor
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101
(717) 234-7700
Attorneys for Defendants,
Corncar Industries, Inc.,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and
Alonzo Harris
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Plaintiff,
v.
CIVIL ACTION
NO: 05-5516
COM CAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants.
NOTICE OF REMOVAL
TO FEDERAL COURT PURSUANT TO 28 U.S.c. & 1446(d)
TO THE CLERK OF THE COURT:
Pursuant to 28 D.S.C. 9 1446(d), defendants Comcar Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw
Express, Inc. and Alonzo Harris file herewith a copy of the Notice of Removal of Action which
has been filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania on
January 5, 2006.
Dated: l/Lt Ie 0
RA WlJi & HENDERSON LLP
I,.l
./ .
By:\< .'
j Gary N. Ste art, squire
Johnna M. Darby~ Esquire
Attorneys for Dete~
L Comcar Industries, Inc., .
Willis Shaw Express, and
Alonzo Harris
--
1246236 v.I
~
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that a true and correct copy of the within-captioned
Notice of Removal Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. S1446( d) was served via first-class mail, postage
prepaid, on the following:
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, P A 17110
Attorney for Plaintiff
RA WLE & HENDERSON LLP
(<c:k ({ {(J!?0.~D7 (/2{1
Gary N. Stewart, Esquire 1
Johnna M. Darby, E~L-~1--~
"
/ (
Dated: If {j /{ 0
1246236 v.l
. --- --
EXHIBIT" A"
.- - ---_..-'"!-.. ~_.. ..
------
CIVIL COVER SHEET
~ JS 44 civil cover sheet and the information contained herein neither replace nor supplement the filing and service of pleadings or other papers as required by law, except as provided
ocal rules of court This form, approved by the Judicial Conference 09f the United States in September 1974, is required for the use of the Clerk of Court for the purpose of initiating
civil dOcKet !'heet. (SEE INSTRUCTIONS ON THE REVERSE OF THE FORM,)
3) PLAINTIFFS
Thomas A. Starr, Jr.
DEFENDANTS
Com Car Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw Express. Inc. and
Alonzo Harris
b) COUNTY OF RESIDENCE OF FIRST LISTED PLAINTIFF Cumbe.r1af1d
(EXCEPT IN us. PLAINTIFF CASESl
c) ATTORNEYS (FIRM NAME, ADDRESS, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER)
COUNTY OF RESIDENCE OF FiRST LISTED DEFENDANT
(IN u.s. PLAINTIFF CASES ONLY) -
NOTE' IN LAND CONDEMNATION CAses, USE THE lOCATION OF THE TRACT
OF LAND INVOLVED
ATTORNEYS (IF KNOWN) Gary N. Stewart. Esq.
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
-{andler, Henning & Rosenberg LLP.
300 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg, PA 17110
717) 238-2000
Rawle & Henderson, LLP
25 N. Front SI., 1" Fir.
Harrisburg, PA 17101
(717) 234-7700
(PLACE AN "X" IN ONE BOX ONLY)
III. CITIZENSHIP OF PRINCIPAL PARTIES
For diversity cases only (PLACE AN 'X" IN ONE BOX FOR
PLAINFIFF AND ONE BOX FOR
DEFENDAND
BASIS OF JURISDICTION
] 1. U.S. Government 0 3.
Plaintiff
Federal Question
{U.S. Government Not a Party)
Original
Proceeding
1812 Removed from
S\aleCol.lrl
[J3 Remanded from
Appellate Court
04 Reinstatedor
Reopened
prF DEF prF OEF
Citizen ofTllisSlale IllII 01 Incorporated or Principal Place of 0' 0'
8usiness inlf1is State
Citizen ofAnolllerState 02 02 Incorporated or Principal P~ace of 05 1!l5
Business in Another State
CitizenorSubjectofa 03 03 Foreign Nalion 0' 0'
ForeinnCounirv
App.alto DI.tric;t
D 5 Transferreolrom o 6 MullidistJicl 07 Judge from Magistrate
anotherdistrid(Specify) Utigatlon Judgment
] 2. U,S. Government
Defendant
[8J 4. Diversity
(Indicate Citizenship of Parties in Item III)
ORIGIN
(PLACE AN "X" IN ONE BOX ONLY)
NATURE OF SUIT
(PLACE AN "X" IN ONE BOX ONLY)
CONTRACT TORTS FORFEITUREI BANKRUPTCY OTHER STATUTES
PENALTY
Olflsurance PERSONAL 'NJURY PERSONAL INJURY oS10Agricultu,-. 0422 Appeal 28 USC 158 0400 State R...pportionment
o Marine 0310 Airpla"e 0362 P.rsonlllnjury.. 0620 Other Food&Ol1Jg 0423 Withdrawal 28 USC 157 0410 Antitrus.t
0315 AkplaM ProGuct Med Malprlctlc:. 0625 Drug Related Seizure 0430 Ba.nks and Banking
o Miller Act
LIability 0365 Pusonll Injury.. of Property 21, use 881 0450 CommercellCC Ratul~(;.
o NeyctiiIDle Instrumanl 0320 Asnult, Llb.1 & Product Liability 0630 Liquor Laws PROPERTY RIGHTS 0460 Deportation
QRecovery of OI/9rf1ayrnent Slander 0368 Asbestos Personal 0640 R.R. & Truck 0820 Copyrights 0470 Rleketeer Influenced. and
EnforcemenlofJudgment 0330F.deral Injury Product LIability
1 Medicare Act Employ.r'5Liability 0660 AirflM RIgs 0830 Patent Corrupt Organizations
2 Recovery of Defaulled 0340 Marine OOcc:upational 0840 Trademar1l 0810 Sel.ctive Servie.
PERSONAL PROPERTY Sa'ety/Hulth 0850 S.curitiesJCommoclitiul
.JdentLoans(Exc. Veterans) 0346 Marin. Product 0370 Olher Fraud
Exchange
3 Recovery 01 Overpayment Liability 037i Trulhinlending SOCIAL SECURITY 0876 Custom.r Challenge 12
Veteran's8enefits LABOR
181350 Motor Vehicle USC3410
Q Stockholder'sSuits 0380 Otl1er Personal
0355 Motor Vehicle Property Damage 0710 Fair Labor Standards 0861HIA(1395FF) 0891 Agricl.llturalActs
J Otl1erContract Product Liability
0385 Property Damage A" 0862 Bla(;k Lung (923) 0892 Ec;onomic Stabilization Act
5 ContraCI Product Liability 0360 Other Person,l ProduclLiability 0720 Labor/M;mt, Rela.tions
Injurv 0863 DIWCfDIWW (405(g)) 0893 Elwironmental Matters
0730 LaborlMgmt. 0864 SSID Titl. XVI 0894 EtlerlilY Alloution Aet
REAL PROPERTY CIVIL RIGHTS PRISONER Reporting & Disclosure Act
PETITIONS 0740 Railway Labor Ac;t 0865RIS{405(g)) 0895 Freedom of Information Act
0790 Other Labor Litigation 0900 Appeal of F.. Determjn~tion
Oland Col'\demnation 0441 Voting 0510 Motions to Vacat. FEDERAL TAX SUITS Under Equal Acces. to Justice
o Forec;losu,-. 0442 Employment Stlnhnn 0791 Empl. Ret. Inc;. 0960 Constitutionality of
0443 Housingl HABEAS CORPUS: Security Act Stat. Statutu
o Rent L.ase & Ejectment DS70 Taus IU.5. P'Iilintiff
o Torts to L.and Acc;ommodations DUO GeMral orOefendantj 0890 Other Statutory Actions
5 Tort Product LiabiUty 0444 Welfare 0635 O."tn Penalty Q871IRS _ Third Party
o All Oth.r Rul Property 0440 Other Civil Rights 0540 Mandamus & Other 26 USC7609
0550CivilR.l;hts
CAUSE OF ACTION (CITE THE U.S. CIVIL STATURE UNDER WHICH YOU ARE FILING AND WRITE
RIEF STATEMENT OF CAUSE)
U.S.C. 1332 & 1446(d) - pendina removal
REQUESTED IN o CHECK IF THIS IS A CLASS ACTION DEMAND $ CHECK YES only if demanded in complaint
COMPLAINT: UNDER F.R.C.P.23 JURY DEMAND: I8'lYES o NO
RELATED CASE(S) IF ANY I ~OCKETNUMBER
(See Instructions): JUDGE
:; 1/5/06 SIGNATURE OF ATTOR.NEY OF RECORD
OFFICE use ONLY
::IP1.
A.MOUNT $
APPLYING IFP
JUDGe
MAG. JUOGE
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF PENNSYL VANIA
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Plaintiff,
CIVIL ACTION NO:
v.
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants.
NOTICE OF REMOVAL
To the Honorable Judges in the United States District Court for the Middle
District of Pennsylvania
Defendants Comcar Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and Alonzo
Harris (collectively, "Defendants") by and through their attorneys, Rawle &
Henderson LLP, respectfully aver as follows:
1. Plaintiff Thomas A. Starr commenced a civil action by a Praecipe for
Writ of Summons against Defendants in the Court of Common Pleas of
l246294v,{
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania on or about October 24,2005, as a result of a
November 6, 2003 motor vehicle accident. See Exhibit "A"-plaintiffs' Praecipe
for Writ of Summons.
2. On or about November 15, 2005, Defendants caused to be filed a
Praecipe for Rule to File Complaint in the Court of Common Pleas for Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania. See Exhibit "B" - Praecipe for Rule to File Complaint.
3. On or about November 15,2005, Defendants served plaintiff with the
Rule to File Complaint. See Exhibit "B."
4. On or about December 20, 2005, plaintiff filed his Complaint. See
Exhibit "C" - Plaintiffs Complaint.
5. In the complaint, plaintiff alleges, inter alia, that he sustained the
following serious and permanent personal injuries as a result of the motor vehicle
accident at issue herein:
( a) as a direct and proximate result of the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris, the Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., sustained serious personal
injuries including, but not limited to, a
sprain/strain to his cervical and lumbar spine and
mild upper extremity paresthesis.
(b) as a direct and proximate result of the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris, the Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has been, and will in the
future be, hindered from performing his daily
duties and chores, to his great loss, humiliation
and embarrassment.
(c) as a direct and proximate result of the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris, the Plaintiff,
1246294 v.l
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has suffered lost wages and
will in the future continue to suffer a loss of
income and/or loss of earning capacity.
(d) as a direct and proximate result of the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris, the Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has suffered great physical
pain, discomfort and mental anguish and will
continue to endure the same for an indefinite
period of time in the future, to his great physical,
emotional and financial detriment and loss.
(e) as a direct and proximate result of the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris, the Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has been compelled, and
will in the future be compelled, in order to effect
a cure for the aforementioned injuries, to expend
money for medicine and medical attention to his
great detriment and loss.
(f) as a direct and proximate result of the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris, the Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has suffered a loss of life's
pleasures and he will continue to suffer the same
in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
(g) Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., believes and,
therefore, avers that his injuries and permanent
and serious in nature.
See Exhibit "C" - plaintiffs complaint.
In the complaint, plaintiff Thomas A. Starr also alleges that
defendants Willis Shaw Expre$s, Inc. and Comcar Industries, Inc. are
vicariously liable for the alleged negligence, carelessness and recklessness
of defendant Alonzo Harris. See Exhibit "C" - plaintiffs complaint ~29-62.
1246294 v I
6. Based upon a fair reading of the complaint, plaintiffs have set
forth a claim in which an amount in excess of the jurisdictional limit of
$75,000, exclusive of interests and costs, may be at stake.
7. At all times material hereto, defendant Comcar Industries, Inc.
is a Florida corporation with its principal place of business in Aubumdale,
Florida.
8. At all times material hereto, defendant Willis Shaw Express,
Inc. is an Arkansas corporation with its principal place of business in Elm
Springs, Arkansas.
9. At all times material hereto, and upon information and belief,
defendant Alonzo Harris is a citizen, resident and domiciliary of the State of
Arizona and resides in Colt, Arizona.
10. Plaintiff Thomas A. Starr is and was a citizen, resident and
domiciliary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and resides in Dillsburg,
Pennsylvania. See Exhibit "C" - plaintiffs complaint ~l.
11. Diversity of citizenship within the meaning of 28 D.S.C. ~ 1332
exists between plaintiffs and defendants since:
a. Plaintiff is a citizen, resident and domiciliary of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; and
1246294 v.1
b. Defendants are not citizens of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania.
12. Furthermore, since diversity of citizenship existed at the time
the action sought to be removed was commenced and continues through the
time of filing of this notice, Defendants are entitled to removal pursuant to
28 D.S.C. g1441, as amended, and 28 U.S.C. g1446.
13. This notice of removal is being filed within 30 days of the date
the plaintiffs' complaint was filed and within 30 days of the date the
plaintiffs' complaint was served.
14. Venue is properly laid in this district because the action sought
to be removed is proper under 28 U.S.C. g1446 (a).
1246294 v.1
WHEREFORE. defendants Comcar Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw Express,
Inc. and Alonzo Harris pray that the above captioned action now pending in the
Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania be removed
therefrom to this Honorable Court.
RA WLE & HENDERSON LLP
By: /s/
Gary N. Stewart, Esquire
Identification No. 67353
Johnna M. Darby, Esquire
Identification No. 94492
Attorney for Defendants,
Comcar Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw
Express, Inc. and Alonzo Harris
25 North Front Street, First Floor
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101
gstewart@rawle.com
jdarby@rawle.com
(717) 234-7700
(717) 234-7710
Our File No.: 250129
Date: 1/5/06
1246294 v.I
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that a true and correct copy of the within-
captioned Notice of Removal was filed electronically with the Clerk of the District
Court using its CM/ECF system, which would then electronically notify the
following CMIECF participants on this case:
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLP
1300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Attorney for Plaintiff
RA WLE & HENDERSON LLP
By: /s/
Gary N. Stewart
Dated:
1/5/06
1246294 v.]
Page I of2
Gary Stewart
From: PAMDEfilingstat@pamd.uscourts.gov
Sent: Friday, January 06, 200610:05 AM
To: pamd_ecf_nef@pamd.uscourts.gov
Subject: Activity in Case 1 :06-cv-00026-CCC-JAS Starr v. Comcar Industries, Inc. et al "Notice of Removai"
***NOTE TO PUBLIC ACCESS USERS*** You may view the filed documents once without
charge. To avoid later charges, download a copy of each document during this first viewing.
U.S. District Court
Middle District of Pennsylvania
Notice of Electronic Filing
The following transaction was received from Gary N. Stewart entered on 1/6/2006 at 10:02 AM EST
and filed on 1/5/2006
Case Name: Starr v. Comcar Industries, Inc. et al
Case Number: Htli-_cv-2n
Filer: Alonzo Harris
Willis Shaw Express, Inc.
Comcar Industries, Inc.
Document Number: 2.
Docket Text:
NOTICE OF REMOVAL by Comcar Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw Express, Inc., Alonzo Harris (Filing
fee $ 250 receipt number 333 104655), filed by Comcar Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw Express, Inc.,
Alonzo Harris. (Attachments: # (1) Civil Cover Sheet # (2) Exhibit(s))(crh,)
The following document(s) are associated with this transaction:
Document description:Main Document
Original filename:nla
Electronic document Stamp:
[STAMP dcecfStamp_ID=1027698419 [Date=1/6/2006] [FileNumber=1060435-0]
[587bfaf4bI20b3e0023eada835d3ab9667e27lf7250c675e3l03c92e67ge8alc6e75
8a6l0b54c4cb4lf9d59294de72056625d6lbb072365ab184a7cbd22cl4dfj]
Document description:Civil Cover Sheet
Original filename:nla
Electronic document Stamp:
[STAMP dcecfStamp_ID=1027698419 [Date=i16/2006] [FileNumber=1060435-1]
[32alece507aOd15e7d7bb5d938add3b27dObc3c3adce91e5960033fOOl8492l35761
10842le575abOda2363992991e828b87f34073bafbc60d70elc2852866c5]]
Document description:Exhibit(s)
Original filename:nla
Electronic document Stamp:
[STAMP dcecfStamp_ID=10276984l9 [Date=i16/2006] [FileNumber=1060435-2]
1/6/2006
EXHIBIT "A"
'1
IN lHE COURT OF COQON PlEAS
CUMBERlAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.
P.O. BOX SO
DllIsburg. PA 17019
No OS - S'~1.b.
Ciyil Action. (XX) Law
( ) EquIty
COMCAR INDUSTRIes, INC.
111 Havendale B"'d.,
PO. Box 67
Auoumdale. Fl 33823
9I1d
c.luL'-r~
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS,INC.
291 N, Elm SlI'eet
P,O. Box 188
Elm Springs. AK 72728
,",
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and
,
......
ALONZO HARRIS
3719 Hwy 261
Coil. AR 72326
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ver-u.
.,
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,".
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Plaintill(s) &
Addres&(",,)
Derendant(s) &
Address(es) .
:,-!
".
PIVll:CIPE FOR WRIT OF SUMMONS
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF SAID COURT:
Please issue A \i\Ilit of SUmlllOl\5 in the eboulH:lIPtioned aelion.
lL. Wril of Summons Shell be issued 1100 100000rded to (
Court 10 No.~
TR.H: COpy ~ROM nn.::::.;v')
Dale: 10120105 : ." ;;;..,o(,I'VW~d1llQf.1 hl:f..;IIIl(u roD! I~,.t ,...rlll.
:'J 'JIJ'i! uC SIIl'I/;.'OJfl !l CaJ'11:;19. fe.
WRIT OF SUMMONS .;g;::dap ~;:-~'.'~
TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): ~ ,'(.'~~''''ry
David H Flosenbero Esoulre
1300 Linole.tawn Road
Harrisbul'll, PA 17110
[7171 238-2000
NemelAddressrr e1ephone No.
01 AllDrney
Dale Or-+. .:J4 .J .-Y.> <'"
.
Oep~ly
( ) Check here .1 rev...." is used lor additIonal InformatIon
PAOTI-ION . 55
EXHIBIT "B"
RAWLE & HENDERSON LLP
By: Gary N. Stcwart
Identification No.: 67353
By: Johnna M. Darby
Identification No.: 94492
25 North Front Street, First Floor
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania \7101
(111)234-7700
THOMAS A. STARR. JR.,
Plainriff.
v.
COMCAR /NDVSTRlf,S, INC..
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRJS,
Dc:fendants.
Attorneys for Defendants.
Comcar Industries, Inc.,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. lUId
Alonzo Harris
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUN1Y
CIVIL ACTION
NO: 05-5516
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PRAECIPE FOR RULE TO FILE COMPLAINT
TO THE PROTHONOTARY
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Please enter a rule upon plaintiff to file ft complaint within tw.enly (20) days of setvice
hereof upon penalty of non pros.
Dated:
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LLP
By:
ary N. Stewart. Esquire
Attomey for Defendants.
Comcar Industries, Inc.,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and
Alonzo HvTis
RULE TO FILE COMPLAINT
AND NOW this 1t...JJ.. day of JUau. .2005, a rule is entered upon plaintiffs to file a
complaint within rwenty (20) days from the dale ohervice hereof.
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CERTIFlCATlON OF SERVlCE
I hereby certify that on loday's date I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing
praecipe for role to file complaint by first-class mail, postage prepaid, upon all attorneys of
record, addressed as follows:
David H. Rosenberg, Esquire
lJOO LingJestwon Road
Harrisburg. PA 17110
N LLP
Datcd://-I5=- 05
00310" 1
EXHIBIT "C"
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
NO. 05.5516
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC..
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants
: 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 tha1 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 OR CANNOT AFfORD ONE, GO TO OR
TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN
GET LEGAL HELP.
CUMBERLAND COUN1Y BAR ASSOCIATION
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, PA 17013
Telephone 717-249-3166 or 800-990-9108
HANDLER, HE:NNING & ROSENBERG, lLP
By
David osenberg. Esq.
1.0. # 569
130 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg. PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
F:\'WP DI....cCon..\JFl\coMplal"t9\mV.\IOIIe wh..n..tarr.wpd
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Plainllff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERlAND COUNTY. PENNSYLVANIA
v.
NO. 05-6516
COM CAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION -LAW
COMPLAINT
AND NOW comes the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. by and through his attorneys.
HANDLER. HENNING & ROSENBERG. LLP, by David H Rosenberg, Esq.. and makes
the within Complaint against the Defendants. Comcarlndustries, Inc.. Willis Shaw Express.
Inc. and Alonzo Harris, and avers as follows:
1. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., is an adult individual currently residing at P.O.
Box 80. Dillsburg, York County. Pennsylvania 17019.
2. Defendant, Alonzo Harris. is an adult individual currently residing at 3719
Highway 261. Colt. Arizona, 72326.
3. Defendant, Willis Shaw Express, Inc., is a corporation currently doing
business at 201 North Elm Street, P.O. Box 188, Elm Springs. Arkansas 72728.
Defendant, Willis Shaw Express. Inc., regularly conducts business within the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
4. Defendant, Comcar Industrles.lnc.. is a corporation currentiydoing business
at 111 Havendale Boulevard, P.O. Box 67, Auburndale, Florida 33823. Defendant.
Comcar Industries, Inc., regularly conducts business within the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania.
5. At all times material hereto, Defendant, Willis Shaw Express, Inc., was a
subsidiary of Defendant, Comear Industries, Inc.
6. At all times material hereto. Defendant. Alonzo Harris, was an agent. servant.
and/or employee of Defendant. WiUis Shaw Express, Inc., and was acting within the scope
of said employment.
7. At all times material hereto, Defendant. Alonzo Harris, was an agent, servant.
and/or employee of Defendant, Comear Industries, Inc., and was acting within the scope
of said employment.
8. At all times material hereto. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., was insured by
Geiea Insurance Company. Said policy included the full tort option pursuant to 75 Pa.
C.S.A, ~ 1705.
9. At all times material hereto. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. was the operator
of a commercial van (hereinafter, "Plaintiffs vehicle").
10. At all times material hereto. Plaintiffs vallicle was owned by his employer,
Point Springs & Driveshafl company.
11. At all times material hereto. Defendant, Alonzo Harris. was the operator of
a 1999 Volvo truck, bearing Idaho registration number AE 4691 (hereinafter. "Defendant's
vehicle").
12. At all times material hereto, Defendant's vehicle was owned by his employer.
Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and/or Comcar Industries, Inc.
2
13. At all times material hereto, there were, the weather condition was rainy and
the road condition was wet.
14. On or about November 6.2003. at about 1:50 p.m. Plaintiff's vehicle was
traveling northbound on Interstate 81 in Southampton Township, Franklin County.
Pennsylvania.
15. On or about November 6. 2003, al about 1:50 p.m.. Defendant. Alonzo
Harris, was traveling southbound on Interstate 81 in Southampton Township, Franklin
County, Pennsylvania.
16. At approximately the same time and place, Defendant's vehicle lost its dual
wheels from the left side rear of the trailer.
17, At approximately the same time and place. the wheels traveled across the
median and violently struck Plaintiff's driver's side door.
18. As a direct and proximate result of Defendant's wheels negligently falling off
of Defendant's truck. Plaintiff's vehicle swung counter clockwise, coming to a final rest in
the median facing south.
19. As a direct and proximate result oftne negligence of the Defendants. Comcar
Industries, Inc., Willis Shaw Express, Inc. and Alonzo Harris, Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.,
sustained extensive injuries as set forth more speCifically below.
COUNT I . NEGLIGENCE
THOMAS A. STARR. JR. Y. ALONZO HARRIS
20. Paragraphs 1-19 are incorporated herein as if set forth at length.
3
21. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and the resultant injuries to
the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr., were caused directly and proximately by the negligence
of Defendant, Alonzo Harris. generally and more specifically as set forth below:
(a) In failing to properly and timely inspect. maintain. and correct the
dangerous condition of Defendant's vehicle;
(b) In failing to properly and timely mend and/or make
repairs/adjustments to said dangerous condition of Defendant's
vehicle;
(c) In allowing its tll.Jck to be operated when it had worn out/burned up
bearings at the hub;
(d) In allowing Defendant's vehicle to be operated when it had worn
out/burned up bearings at the hub;
(e) In permitting Defendant's vehicle to be operated on Interstate 81 when
it was in an unsafe condition and/or in violation of Department of
Transportation regulations, in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. 94107(b}(2);
(f) In failing to properly inspect, maintain and replace the worn
out/burned up bearings at the hub;
(g) In failing to operate Defendant's vehicle at a speed that was safe
for existing conditions. in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. 3 3361;
(h) In failing to have sufficient control of Defendant's vehicle, which would
have allowed the vehicle to be stopped before doing injury to any
person or thing likely to arise under the circumstances;
4
(i) In operating Defendant's vehicle when it was in a such a condition as
it was likely it would cause an accident. in violation of Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations 9 396.7(a);
OJ In failing to concern himself with the inspection and/or maintenance
of Defendant's vehicle. in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations ~ 396.1;
(k) In failing to systematically inspect, repair and maintain, or cause to be
systematically inspected. repaired and maintained, Defendant's
vehicle that was under his control. in violation of Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations ~ 396.3(a)(1);
0) In operating a commercial motor vehicle without satisfying himselflhat
the worn ouVbumed up bearings at the hub were in good working
order. in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 9
392.7;
(m) In failing to have knowledge of and comply with the Federal Molor
Carrier Safety Regulations, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations 9 390.3(e)(2)-(3); and
(n) In otherwise violating the laws, statutes, and regulations of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania regarding the maintenance of
Defendant's trucks.
5
22. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr., sustained serious personal injuries including, but
not limited to. a sprain/strain to his cervical and lumbar spine and mild upper extremity
paresthesis.
23. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has been, and will in the future be. hindered from
performing his daily duties and chores, to his great loss. humiHation and embarrassment.
24. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr., has suffered lost wages and will in the future
continue to suffer a loss of income and/or loss of earning capacity.
25. As a direcl and proximate result at the negligence of Defendant. Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has suffered great physical pain. discomfort and
mental anguish and will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the
future. to his great physical, emotional and financial detriment and loss.
26. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Alonzo
Harris, the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr., has been compened. and will in the future be
compelled. in order 10 effect a cure for the aforementioned injuries. to expend money for
medicine and medical attention to his great detriment and loss.
27. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Alonzo
Hams, the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has suffered a loss of life's pleasures and he will
continue 10 suffer the same in the future. to his great detriment and loss.
28. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr., believes and. therefore, avers that his injuries
are permanent and serious in nature.
6
WHEREFORE. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Slarr. Jr., seeks damages from the Defendant.
Alonzo Harris, in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of Cumberland
County exclusive of interest and costs.
COUNT II - VICARIOUS LIABILITY
THOMAS A. STARR. JR. v. WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS. INC.
29. Paragraphs 1-28 are incorporated herein as if set forth at length.
30. At all times material to this action, Defendant, Alonzo Harris, was an agent,
servant, and/or employee of Defendant, Willis Shaw Express, Inc.
31. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and the resultant injuries to
the Plaintiff. Thomas A. StafT, Jr.. were caused directly and proximately by the negligence
of Defendant. Willis Shaw Express, Inc.. generally and more specifically as sel forth below:
(a) In allowing and/or requiring Defendant, Alonzo Harris. to operate
the aforesaid vehicle on its behalf when it knew or reasonably should
have known that he was an inexperienced, unlicensed, unqualified,
unsafe, unfit, tired and/or careless driver;
(b) In failing 10 establish proper policies, procedures and/or standards to
determine whether its potential or actual agents, servants, workers.
contractors, sub-contractors and/or employees, such as Defendant,
Alonzo Harris. were fit and capable of properly performing the
requirements of their respective employment;
7
(c) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies. procedures and/or
standards with regard to the number of hours worked by its agents.
servants, workers, contractors, sulrcontractors and/or employees such
as Defendant, Alonzo Harris;
(d) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies. procedures andlor
standards with regard to the conditions and circumstances under
which its agents, servants, workers, contractors, sub-contractors
and/or employees, such as Defendant, Alonzo Harrig. were permitted
to drive a vehicle on Defendant's behalf;
(e) In allowing and/or requiring Defendant. Alonzo Harris. to operate
the aforesaid vehicle with a gross vehicle weight in excess of the
prescribed and/or legal limIt;
(f) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies. procedures and/or
standards with regard to the gross vehicle weight of trucks operated
by its agents, servants, workers. contractors. sub-contractors andlor
employees such as Defendant, Alonzo Hams;
(9) In aHowing its truck to be operated when it had worn out/burned up
bearings at the hub;
(h) In permitting its truck to be operated on Interstate 81 when it was
in an unsafe condition and/or in violation of Department of Trans-
portation regulations. in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. ~ 4107(b)(2);
(i) In failing to properly inspect, maintain and repair the worn out/burned
up bearings at the hub;
8
(j) In allowing its vehicle to be operated when it was in a such a condition
as it was likely it would cause an accident. in violation of Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 9 396.7(a);
(k) In failing to concern itself with the inspection and/or maintenance of
its vehicle, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations ~
396.1;
(I) In failing to systematically inspect. repair and maintain. or cause to be
systematically inspected, repaired and maintained, its \/ehidethatwas
under its employee's control, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations ~ 396.3(3)(1); and
(m) In failing to halle knowledge of and comply with the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations ~ 390.3(e)(1).
32. The aforementioned negligent, careless, and/or reckless conduct of
Defendant, Alonzo Harris, occurred while acting in and upon the busine9s of Defendant,
Willis Shaw Express, Inc., and within the course and scope of his employment with said
Defendant.
33. Defendant. Willis Shaw Express, Inc., is vicariously liable tor the extensive
and personal injUries suffered by Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. which include. but are not
limited to. a sprain/strain to his cervical and lumbar spine and mild upper extremity
paresthesis.
9
34. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered great physical pain. discomfort. and mental anguish, and
will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the future, to his great
physical. emotional, and financial detriment and toss.
35. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Plaintiff,
Thomas A. starr, Jr., has suffered lost wages and will in the future continue to suffer a loss
of income and/or loss of earning capacity.
36. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Plaintiff.
Thomas A Starr, Jr., has 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
expend money for the same purposes in the future. to his great detriment and loss.
37. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Plaintiff.
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has been, and probably will in the future be. hindered from attending
to his daily duties, to his great detriment, loss, humiliation. and embarrassment.
38. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Plaintiff.
Thomas A. Starr. Jr., has suffered a loss of life's pleasures. and will continue to endure the
same in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
39. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., believes and. therefore, avers that his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
40. Defendant is vicariously liable for the great physical. emotional. and financial
loss Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered and will continue to endure for an indefinite
period of time in the future.
10
41. Defendant is vicariously liable for Ihe expenses Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr..
has been compelled, in order to effect a cure for the aforesaid injuries, 10 spend for
medicine and/or medical attention, and will be required to expend money for the same
purposes in the future. to his great detriment and loss.
42. Defendant is vicariously liable for the considerable amount of wages Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has losl and the future loss of income and/or loss of earning capacity
that will be sLlstained.
43. Defendant is vicariously liable for hindering Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr.,
from attending to his daily duties. 10 his great detriment, loss, humiliation, and
embarrassment.
44. Defendant is vicariously liable for the great detriment and loss Plaintiff.
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has suffered and will continue to suffer. from losing life's pleasures.
45. Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr, Jr., believes and, therefore, avers that his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. seeks damages from Defendant,
Willis Shaw Express. Inc.. in an amount in eXcess of the compulsory arbitration limits of
Cumberland County exclusive of interest and costs.
COUNT III . VICARIOUS LIABILITY
THOMAS A STARR. JR. If. COMCAR INDUSTRIES. INC.
46. Paragraphs 1-45 are incorporated herein as if set forth at length.
11
47. At all times material to this action. Defendant. Alonzo Harris, was an agent.
servant, and/or employee of Defendant. Gomcar Industries. Inc.
48. The occurrence of the aforementioned collision and the resultant injuries to
the Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. were caused directly and proximately by the negligence
of Defendant, Comcar Industries, Inc.. generally and more specifically as set forth below:
(a) In allowing andlor requiring Defendant. Alonzo Harris, to operate
the aforesaid vehicle on its behalf when it knew or reasonably should
have known that he was an inexperienced, unlicensed, unqualified.
unsafe, unfit. tired and/or careless driver;
(b) In failing to establish proper policies. procedures and/or standards to
determine whether its potential or actual agonts. servants, workers,
contractors, sub-contraclors andlor employees. such as Defendant,
Alonzo Harris, were fit and capable of properly performing the
requirements of their respective employment;
(c) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies, procedures and/or
standards with regard to the number of hours worked by its agents.
servants. workers, contractors, sub-oontraclors and/or employees such
as Defendant, Alonzo Harris;
(d) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies, procedures andlor
standards with regard to the conditions and circumstances under
which its agents. servants. workers. contractors. sub-contractors
12
and/or employees. such as Defendant, Alonzo Harris, were permitted
to drive a vehicle on Defendant's behalf;
(e) In allowing and/or requiring Defendant. Alonzo Harris. to operate
the aforesaid vehicle with a gross vehicle weight in excess of the
prescribed and/or legal limit;
(f) In establishing improper and/or unsafe policies, procedures and/or
standards with regard to the gross vehicle weight of trucKs operated
by its agents. servants. workers. contractors, sub-contractors and/or
employees such as Defendant, Alonzo HarTis;
(g) In allowing its truck to be operated when it had worn out/burned up
bearings at the hub;
(h) In pennitting its truck to be operated on Interstate 81 when it was
in an unsafe condition and/or in violation of Department of Trans-
portation regulations, in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A, ~ 4107(b)(2); and
(i) In failing to properly inspect. maintain and repair the worn ouVbumed
up bearings at the hub;
0) I n allowing its vehicle to be operated when it was in a such a condition
as it was likely it would cause an accident. in violation of Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 9 396.7(a);
(k) In failing 10 concem itself with the inspection and/or maintenance of
its vehicle. in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations !l
396.1;
13
(I) In failing to systematically inspect. repair and maintain, or cause to be
systematically inspected. repaired and maintained, its vehicle that was
under its employee's control. In violation of Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations ~ 396.3(a)(1); and
(m) In failing to have knowledge of and comply with the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Regulations, in violation of Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations ~ 390.3(e)(1).
49. The aforementioned negligent. careless, and/or reckless conduct of
Defendant, Alonzo Harris. occurred while acting in and upon the business of Defendant.
Comcar Industries, Inc., and within the course and scope of his employment with said
Defendant.
50. Defendant, Comcar Industries, Inc.. is vicariously liable for the extensive and
personal injuries suffered by Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. Which include, but are not
limited to, a sprain/strain to his cervical and lumbar spine and mild upper extremity
paresthesis.
51. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Plaintiff.
Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. has suffered great physical pain. discomfort. and mental anguish, and
will continue to endure the same for an indefinite period of time in the future. to his great
physical. emotional. and financial detriment and loss.
52. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Plaintiff,
Thomas A Starr, Jr.. has suffered lost wages and wlll in the future continue to suffer a loss
of income and/or loss of earning capacity.
14
53. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has 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
expend rnoney for the same purposes in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
54. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant, Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr., has been, and probably will in the future be, hindered from attending
to his daily duties, to his great detriment. loss, humiliation, and embarrassment.
55. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Defendant. Plaintiff,
Thomas A Starr, Jr., has suffered a loss of life's pleasures, and will continue to enduee the
same in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
56. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr.. believes and. therefore, avers that his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
57. Defendant is vicariously liable forthe great physical. emotional, and financial
loss Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. has suffered and will continue to endure for an indefinite
period of time in the future.
58. Defendant is vicariously liable forthe expenses Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr. Jr..
has been compelled. io order to effect a cure for the aforesaid injuries. to spend for
medicine andlor medical attention, and will be required to expend money for the same
purposes in the future, to his great detriment and loss.
59. Defendant is vicariously liable for the considerable amount of wages Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr. has lost and the future loss of income and/or loss of earning capacity
that will be sustained.
15
60. Defendant is vicariously liable for hindering Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr..
from attending 10 his daily duties. to his great detriment, loss. humiliation, and
embarrassment
61. Defendant is vicariously liable for the great detriment and loss Plaintiff,
Thomas A. Starr, Jr.. has suffered and will continue to suffer, from losing life's pleasures.
62. Plaintiff, Thomas A. Starr, Jr., believes and, therefore, avers thaf his injuries
are serious and permanent in nature.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff. Thomas A. Starr. Jr., seeks damages from Defendant,
Comcar Industries, Inc., in an amount in excess of the compulsory arbitration limits of
Cumberland County exclusive of interest and costs.
Respectfully submitted,
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
Date: 1.2-JO-07
By;
David Rosenberg, Esquire
Attar ey J.D. # 20569
1396 Linglestoll,'n Road
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
16
~ERI8CA TION
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 thaI
it is based upon infonnation 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 thaI the statements made therein are made subject to the
penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904. relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
7C-9
Thomas A. Starr, Jr.
-----
Date:
I {- :J-0 -()6"'
THOMAS A. STARR, JR.,
Plaintiff
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
; NO. D5-5516
COMCAR INDUSTRIES, INC.,
WILLIS SHAW EXPRESS, INC. and
ALONZO HARRIS,
Defendants
: CIVIL ACTION - LAW
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
On the 20Ih day of December, 2005. I hereby certify that a true and correct copy
of Plaintiffs Complaint was selVed upon the following by depositing in U.S. Mail;
Johnna M. Darby. Esq.
Rawle & Henderson, LLP
25 North Front Street, 1 st Floor
Harrisburg. PA 17101
Respectfully submitted.
1J./~tr'
DATE
HANDLER, HENNING & ROSENBERG, LLP
Davl H senberg. Esquire
I.D. #20 69
1300 nglestown Road
Harrisburg. PA 17110
717-238-2000
Attorney for Plaintiff
--..--....-..-----
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