HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-2312Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Stater, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
BFL, INC.
1883 South State Road 161
Rockport, IN 47635
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE
ESTATE OF KEITH COLE
3500 Wellington Drive
Hurricane, WV 25526
Attorneys for Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
2727 North Loop West :NO, Dl? a 3 /a Iu
P.O. Box 4324
Houston, TX 77210-4324
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE TO DEFEND
To the Defendant:
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 defense 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
(717) 249-3166
AV/SO
USTED HA SIDO DEMANDADO(A EN CORTE. Si usted desea defenderse de ]as
demandas que se presentan mas adelante en las siguientes paginas, debe tomar acci6n dentro
de los pr6ximos veinte (20) dias despues de la notificaci6n de esta Demanda y Aviso radicando
personalmente o por medio de un abogado una comparecencia escrita y radicando en la Corte
por escrito sus defensas de, y objecciones a, las demandas presentadas aqui en contra suya.
Se le advierte de que si usted falla de tomar acci6n como se describe anteriormente, el caso
puede proceder sin usted y un fallo por cualquier suma de dinero reclamada en la demanda o
cualquier otra reclamaci6n o remedio solicitado por el demandante puede ser dictado en contra
suya por la Corte sin mas aviso adicional. Usted puede perder dinero o propiedad u otros
derechos importantes para usted.
USTED DEBE LLEVAR ESTE DOCUMENTO A SU ABOGADO INMEDIATAMENTE. SI
LISTED NO TIENE UN ABOGADO, LLAME O VAYA A LA SIGUIENTE OFICINA. ESTA
OFICINA PUEDE PROVEERLE INFORMACION A CERCA DE COMO CONSEGUIR UN
ABOGADO.
SI LISTED NO PUEDE PAGAR POR LOS SERVICIOS DE UN ABOGADO, ES
POSIBLE QUE ESTA OFICINA LE PUEDA PROVEER INFORMACION SOBRE AGENCIAS
QUE OFREZCAN SERVICIOS LEGALES SIN CARGO O BAJO COSTO A PERSONAS QUE
CUALIFICAN.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 249-3166
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
BFL, INC. : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
1883 South State Road 161 : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Rockport, IN 47635
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE
ESTATE OF KEITH COLE
3500 Wellington Drive CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Hurricane, WV 25526
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
2727 North Loop West :NO. DL - 23 /d,
P.O. Box 4324
Houston, TX 77210-4324
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., by and through its attorneys, Johnson, Duffie,
Stewart & Weidner, P.C., and avers in support of its Complaint as follows:
1. The Plaintiff, BFL, Inc. ('BFL"), is an Indiana corporation with a principal place of
business located at 1883 South State Road 161, Rockport, Indiana,47635.
2. Defendant, Eric Cole, Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole (the "Estate"),
upon information and belief, is an adult individual with a residence located at 3500 Wellington
Drive, Hurricane, West Virginia 25526.
3. On or about April 10, 2006, the Estate of Keith Cole was recorded in the Putnam
County, West Virginia Clerk's Office to Book 22, Page 566; and Eric Cole was named the
Administrator of the Estate.
4. Keith Cole ("Cole") perished as a result of injuries sustained in the accident at
issue in this Complaint.
5. The Defendant, Enterprise Transportation Co. ("Enterprise'), upon information
and belief, is a Texas corporation with a principle place of business located at 2727 North Loop
West, Houston, TX 77210; and operates business within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
and has filed its fictitious name with the Pennsylvania Department of State, Corporations
Bureau, naming Enterprise Products Co. as owner.
6. Cole and Enterprise were engaged in the stream of commerce in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at the time the cause of action arose. Therefore, those
Defendants, engaged in transportation of products across state lines, purposefully availed
themselves of the highways and roadways, and protection and benefits of the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
7. The events which give rise to the allegations complained in this Complaint
occurred on February 10, 2006, in Upper Frankford Township, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania.
8. At all material times, BFL's tractor-trailer was being operated in a lawful manner
and was lawfully proceeding eastbound on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike.
9. At all materials times, Cole was the operator of, and in exclusive possession and
control of, a tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise.
10. At all material times, Cole was operating said tractor-trailer within the course and
scope of his employment with Enterprise or, in the alternative, as a contractor within the course
and scope of a lease agreement with Enterprise, and with direct authority, consent and
permission of Enterprise.
11. At all material times, Cole was operating the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise
on Interstate Route 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in a eastbound direction behind BFL's tractor-
trailer.
12. At all material times, Cole was operating the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise,
in the right-hand travel lane in a eastbound direction on Interstate Route 76/Pennsylvania
Turnpike in a eastbound direction behind BFL's tractor-trailer.
13. Cole operated the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise in a negligent manner, and
caused the tractor-trailer he was operating to impact the rear of the tractor-trailer owned by BFL.
14. As a result of the accident of February 10, 2006, BFL sustained the following
damages:
a. Property damages to its tractor-trailer in the amount of $14,210.50;
b. Loss of use of the tractor trailer resulting in a downtime claim of
$2,178.00; and
c. Expenses in the amounts of $4,381.10 incurred for wrecker and towing
charges and other miscellaneous expenses related to the accident.
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
BFL. Inc. v. Eric Cole, Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole
15. The averments contained in paragraphs 1 through 14 are incorporated herein by
reference.
16. Cole owed a duty to BFL to use due care and caution in the operation and control
of the tractor-trailer driven by Cole.
17. Contrary to the duties owed to BFL, Cole was negligent, careless and reckless in
the operation of the tractor-trailer.
18. The damages set forth herein were caused by, and were the direct and
proximate result of, the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of Cole, including but not
limited to the following particulars:
a. Operating the tractor-trailer at a dangerous and excessive rate of speed
for the conditions;
b. Failing to keep alert and/or awake and maintain a proper and adequate
lookout for other vehicles which were lawfully traveling in an easterly
direction on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in front of him;
C. Failing to maintain his tractor-trailer under proper and adequate control;
d. Causing and/or allowing the tractor-trailer he was operating to impact the
rear of BFL's trailer;
e. Causing, allowing and/or permitted the tractor-trailer he was operating to
strike the rear of BFL's trailer;
f. Failing to bring the tractor-trailer he was operating to a stop prior to
impacting the rear of BFL's trailer;
g. Failing to have the tractor-trailer he was operating equipped with proper
and adequate brakes and/or braking devices and in otherwise failing to
have the tractor-trailer under a safe, proper, adequate and mechanical
condition under the circumstances known to Cole;
h. Failing to perform reasonable inspections of the tractor-trailer he was
operating to ensure that it was equipped with proper and adequate
brakes and/or braking devices and that the tractor-trailer was under a
safe, proper, adequate and mechanical condition under circumstances
known to Cole; and
i. Violating the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, and the traffic
laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania pertaining to the operation of
vehicles, in violation of 75 Pa. C. S. A. §§3361, 3362, 3714 and 3736,
which constitutes negligence as a matter of law.
19. As a direct and proximate result of Cole's negligence, BFL sustained damages
as more fully described herein.
WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., demands judgment against the Defendant, Eric
Cole, Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole, in the amount of $20,769.60 plus interest
thereon from February 10, 2006.
COUNT H - NEGLIGENCE
BFL. Inc. v. Enterprise Transportation Co.
20. The averments contained in paragraphs 1 through 19 of the Plaintiff's Complaint
are incorporated herein by reference.
21. At all material times, Enterprise owned, controlled and operated the tractor-trailer
driven by Cole at the time of the accident on February 10, 2006.
22. Enterprise was negligent in its entrustment of its vehicle to Cole when it knew, or
should have known, that he was not a competent vehicle operator.
23. At all material times, Cole exhibited an appearance or conduct which should
have caused Enterprise, acting by and through its actual or ostensible agents, to perceive that
Cole was not a competent or safe vehicle operator.
24. As a direct and proximate result of Enterprise's negligence, BFL sustained
damages as more fully described herein.
WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., demands judgment against the Defendant,
Enterprise Transportation Co., in the amount of $20,769.60 plus interest thereon from February
10, 2006.
COUNT 111 - VICARIOUS LIABILITY
BFL, Inc, v. Enterprise Transportation Co.
25. The averments contained in paragraphs 1 through 24 of the Plaintiffs Complaint
are incorporated herein by reference.
26. At all times relevant to the subject matter of this Complaint, Enterprise held out
Cole, who was acting within the course and scope of his apparent authority, as its employee,
agent, servant, or, in the alternative, was a contractor under a lease agreement with Enterprise.
27. Pursuant to the Interstate Common Carrier Act and Regulations promulgated by
the Interstate Commerce Commission, Enterprise assumed full responsibility for the conduct of
Cole on February 10, 2006.
28. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Enterprise, BFL sustained
damages as more fully described herein.
WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., demands judgment against the Defendant,
Enterprise Transportation Co., in the amount of $20,769.60 plus interest thereon from February
10, 2006.
JOHN N, D ST ART & WEIDNER
By:
John A. Statler, re
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
Wade D. Manley
Attorney I.D. No. 87244
301 Market Street, P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
173940
APR-25-2006 TUE 06:21 AM BFL Dispatch FAX NO. 2706880216 P. 02
VERIFICATION
I, Micheal Arend, Director of Operations for BFL, Inc., hereby acknowledge that BFL,
Inc. is the Plaintiff in this action and that I am authorized to make this verification on its behalf;
that I have read the foregoing Complaint; and that the facts stated therein are true and correct to
the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18 Pa. C.
S. Section 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
BFL, INC.
By: /
Michael Arend, Director of Operations
DATE:
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Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. 0. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
BFL, INC. : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE
The Complaint in this matter was served by Certified Mail upon Defendant Eric Cole,
Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole and same was received and accepted on May 2,
2006, as reflected on the Return Receipt card, a copy of which is attached hereto.
DATE: S J 8 /OG
JO DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By: L??7- - John A. Stat uire
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
:274863
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing Affidavit of
Service upon all parties or counsel of record by depositing a copy of same in the United States
Mail at Lemoyne, Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid on the 1 day of
, 2006, addressed to the following:
Mr. Eric Cole
Administrator for the Estate
of Keith Cole
3500 Wellington Drive
Hurricane, WV 25526
Enterprise Transportation Co.
2727 North Loop West
P.O. Box 4324
Houston, TX 77210-4324
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
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By:
John A. S -a uire
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
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Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I. D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. 0. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
BFL, INC. : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. :
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE
The Complaint in this matter was served by Certified Mail upon Defendant Enterprise
Transportation Co. and same was received and accepted on May 1, 2006, as reflected on the
Return Receipt card, a copy of which is attached hereto.
DATE: S I e /or,
J DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By:
John A. tie[ Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 3812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
:274861
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
HEREBY CERTIFY that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing Affidavit of
Service upon all parties or counsel of record by depositing a copy of same in the United States
Mail at Lemoyne, Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid on the ? day of
2006, addressed to the following:
Mr. Eric Cole
Administrator for the Estate
of Keith Cole
3500 Wellington Drive
Hurricane, WV 25526
Enterprise Transportation Co.
2727 North Loop West
P.O. Box 4324
Houston, TX 77210-4324
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By:
John A. Statler, e
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 7614540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
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Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
PO Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
BFL, INC.,
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION
CO.,
Defendants
Attorneys for Defendants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE FOR ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please enter the appearance of Delano M. Lantz, Esquire, Curtis N. Stambaugh,
Esquire and McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC as counsel for Defendants, Eric Cole,
Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole, and Enterprise Transportation Company.
McNEES WAY-LACE & NU
By
Delano M. LWtz
I. D. #21401 \(?
Curtis N. Stambaugh
. D. #80565
100 Pine Street, P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 232-8000
Dated: May 10, 2006
Attorneys for Defendants
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document was served by first class mail, postage prepaid upon the following:
John A. Statler, Esquire
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner, P.C.
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Delano M. Lantz
Dated: May 10, 2006
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Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
PO Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166 Attorneys for
(717) 237-5348
BFL, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CIVIL ACTION - LA
CO.,
Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMA DED
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: BFL, INC., Plaintiff and JOHN A. STATLER, ESQUIRE, i s attorney
You are hereby notified to file a written response to the unclosed Answer with
New Matter and Counterclaim within twenty (20) days from se ice hereof or a judgment
may be entered against you.
NU
Delano M. Lan
I. D. #21401
100 Pine Street, P.O. 166
Harrisburg, PA 7108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Attorneys for
Dated: May 30, 2006
Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
PO Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166 Attorneys for
(717) 237-5348
BFL, INC., : IN THE COURT OF
Plaintiff : CUMBERLAND CO
V. : NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CIVIL ACTION -
CO.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL
AND NOW come Defendants, Eric Cole, Administrator
Cole, and Enterprise Transportation Company, by and through
Wallace & Nurick LLC, and answers the Complaint as follows:
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
MON PLEAS
, PENNSYLVANIA
DED
the Estate of Keith
attorneys, McNees
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted in part and denied in part. Enterprise
is a registered trade name owned by EPCO, Inc., a Texas
6. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted
2006 Cole was operating a tractor-trailer unit owned by Entei
goods on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in the Commo
The remaining averments of Paragraph 6 constitute conclusii
answer and are therefore denied.
7. Admitted.
8. Denied. As set forth more fully below, on
tractor-trailer was being operated in an unlawful manner, had
of the eastbound side of Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in attempting to move frc
position into the eastbound travel lane of Interstate 76 in viofa
laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as more fully set
violations of law and the rules of the road were the direct, pro
collision.
9. Admitted.
10. Admitted. Cole was operating the Enterprise
and scope of his employment with Enterprise.
11. Admitted in part and denied in part. Admitted
Cole was operating the tractor-trailer unit owned by Enterprise c
-2-
Company
on February 10,
that was transporting
of Pennsylvania.
of law which require no
i 10, 2006, BFL's
illegally parked off
violated the laws of
the illegally parked
of the motor vehicle
below. Said
cause of the
in the course
at all material times,
Interstate
76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in an eastbound direction. Denied 1
tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise in as eastbound direction b,
The averments of Paragraph 8 are incorporated herein by refE
that Rex Payton and the BFL unit were traveling eastbound in
in front of Keith Cole and the Enterprise unit. Rex Payton, the
trailer suddenly and unexpectedly pulled into the right eastbou
illegally parked position immediately in front of the Enterprise t
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as more fully set forth I
12. Admitted in part and denied in part. The answer
incorporated herein by reference. Admitted that Keith Cole v
the right hand travel lane. When Rex Payton suddenly and t
right eastbound travel lane immediately in front of him, Keith
the left eastbound travel lane in an attempt to avoid the colli:
unit was traveling in the right eastbound travel lane ahead of
13. Denied. As set forth in Paragraphs 8, 11 and 12
set forth below, Cole operated the tractor-trailer owned by Ente
and prudent manner within the right eastbound travel lane of th
until the BFL tractor-trailer suddenly and unexpectedly pulled in
travel lane from an illegally parked position immediately in front
time Cole attempted to avoid a collision by attempting to move
travel lane. Despite Mr. Cole's efforts, the right front portion of
he was operating the
nd BFL's tractor-trailer.
Defendants deny
right hand travel lane
of BFL's tractor-
travel lane from an
in violation of the laws
Paragraph 11 is
traveling eastbound in
pulled into the
partially moved into
Denied that the BFL
Enterprise unit.
and as more fully
in a reasonable
Pennsylvania Turnpike
the right eastbound
Mr. Cole at which
the left eastbound
tractor struck the left
-3-
rear portion of the BFL trailer. The collision was caused by the
Payton, BFL's driver.
14. Denied. After reasonable investigation,
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the
Paragraph 14. The averments are therefore denied and proof
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
15. The averments contained the answers to
incorporated herein by reference.
16. Admitted in part and denied in part. Admitted
persons lawfully using the highways to operate his vehicle in
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The paragraph
of law which requires no answer and is therefore denied.
17. Denied. The answers to Paragraphs 8, 11, 12
negligence of Rex
are without
of the averments of
demanded.
1 through 14 are
Cole owed a duty to all
with the laws
states a conclusion
13 are incorporated
hereby by reference. At all times, Cole operated his vehicle in $ non-negligent, careful
manner in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Plennsvlvania.
18. Denied. The answers to Paragraphs 8, 11, 12 anb 13 are incorporated
herein by reference. Denied that Cole operated the tractor-trail?r owned by Enterprise
in a negligent, careless or reckless manner and, on the contrarf, at all times Cole
operated the tractor-trailer unit in a non-negligent, careful man
the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The
through (i) are denied and, as to said averments, Defendants
in accordance with
in subparagraphs (a)
state as follows:
-4-
a
b.
C.
d
Denied. Denied that Cole operated the tractor-trailer at an
excessive speed for the conditions and, on the contrary, operated
the unit at a reasonable and safe speed for?the conditions;
Denied. Defendant Cole kept alert and awoke and maintained a
proper and adequate lookout for other vehi 'es which were lawfully
traveling in an easterly direction on Intersta a 76/Pennsylvania
Turnpike. Keith Cole took evasive action i an effort to avoid
striking the right rear corner of Plaintiffs un t when Rex Payton
suddenly and without warning entered into he right eastbound lane
immediately in front of Keith Cole after puling out from an illegally
parked position along the right side of the astbound travel lane of
the Turnpike;
Denied. At all times Keith Cole maintained his tractor-trailer unit
under proper and adequate control. He took action to move to the
left lane in order to try to avoid Plaintiffs unit when Rex Payton
suddenly and unexpectedly pulled from be ng the parked position
off the right side of the Turnpike into the ri ht eastbound travel lane
immediately in front of Mr. Cole in violatio of the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania;
Denied. Denied that Cole "caused or allo? ed" his tractor-trailer unit
to impact the rear of BFL's trailer because?of any negligence on his
part. On the contrary, Cole, when co
with the sudden
-5-
emergency created by Rex Payton's sudden and unexpected
e.
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movement into the right eastbound travel I ne from an illegally
parked position, undertook efforts to avoid :triking the right rear
corner of the BFL trailer. Despite his efforto to avoid a collision, the
right front portion of his unit collided with th left rear portion of
BFL's trailer without any negligence on the part of Cole and solely
as a result of the negligence of BFL and it operator;
Denied. The answer to 18(d) is incorporat§d herein by reference;
Denied. The answers to 18(a) through (e) are incorporated herein
by reference;
Denied. The tractor-trailer Cole was operating was equipped with
proper and adequate brakes and braking devices and was
otherwise in a safe, proper and adequate mechanical condition;
Denied. Denied that Cole failed to perform reasonable inspections
of the tractor-trailer he was operating and, Ion the contrary,
reasonable inspections were performed tol check that the vehicle
was equipped with proper and adequate brakes and/or braking
devices and that the tractor-trailer was in 4 safe, proper and
adequate mechanical condition under the
Cole and as in fact existed; and
Denied. Denied that Cole operated the
known to
in violation of
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Or the laws of the
-6-
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and, on
his unit in a safe, proper and prudent
the laws of the Commonwealth of
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
operated his vehicle at a safe speed that %
prudent under the conditions then existing
to bring his vehicle to a stop within the asc
ahead, he operated his unit within the app
operated his vehicle in a careful manner
safety of persons or property, and he was
manner whatsoever.
19. Denied. Denied that Cole was negligent in any
respect to BFL's alleged damages, after reasonable investigal
without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as
averments with regard to such damages. The averments are
proof thereof demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Eric Cole, Administrator for
hereby demands the entry of judgment in favor of the Estate
Inc.
contrary, Cole operate
it in accordance with
inia and applicable
n particular, he
s reasonable and
nd that permitted him
-ed clear distance
phate speed limits, he
i due regard for the
)t negligent in any
nner whatsoever. With
i, Defendants are
the truth of the
:refore denied and
Estate of Keith Cole,
against Plaintiff, BFL,
-7-
COUNT II - NEGLIGENCE
20. The averments set forth in the answers to
are incorporated herein by reference.
21. Admitted.
1 through 19 above
22. Denied. The answers to Paragraphs 8, 11, 12, 14, 14, 16, 17,18 and 19
are incorporated herein by reference. At all material times, C
vehicle operator based on all information available to Enterpi
of the collision on February 10, 2006 and Enterprise was not
entrusting the motor vehicle to Cole.
23. Denied. At all times, Cole exhibited the
consistent with Cole being a competent, safe operator of
24. Denied. Denied that Enterprise was in any way
entrusting the tractor-trailer unit to Cole. Further, as to the
damages, after reasonable investigation Enterprise is without
sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and
therefore denied and proof thereof demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Enterprise Transportation
judgment in its favor and against Plaintiff, BFL, Inc.
was a competent
at and prior to the time
in any manner in
and conduct
tractor-trailer.
with regard to
regarding BFL's
or information
averments are
demands
-8-
COUNT III -VICARIOUS LIABILITY
25. The averments set forth in the answers to Paragraphs 1 through 24 above
are incorporated herein by reference.
26. Admitted that Cole was an employee acting within the course and scope
of his employment at the time of the collision on February 10,
27. Denied. This paragraph states a legal conclusion which requires no
answer.
28. Denied. The averments of Paragraphs 8, 11, 12,+13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19,
22, 23 and 24 are incorporated herein by reference. For the reasons set forth above,
denied that the conduct of Enterprise or its employee, Cole, w4s in any way negligent.
With respect to BFL's alleged damages, after reasonable inve4tigation, Enterprise is
without sufficient knowledge or information to form a belief as tb the truth of the
averments and the averments are therefore denied and proof hereof demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Enterprise Transportation Company, demands
judgment in its favor and against Plaintiff, BFL, Inc.
NEW MATTER
29. The averments set forth in the answers to Paragraphs 1 through 28 above
are incorporated herein by reference.
30. At all times, Keith E. Cole operated the tractor-tr iler unit owned by
Enterprise Transportation Company in accordance with the la s of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania and in a reasonable, prudent manner under tlfe circumstances.
-9-
31. The BFL tractor-trailer unit was operated by Rex
Lane, Owensboro, Kentucky 02303. At all relevant times, he
employee of BFL acting within the course and scope of his
32. Several hours prior to the collision that occurred
approximately 1:25 a.m., Mr. Payton parked his tractor-trailer
the south side of the eastbound travel lanes of the Pen
remained parked for several hours.
33. Mr. Payton was parked in the area in violation of
(1)(x)(a)(2)(vii) and (viii), and (a)(3)(ii).
34. As Cole was approaching the area of the coil
the right eastbound travel lane, Mr. Payton began to pull out
been illegally parked and intended to, at some point, enter the
lane on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
35. As Cole was lawfully approaching the area of
traveling within the right eastbound lane of travel on Interstate
Turnpike, Mr. Payton, in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3334 attet
traffic stream from a parked position when he was unable to n
reasonable safety. Instead, Mr. Payton entered into the right
on the Turnpike immediately in front of Mr. Cole and pulled int
Enterprise vehicle operated by Cole.
36. When confronted with the sudden emergency
Keith Cole attempted to move to the left eastbound lane in
Payton, 6948 Leah
the agent and
and employment.
February 10, 2006 at
a no parking area on
Turnpike where he
Pa. C.S.A. §3353(a)
and lawfully traveling in
the place where he had
eastbound travel
collision and lawfully
to enter into the
such entry with
lane of travel
the path of the
by Rex Payton,
to avoid a collision.
-10-
He succeeded in moving partially into the left eastbound travel
of the negligence of Mr. Payton, he was not able to totally
right front corner of his unit impacted on the left rear corner of
37. The collision was solely the result of the
discussed above and as set forth more fully in the
incorporated herein by reference.
38. Mr. Payton attempted to enter the roadway of
in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3324 which requires that the
enter a roadway from any place other than another roadway
to all vehicles approaching on the roadway to be entered or
39. Mr. Payton violated 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3312 in that
limited access highway from an area other than entrances
by public authority in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3312. Mr
the limited access highway from a pull off area where parking
40. Mr. Payton operated his vehicle in careless
However, because
the collision and the
trailer of the BFL unit.
of Rex Payton as
below, which is
Pennsylvania Turnpike
of a vehicle about to
yield the right-of-way
attempted to enter the
as are established
attempted to enter
prohibited,
for the safety of
persons or property by entering into the right eastbound travel Ilane of the Pennsylvania
Turnpike when such movement could not be made without
other users of the highway, including Keith Cole, in violation
and (b).
41. Mr. Payton was guilty of reckless driving in that
willful and wanton disregard for the safety of persons or
C.S.A.§3735.
ng the safety of
75 Pa. C.S.A. §3714(a)
operated his vehicle in
in violation of 75 Pa.
-11-
42, Mr. Payton negligently failed to realize and failed t keep track of the
location of his vehicle relative to the travel lanes of the Pennsyl ania Turnpike and
allowed his vehicle to enter into the right eastbound travel lane
Keith Cole.
43. Plaintiff is barred from any recovery due to the
Rex Payton, or in the alternative, any recovery must be
comparative negligence law of the Commonwealth of
WHEREFORE, Defendants demand that Plaintiffs
prejudice.
COUNTERCLAIM
44. The averments set forth in Paragraphs 1
incorporated herein by reference.
45. On February 10, 2006, Rex Payton was
the collision at issue in the course and scope of his
and Plaintiff is responsible for the acts and omissions of Rex
the BFL unit.
46. The February 10, 2006 collision was caused by
carelessness and recklessness of BFL, Inc.'s agent or
was at all material times acting within the course and scope
agency for which negligence and carelessness BFL, Inc. is
in front of
of its driver,
pursuant to the
be dismissed with
above are
the BFL unit involved in
or agency with Plaintiff
in the operation of
negligence,
Rex M. Payton, who
his employment and/or
liable.
-12-
47. The negligence, carelessness and recklessness of Rex M. Payton include
but are not limited to the following particulars:
a. Pulling off of Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike and illegally
parking in a no parking zone in violation of 5 Pa. C.S.A.
§3353(a)(1 xx), (a)(2)(vii) and (viii) and (a)( )(ii);
b. Negligently failing to keep track of the posi ion of his tractor-trailer
unit relative to the travel lanes of the
carelessly and negligently operating his
the right eastbound travel lane immedia
who was lawfully traveling in the right
761Pennsylvania Turnpike and so close to
Turnpike and
so that it entered
in front of Keith Cole
lane of Interstate
Cole that he was
unable to avoid a collision in violation of 7 Pa. C.S. §3334(ii);
C. Entering onto the roadway from a parked osition when he was
unable to do so without creating an imme late hazard for on-
coming vehicles lawfully traveling in the r
of the Pennsylvania Turnpike in violation
d. Failing to yield the right of way to all vehic
roadway, including the Enterprise unit, as
enter the roadway from his parked
C.S.A.§3324;
e. Operating his vehicle in carelessness d
eastbound travel lane
75 Pa. C.S. §3334;
approaching on the
Ir. Payton was about to
in violation of 75 Pa.
for the safety of
persons or property resulting in the death lof Keith Cole and severe
-13-
damage to Enterprise's property in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A.
§3714(a) and (b).
48. The negligence of BFL's employee and agent, Re; Payton, as set forth
above caused the collision that occurred when Mr. Cole, despito his efforts, could not
avoid a collision and the right front portion of his tractor struck the left rear corner of the
BFL trailer.
49. As a result of the collision, Mr. Cole died from severe burn injuries.
50. As a result of the collision, the Enterprise tractor Onit caught fire and was
totally destroyed. The destroyed tractor was a 2004 international with VIN
3HSCNAPR14N022828, License Plate No. P496616, registered in the State of Illinois.
The fair market value of the tractor was $75,588.76.
51. The Enterprise tractor was pulling a 1984 Heil tanker, VIN
1 HLF1 D7B2E9E39019. As a result of the collision, the tanker Suffered substantial
damage requiring repairs before being placed back into servic4. The repairs have not
yet been completed but the estimated cost of the repairs is at (oast $12,349.
52. As a result of the collision, Enterprise lost the us+ of the tractor until a
suitable replacement unit could be purchased. Further, Enterprise lost the use of the
Heil tanker until the repairs could be completed. The amounts of these damages are
being calculated and claim is made for such loss of use.
53. In addition, Enterprise incurred other incidental costs including storage,
towing charges and debris removal. These damages are beinb calculated and claim is
made for such costs.
-14-
54. Enterprise's total property damages as a result of
$87,937.76, plus damages for loss of use and other incidental
calculated.
WHEREFORE, Enterprise Transportation Company
favor and against Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., in an amount in excess of
compulsory arbitration, together with delay damages and costs
I. D. #21401
Curtis N. Stam
I.D. #80565
100 Pine Stree
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA
(717) 237-5341
Attorneys for
Dated: May 30, 2006
collision are
that are being
judgment in its
limits requiring
suit.
17108-1166
-15-
VERIFICATION
Subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. §4904, relating
unsworn falsification to
authorities, I hereby certify that I am the Director of Safety of enterprise Transportation
Company and am authorized to verify the foregoing Answer a
behalf. I further certify that I have read the foregoing Answer
that the facts set forth therein are true and correct to the best
information and belief.
Counterclaim on its
Counterclaim and
my knowledge,
Dated: May JW , 2006
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true
foregoing document was served by first class mail, postage
John A. Statler, Esquire
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart &
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA/(7p43-0109
Delano M.
correct copy of the
upon the following:
P.C.
Dated: May 30, 2006
C, m T
r.? ;ice
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Dw?
Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
PO Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Attorneys for Defendants
BFL, INC.,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CIVIL ACTION - LAW
CO.,
Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
STIPULATION
The parties, pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1033, hereby stipulate and agree as follows:
1. The Defendant identified as Enterprise Transportation Company in the
Complaint and in the Answer, New Matter and Counterclaim shall be hereafter
identified as "EPCO, Inc." and Enterprise Transportation Company shall be referred to
as a division of EPCO, Inc.
2. The claims asserted in the Complaint against Enterprise Transportation
Company shall be deemed to have been asserted against EPCO, Inc.
3. The Counterclaim asserted by Enterprise Transportation Company
against BFL, Inc. shall be deemed to have been asserted by EPCO, Inc. against BFL.
4. The caption shall be amended to read as follows: BFL, Inc. v. Eric Cole,
Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole and EPCO, Inc., Defendants.
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART &
W IDNER, P.C.
By
John A.
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
(717) 761-0109
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
By
Delano M. Lam
I. D. No. 21401
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Attorneys for Plaintiff
Dated: June 15, 2006
Attorneys for Defendants
-2-
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing document
upon all parties or counsel of record by depositing a copy of same in the United States Mail at
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid on the 2. ?day of J LW 2
2006, addressed to the following:
Delano M. Lantz Esquire
Curtis N. Stambaugh, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By:
John A. a Esquire
Attorney I.D. o. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
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cy:
Delano M. Lantz
I . D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I. D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
PO Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Attorneys for Defendants
BFL, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC., CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
V. :
REX M. PAYTON,
Additional :
Defendant
COMPLAINT OF EPCO, INC.
AGAINST ADDITIONAL DEFENDANT REX M. PAYTON
AND NOW comes Defendant, EPCO, Inc., by and through its attorneys, McNees
Wallace & Nurick LLC, and sets forth the following Complaint against Additional
Defendant Rex M. Payton pursuant to Pa.R.Civ.P. 2252.
1. On April 25, 2006, Plaintiff BFL, Inc. ("BFL") commenced this action to
recover for alleged property damage arising out of a February 10, 2006 motor vehicle
collision that occurred on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania. A true and correct copy of the Complaint is attached hereto as Exhibit
"A."
2. On May 31, 2006, Defendants Eric Cole, Administrator for the Estate of
Keith Cole, and EPCO, Inc. ("EPCO") filed an Answer with New Matter and a
Counterclaim by EPCO. A true and correct copy of the Answer with New Matter and
Counterclaim is attached hereto as Exhibit "B."
3. EPCO incorporates herein by reference the Answer with New Matter and
Counterclaim.
4. As set forth in the Answer, Enterprise Transportation Company is a
registered trade name owned by EPCO, Inc., a Texas corporation. Enterprise
Transportation is a division of EPCO, Inc. The company is hereinafter referred to as
"EPCO."
5. Additional Defendant Rex M. Payton ("Mr. Payton") is an adult individual
residing at 6948 Leah Lane, Owensboro, Kentucky, 42303.
6. At all times relevant hereto, Mr. Payton was an agent and employee of
BFL acting within the scope and course of his agency and employment.
7. Mr. Payton was driving a tractor-trailer unit in the scope of his employment
with BFL when he was involved in the collision that is the subject of this lawsuit.
-2-
8. Several hours prior to the collision that occurred on February 10, 2006 at
approximately 1:25 a.m., Mr. Payton parked his tractor-trailer in a no parking area on
the south side of the eastbound travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike where he
remained parked for several hours.
9. Mr. Payton was parked in this no-parking area in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A.
§§ 3353(a)(1)(x)(a)(2)(vii) and (viii), and (a)(3)(ii).
10. Keith Cole was operating a tractor-trailer in the scope of his employment
with EPCO while traveling on the Pennsylvania Turnpike in an eastbound direction at
approximately 1:25 a.m.
11. As Keith Cole was approaching the area of the collision, he was traveling
in the right eastbound travel lane.
12. As Keith Cole was approaching the area of the collision and lawfully
traveling in the right eastbound travel lane, Mr. Payton suddenly and unexpectedly
pulled into the right eastbound travel lane from an illegally parked position immediately
in front of Cole and pulled into the path of the EPCO vehicle operated by Cole.
13. When confronted with the sudden emergency created by Mr. Payton,
Keith Cole attempted to move to the left eastbound lane in order to avoid a collision.
14. Keith Cole succeeded in moving partially into the left eastbound travel
lane, but was not able to avoid totally the collision with Mr. Payton.
15. The right front comer of Cole's tractor impacted on the left rear corner of
the trailer of the BFL unit driven by Mr. Payton.
-3-
16. As a result of the collision, the EPCO tractor unit caught fire and was
totally destroyed. The destroyed tractor was a 2004 International with VIN
3HSCNAPR14N022828, License Plate No. P496616, registered in the State of Illinois.
17. The EPCO tractor was pulling a 1984 Heil tanker, VIN
1 HLF1 D7B2E9E39019. As a result of the collision, the tanker suffered substantial
damage requiring repairs before being placed back into service.
18. As a result of the collision, EPCO lost the use of the tractor until a suitable
replacement unit could be purchased.
19. As a result of the collision, EPCO lost the use of the Heil tanker until the
repairs could be completed.
20. In addition, EPCO incurred other incidental costs including storage, towing
charges and debris removal.
21. As a result of the collision, Keith Cole died from severe burn injuries.
22. Mr. Payton violated 75 Pa. C.S.A. § 3334 when he entered into the traffic
stream from a parked position when he was unable to make such entry with reasonable
safety.
23. As Mr. Payton attempted to enter the roadway of the Pennsylvania
Turnpike, he violated 75 Pa. C.S.A. § 3324, which requires that the driver of a vehicle
about to enter a roadway from any place other than another roadway shall yield the
right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the roadway to be entered or crossed.
-4-
24. Mr. Payton violated 75 Pa. C.S.A. § 3312 in that he attempted to enter the
limited access highway from an area other than entrances and exists as are established
by public authority.
25. Mr. Payton operated his vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of
persons or property by entering into the right eastbound travel lane of the Pennsylvania
Turnpike when such movement could not be made without jeopardizing the safety of
other users of the highway, including Keith Cole, in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. § 3714(a)
and (b).
26. Mr. Payton is guilty of reckless driving in that he operated his vehicle in
willful and wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property in violation of 75 Pa.
C.S.A. § 3735.
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
EPCO, Inc. v. Rex M. Pavton
27. EPCO incorporates herein by reference Paragraphs 1 through 26.
28. At all times relevant hereto, Keith Cole operated the tractor-trailer unit
owned by EPCO in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
and in a reasonable, prudent manner under the circumstances.
29. The February 10, 2006 collision was caused by the negligence,
carelessness and recklessness of Mr. Payton.
30. The negligence, carelessness and recklessness of Mr. Payton include, but
are not limited to, the following particulars:
-5-
a. Pulling off of Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike and illegally
parking in a no parking zone in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A.
§ 3353(a)(1)(x), (a)(2)(vii) and (viii) and (a)(2)(ii);
b. Negligently failing to keep track of the position of his tractor-trailer
unit relative to the travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and
carelessly and negligently operating his vehicle so that it entered
the right eastbound travel lane immediately in front of Cole who
was lawfully traveling in the right eastbound lane of Interstate
76/Pennsylvania Turnpike and so close to Cole that he was unable
to avoid a collision in violation of 75 Pa. C.S. § 3334(ii);
C. Entering onto the roadway from a parked position when he was
unable to do so without creating an immediate hazard for oncoming
vehicles lawfully traveling in the right eastbound travel lane of the
Pennsylvania Turnpike in violation of 75 Pa. C.S. § 3334;
d. Failing to yield the right of way to all vehicles approaching on the
roadway, including the EPCO unit, as Mr. Payton was about to
enter the roadway from his parked position in violation of 75 Pa.
C.S.A. § 3324;
e. Operating his vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of persons
or property resulting in the death of Keith Cole and severe damage
to EPCO 's property in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. § 3714(a) and (b).
-6-
31. The negligence of Mr. Payton, as set forth above, was the direct and
proximate cause of the collision that occurred when Cole, despite his efforts, could not
avoid a collision and the right front portion of his tractor struck the left rear corner of the
BFL trailer.
32. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Mr. Payton, Keith
Cole died from severe burn injuries.
33. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Mr. Payton, the
EPCO tractor unit caught fire and was totally destroyed. The fair market value of the
tractor was $75,588.76.
34. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Mr. Payton, the Heil
tanker suffered substantial damage requiring repairs before being placed back into
service. The repairs have not yet been completed but the estimated cost of the repairs
is at least $12,349.
35. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Mr. Payton, EPCO
lost the use of the tractor until a suitable replacement unit could be purchased. Further,
EPCO lost the use of the Heil tanker until the repairs could be completed. The amounts
of these damages are being calculated and claim is made for such loss of use.
36. As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Mr. Payton, EPCO
incurred other incidental costs including storage, towing charges and debris removal.
These damages are being calculated and claim is made for such costs.
-7-
37. EPCO 's total property damages as a direct and proximate result of the
negligence of Mr. Payton are $87,937.76, plus damages for loss of use and other
incidental damages that are being calculated.
WHEREFORE, EPCO, Inc., demands judgment in its favor and against
Additional Defendant Rex M. Payton, jointly and severally with BFL, Inc., in an amount
in excess of the limits requiring compulsory arbitration, together with delay damages
and costs of suit.
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
By V11 LI ? "
Del no M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
Kimberly A. Selemba
I.D. No. 93535
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 232-8000
Attorneys for Defendants
Dated: June 26, 2006
-8-
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
BFL, INC.
1883 South State Road 161
Rockport, IN 47635
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE
ESTATE OF KEITH COLE
3500 Wellington Drive
Hurricane, WV 25526
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
2727 North Loop West
P.O. Box 4324
Houston, TX 77210-4324
Defendants
To the Defendant:
Attorneys for Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO.?(?-a3?a ?lv?[
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
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NOT/CE TO DEFEND
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 defense 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
(717) 249-3166
EXHIBIT "A"
AV/SO
LISTED 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 pr6ximos 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.
LISTED DEBE LLEVAR ESTE DOCUMENTO A SU ABOGADO INMEDIATAMENTE. SI
LISTED NO TIENE UN ABOGADO, LLAME O VAYA A LA SIGUIENTE OFICINA. ESTA
OFICINA PUEDE PROVEERLE INFORMACION A CERCA DE COMO CONSEGUIR UN
ABOGADO.
SI LISTED NO PUEDE PAGAR POR LOS SERVICIOS DE UN ABOGADO, ES
POSIBLE QUE ESTA OFICINA LE PUEDA PROVEER INFORMACION SOBRE AGENCIAS
QUE OFREZCAN SERVICIOS LEGALES SIN CARGO O BAJO COSTO A PERSONAS QUE
CUALIFICAN.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 249-3166
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
BFL, INC. : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
1883 South State Road 161 : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Rockport, IN 47635
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE
ESTATE OF KEITH COLE
3500 Wellington Drive : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Hurricane, WV 25526
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
2727 North Loop West : NO.
P.O. Box 4324
Houston, TX 77210-4324
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., by and through its attorneys, Johnson, Duffie,
Stewart & Weidner, P.C., and avers in support of its Complaint as follows:
1. The Plaintiff, BFL, Inc. ("BFL"), is an Indiana corporation with a principal place of
business located at 1883 South State Road 161, Rockport, Indiana,47635.
2. Defendant, Eric Cole, Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole (the "Estate"),
upon information and belief, is an adult individual with a residence located at 3500 Wellington
Drive, Hurricane, West Virginia 25526.
3. On or about April 10, 2006, the Estate of Keith Cole was recorded in the Putnam
County, West Virginia Clerk's Office to Book 22, Page 566; and Eric Cole was named the
Administrator of the Estate.
4. Keith Cole ("Cole") perished as a result of injuries sustained in the accident at
issue in this Complaint.
5. The Defendant, Enterprise Transportation Co. ("Enterprise"), upon information
and belief, is a Texas corporation with a principle place of business located at 2727 North Loop
West, Houston, TX 77210; and operates business within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
and has filed its fictitious name with the Pennsylvania Department of State, Corporations
Bureau, naming Enterprise Products Co. as owner.
6. Cole and Enterprise were engaged in the stream of commerce in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at the time the cause of action arose. Therefore, those
Defendants, engaged in transportation of products across state lines, purposefully availed
themselves of the highways and roadways, and protection and benefits of the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
7. The events which give rise to the allegations complained in this Complaint
occurred on February 10, 2006, in Upper Frankford Township, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania.
8. At all material times, BFL's tractor-trailer was being operated in a lawful manner
and was lawfully proceeding eastbound on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike.
9. At all materials times, Cole was the operator of, and in exclusive possession and
control of, a tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise.
10. At all material times, Cole was operating said tractor-trailer within the course and
scope of his employment with Enterprise or, in the alternative, as a contractor within the course
and scope of a lease agreement with Enterprise, and with direct authority, consent and
permission of Enterprise.
11. At all material times, Cole was operating the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise
on Interstate Route 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in a eastbound direction behind BFL's tractor-
trailer.
12. At all material times, Cole was operating the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise,
in the right-hand travel lane in a eastbound direction on Interstate Route 76/Pennsylvania
Turnpike in a eastbound direction behind BFL's tractor-trailer.
13. Cole operated the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise in a negligent manner, and
caused the tractor-trailer he was operating to impact the rear of the tractor-trailer owned by BFL.
14. As a result of the accident of February 10, 2006, BFL sustained the following
damages:
a. Property damages to its tractor-trailer in the amount of $14,210.50;
b. Loss of use of the tractor trailer resulting in a downtime claim of
$2,178.00; and
c. Expenses in the amounts of $4,381.10 incurred for wrecker and towing
charges and other miscellaneous expenses related to the accident.
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
BFL Inc. v. Eric Cole Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole
15. The averments contained in paragraphs 1 through 14 are incorporated herein by
reference.
16. Cole owed a duty to BFL to use due care and caution in the operation and control
of the tractor-trailer driven by Cole.
17. Contrary to the duties owed to BFL, Cole was negligent, careless and reckless in
the operation of the tractor-trailer.
18. The damages set forth herein were caused by, and were the direct and
proximate result of, the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of Cole, including but not
limited to the following particulars:
a. Operating the tractor-trailer at a dangerous and excessive rate of speed
for the conditions;
b. Failing to keep alert and/or awake and maintain a proper and adequate
lookout for other vehicles which were lawfully traveling in an easterly
direction on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in front of him;
C. Failing to maintain his tractor-trailer under proper and adequate control;
d. Causing and/or allowing the tractor-trailer he was operating to impact the
rear of BFL's trailer;
e. Causing, allowing and/or permitted the tractor-trailer he was operating to
strike the rear of BFL's trailer;
f. Failing to bring the tractor-trailer he was operating to a stop prior to
impacting the rear of BFL's trailer;
g. Failing to have the tractor-trailer he was operating equipped with proper
and adequate brakes and/or braking devices and in otherwise failing to
have the tractor-trailer under a safe, proper, adequate and mechanical
condition under the circumstances known to Cole;
h. Failing to perform reasonable inspections of the tractor-trailer he was
operating to ensure that it was equipped with proper and adequate
brakes and/or braking devices and that the tractor-trailer was under a
safe, proper, adequate and mechanical condition under circumstances
known to Cole; and
i. Violating the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, and the traffic
laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania pertaining to the operation of
vehicles, in violation of 75 Pa. C. S. A. §§3361, 3362, 3714 and 3736,
which constitutes negligence as a matter of law.
19. As a direct and proximate result of Cole's negligence, BFL sustained damages
as more fully described herein.
WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., demands judgment against the Defendant, Eric
Cole, Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole, in the amount of $20,769.60 plus interest
thereon from February 10, 2006.
COUNT H - NEGLIGENCE
BFL. Inc. v. Enterprise Transportation Co
20. The averments contained in paragraphs 1 through 19 of the Plaintiffs Complaint
are incorporated herein by reference.
21. At all material times, Enterprise owned, controlled and operated the tractor-trailer
driven by Cole at the time of the accident on February 10, 2006.
22. Enterprise was negligent in its entrustment of its vehicle to Cole when it knew, or
should have known, that he was not a competent vehicle operator.
23. At all material times, Cole exhibited an appearance or conduct which should
have caused Enterprise, acting by and through its actual or ostensible agents, to perceive that
Cole was not a competent or safe vehicle operator.
24. As a direct and proximate result of Enterprise's negligence, BFL sustained
damages as more fully described herein.
WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., demands judgment against the Defendant,
Enterprise Transportation Co., in the amount of $20,769.60 plus interest thereon from February
10, 2006.
COUNT/// - VICARIOUS LIABILITY
BFL. Inc. v. Enterprise Transportation Co
25. The averments contained in paragraphs 1 through 24 of the Plaintiffs Complaint
are incorporated herein by reference.
26. At all times relevant to the subject matter of this Complaint, Enterprise held out
Cole, who was acting within the course and scope of his apparent authority, as its employee,
agent, servant, or, in the alternative, was a contractor under a lease agreement with Enterprise.
27. Pursuant to the Interstate Common Carrier Act and Regulations promulgated by
the Interstate Commerce Commission, Enterprise assumed full responsibility for the conduct of
Cole on February 10, 2006.
28. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Enterprise, BFL sustained
damages as more fully described herein.
WHEREFORE, the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., demands judgment against the Defendant,
Enterprise Transportation Co., in the amount of $20,769.60 plus interest thereon from February
10, 2006.
JOHN N, D ST ART & WEIDNER
By:
John A. Statler, re
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
Wade D. Manley
Attorney I.D. No. 87244
301 Market Street, P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
:273940
- - E 06;
L Dispatch
VERIFICATION
FAX NO. 2708880216
1, Micheal Arend, Director of Operations for BFL, Inc., hereby acknowledge that BFL,
Inc. is the Plaintiff in this action and that I am authorized to make this verification on Its behalf;
P. 02
that I have read the foregoing Complaint; and that the facts stated therein are true and correct to
the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18 Pa. C.
S. Section 4904, relating to unswom falsification to authorities.
BFI., INC.
By:
Michael Arend, Director of Operations
DATE:
Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
PO Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
?i
Attorneys for Defendants
BFL, INC.,
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CIVIL ACTION - LAW
CO.,
Defendants JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: BFL, INC., Plaintiff and JOHN A. STATLER, ESQUIRE, its attorney
You are hereby notified to file a written response to the enclosed Answer with
New Matter and Counterclaim within twenty (20) days from service hereof or a judgment
may be entered against you.
Dated: May 30, 2006
McNE?S WAVLACE & NURICK L
BYE L-16,14-IX
Delano M. Lang
I.D. #21401
100 Pine Street, P.O. 166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Attorneys for Defendants
EXHIBIT "B"
Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street
PO Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166 Attorneys for Defendants
(717) 237-5348
BFL, INC., : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CIVIL ACTION - LAW
CO.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER TO COMPLAINT WITH NEW MATTER
AND NOW come Defendants, Eric Cole, Administrator of the Estate of Keith
Cole, and Enterprise Transportation Company, by and through their attorneys, McNees
Wallace & Nurick LLC, and answers the Complaint as follows:
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted in part and denied in part. Enterprise Transportation Company
is a registered trade name owned by EPCO, Inc., a Texas Corporation.
6. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that on February 10,
2006 Cole was operating a tractor-trailer unit owned by Enterprise that was transporting
goods on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
The remaining averments of Paragraph 6 constitute conclusions of law which require no
answer and are therefore denied.
7. Admitted.
8. Denied. As set forth more fully below, on February 10, 2006, BFL's
tractor-trailer was being operated in an unlawful manner, had been illegally parked off
of the eastbound side of Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike and violated the laws of
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in attempting to move from the illegally parked
position into the eastbound travel lane of Interstate 76 in violation of the motor vehicle
laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as more fully set forth below. Said
violations of law and the rules of the road were the direct, proximate cause of the
collision.
9. Admitted.
10. Admitted. Cole was operating the Enterprise tractor-trailer in the course
and scope of his employment with Enterprise.
11. Admitted in part and denied in part. Admitted that, at all material times,
Cole was operating the tractor-trailer unit owned by Enterprise on Interstate
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76/Pennsylvania Turnpike in an eastbound direction. Denied that he was operating the
tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise in as eastbound direction behind BFL's tractor-trailer.
The averments of Paragraph 8 are incorporated herein by reference. Defendants deny
that Rex Payton and the BFL unit were traveling eastbound in the right hand travel lane
in front of Keith Cole and the Enterprise unit. Rex Payton, the operator of BFL's tractor-
trailer suddenly and unexpectedly pulled into the right eastbound travel lane from an
illegally parked position immediately in front of the Enterprise unit in violation of the laws
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as more fully set forth below.
12. Admitted in part and denied in part. The answer to Paragraph 11 is
incorporated herein by reference. Admitted that Keith Cole was traveling eastbound in
the right hand travel lane. When Rex Payton suddenly and unexpectedly pulled into the
right eastbound travel lane immediately in front of him, Keith Cole partially moved into
the left eastbound travel lane in an attempt to avoid the collision. Denied that the BFL
unit was traveling in the right eastbound travel lane ahead of the Enterprise unit.
13. Denied. As set forth in Paragraphs 8, 11 and 12 above and as more fully
set forth below, Cole operated the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise in a reasonable
and prudent manner within the right eastbound travel lane of the Pennsylvania Turnpike
until the BFL tractor-trailer suddenly and unexpectedly pulled into the right eastbound
travel lane from an illegally parked position immediately in front of Mr. Cole at which
time Cole attempted to avoid a collision by attempting to move into the left eastbound
travel lane. Despite Mr. Cole's efforts, the right front portion of his tractor struck the left
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rear portion of the BFL trailer. The collision was caused by the negligence of Rex
Payton, BFL's driver.
14. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments of
Paragraph 14. The averments are therefore denied and proof thereof demanded.
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
BFL Inc. v. Eric Cole Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole
15. The averments contained the answers to Paragraphs 1 through 14 are
incorporated herein by reference.
16. Admitted in part and denied in part. Admitted that Cole owed a duty to all
persons lawfully using the highways to operate his vehicle in accordance with the laws
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The paragraph otherwise states a conclusion
of law which requires no answer and is therefore denied.
17. Denied. The answers to Paragraphs 8, 11, 12 and 13 are incorporated
hereby by reference. At all times, Cole operated his vehicle in a non-negligent, careful
manner in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
18. Denied. The answers to Paragraphs 8, 11, 12 and 13 are incorporated
herein by reference. Denied that Cole operated the tractor-trailer owned by Enterprise
in a negligent, careless or reckless manner and, on the contrary, at all times Cole
operated the tractor-trailer unit in a non-negligent, careful manner in accordance with
the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The averments in subparagraphs (a)
through (i) are denied and, as to said averments, Defendants further state as follows:
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0
a. Denied. Denied that Cole operated the tractor-trailer at an
excessive speed for the conditions and, on the contrary, operated
the unit at a reasonable and safe speed for the conditions;
b. Denied. Defendant Cole kept alert and awake and maintained a
proper and adequate lookout for other vehicles which were lawfully
traveling in an easterly direction on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania
Turnpike. Keith Cole took evasive action in an effort to avoid
striking the right rear corner of Plaintiffs unit when Rex Payton
suddenly and without warning entered into the right eastbound lane
immediately in front of Keith Cole after pulling out from an illegally
parked position along the right side of the eastbound travel lane of
the Turnpike;
C. Denied. At all times Keith Cole maintained his tractor-trailer unit
under proper and adequate control. He took action to move to the
left lane in order to try to avoid Plaintiffs unit when Rex Payton
suddenly and unexpectedly pulled from being the parked position
off the right side of the Turnpike into the right eastbound travel lane
immediately in front of Mr. Cole in violation of the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania;
d. Denied. Denied that Cole "caused or allowed" his tractor-trailer unit
to impact the rear of BFL's trailer because of any negligence on his
part. On the contrary, Cole, when confronted with the sudden
-5-
emergency created by Rex Payton's sudden and unexpected
movement into the right eastbound travel lane from an illegally
parked position, undertook efforts to avoid striking the right rear
corner of the BFL trailer. Despite his efforts to avoid a collision, the
right front portion of his unit collided with the left rear portion of
BFL's trailer without any negligence on the part of Cole and solely
as a result of the negligence of BFL and its operator;
e. Denied. The answer to 18(d) is incorporated herein by reference;
f. Denied. The answers to 18(a) through (e) are incorporated herein
by reference;
g. Denied. The tractor-trailer Cole was operating was equipped with
proper and adequate brakes and braking devices and was
otherwise in a safe, proper and adequate mechanical condition;
h. Denied. Denied that Cole failed to perform reasonable inspections
of the tractor-trailer he was operating and, on the contrary,
reasonable inspections were performed to check that the vehicle
was equipped with proper and adequate brakes and/or braking
devices and that the tractor-trailer was in a safe, proper and
adequate mechanical condition under the circumstances known to
Cole and as in fact existed; and
i. Denied. Denied that Cole operated the vehicle in violation of
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations or the laws of the
-6-
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and, on the contrary, Cole operate
his unit in a safe, proper and prudent manner in accordance with
the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and applicable
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. In particular, he
operated his vehicle at a safe speed that was reasonable and
prudent under the conditions then existing and that permitted him
to bring his vehicle to a stop within the assured clear distance
ahead, he operated his unit within the appropriate speed limits, he
operated his vehicle in a careful manner with due regard for the
safety of persons or property, and he was not negligent in any
manner whatsoever.
19. Denied. Denied that Cole was negligent in any manner whatsoever. With
respect to BFL's alleged damages, after reasonable investigation, Defendants are
without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the
averments with regard to such damages. The averments are therefore denied and
proof thereof demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Eric Cole, Administrator for the Estate of Keith Cole,
hereby demands the entry of judgment in favor of the Estate and against Plaintiff, BFL,
Inc.
-7-
COUNT II - NEGLIGENCE
BFL, Inc. v. Enterprise Transportation Co
20. The averments set forth in the answers to Paragraphs 1 through 19 above
are incorporated herein by reference.
21. Admitted.
22. Denied. The answers to Paragraphs 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18 and 19
are incorporated herein by reference. At all material times, Cole was a competent
vehicle operator based on all information available to Enterprise at and prior to the time
of the collision on February 10, 2006 and Enterprise was not negligent in any manner in
entrusting the motor vehicle to Cole.
23. Denied. At all times, Cole exhibited the appearance and conduct
consistent with Cole being a competent, safe operator of Enterprise's tractor-trailer.
24. Denied. Denied that Enterprise was in any way negligent with regard to
entrusting the tractor-trailer unit to Cole. Further, as to the averments regarding BFL's
damages, after reasonable investigation Enterprise is without knowledge or information
sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and the averments are
therefore denied and proof thereof demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Enterprise Transportation Company, demands
judgment in its favor and against Plaintiff, BFL, Inc.
-8-
COUNT III - VICARIOUS LIABILITY
BFL, Inc. v. Enterprise Transportation Co
25. The averments set forth in the answers to Paragraphs 1 through 24 above
are incorporated herein by reference.
26. Admitted that Cole was an employee acting within the course and scope
of his employment at the time of the collision on February 10, 2006.
27. Denied. This paragraph states a legal conclusion which requires no
answer.
28. Denied. The averments of Paragraphs 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19,
22, 23 and 24 are incorporated herein by reference. For the reasons set forth above,
denied that the conduct of Enterprise or its employee, Cole, was in any way negligent.
With respect to BFL's alleged damages, after reasonable investigation, Enterprise is
without sufficient knowledge or information to form a belief as to the truth of the
averments and the averments are therefore denied and proof thereof demanded.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Enterprise Transportation Company, demands
judgment in its favor and against Plaintiff, BFL, Inc.
NEW MATTER
29. The averments set forth in the answers to Paragraphs 1 through 28 above
are incorporated herein by reference.
30. At all times, Keith E. Cole operated the tractor-trailer unit owned by
Enterprise Transportation Company in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania and in a reasonable, prudent manner under the circumstances.
-9-
31. The BFL tractor-trailer unit was operated by Rex M. Payton, 6948 Leah
Lane, Owensboro, Kentucky 02303. At all relevant times, he was the agent and
employee of BFL acting within the course and scope of his agency and employment.
32. Several hours prior to the collision that occurred on February 10, 2006 at
approximately 1:25 a.m., Mr. Payton parked his tractor-trailer in a no parking area on
the south side of the eastbound travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike where he
remained parked for several hours.
33. Mr. Payton was parked in the area in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3353(a)
(1)(x)(a)(2)(vii) and (viii), and (a)(3)(ii).
34. As Cole was approaching the area of the collision and lawfully traveling in
the right eastbound travel lane, Mr. Payton began to pull out of the place where he had
been illegally parked and intended to, at some point, enter the right eastbound travel
lane on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
35. As Cole was lawfully approaching the area of the collision and lawfully
traveling within the right eastbound lane of travel on Interstate 76/Pennsylvania
Turnpike, Mr. Payton, in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3334 attempted to enter into the
traffic stream from a parked position when he was unable to make such entry with
reasonable safety. Instead, Mr. Payton entered into the right eastbound lane of travel
on the Turnpike immediately in front of Mr. Cole and pulled into the path of the
Enterprise vehicle operated by Cole.
36. When confronted with the sudden emergency created by Rex Payton,
Keith Cole attempted to move to the left eastbound lane in order to avoid a collision.
-10-
He succeeded in moving partially into the left eastbound travel lane. However, because
of the negligence of Mr. Payton, he was not able to totally avoid the collision and the
right front corner of his unit impacted on the left rear corner of the trailer of the BFL unit.
37. The collision was solely the result of the negligence of Rex Payton as
discussed above and as set forth more fully in the counterclaim below, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
38. Mr. Payton attempted to enter the roadway of the Pennsylvania Turnpike
in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3324 which requires that the driver of a vehicle about to
enter a roadway from any place other than another roadway shall yield the right-of-way
to all vehicles approaching on the roadway to be entered or crossed.
39. Mr. Payton violated 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3312 in that he attempted to enter the
limited access highway from an area other than entrances and exits as are established
by public authority in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3312. Mr. Payton attempted to enter
the limited access highway from a pull off area where parking was prohibited.
40. Mr. Payton operated his vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of
persons or property by entering into the right eastbound travel lane of the Pennsylvania
Turnpike when such movement could not be made without jeopardizing the safety of
other users of the highway, including Keith Cole, in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A. §3714(a)
and (b).
41. Mr. Payton was guilty of reckless driving in that he operated his vehicle in
willful and wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property in violation of 75 Pa.
C.S.A. §3735.
-11-
42. Mr. Payton negligently failed to realize and failed to keep track of the
location of his vehicle relative to the travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and
allowed his vehicle to enter into the right eastbound travel lane immediately in front of
Keith Cole.
43. Plaintiff is barred from any recovery due to the negligence of its driver,
Rex Payton, or in the alternative, any recovery must be reduced pursuant to the
comparative negligence law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
WHEREFORE, Defendants demand that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with
prejudice.
COUNTERCLAIM
Enterprise Transportation Company v BFL Inc
44. The averments set forth in Paragraphs 1 through 43 above are
incorporated herein by reference.
45. On February 10, 2006, Rex Payton was operating the BFL unit involved in
the collision at issue in the course and scope of his employment or agency with Plaintiff
and Plaintiff is responsible for the acts and omissions of Rex Payton in the operation of
the BFL unit.
46. The February 10, 2006 collision was caused by the negligence,
carelessness and recklessness of BFL, Inc.'s agent or employee, Rex M. Payton, who
was at all material times acting within the course and scope of his employment and/or
agency for which negligence and carelessness BFL, Inc. is legally liable.
-12-
47. The negligence, carelessness and recklessness of Rex M. Payton include
but are not limited to the following particulars:
a. Pulling off of Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike and illegally
parking in a no parking zone in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A.
§3353(a)(1)(x), (a)(2)(vii) and (viii) and (a)(2)(ii);
b. Negligently failing to keep track of the position of his tractor-trailer
unit relative to the travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and
carelessly and negligently operating his vehicle so that it entered
the right eastbound travel lane immediately in front of Keith Cole
who was lawfully traveling in the right eastbound lane of Interstate
76/Pennsylvania Turnpike and so close to Mr. Cole that he was
unable to avoid a collision in violation of 75 Pa. C.S. §3334(ii);
C. Entering onto the roadway from a parked position when he was
unable to do so without creating an immediate hazard for on-
coming vehicles lawfully traveling in the right eastbound travel lane
of the Pennsylvania Turnpike in violation of 75 Pa. C.S. §3334;
d. Failing to yield the right of way to all vehicles approaching on the
roadway, including the Enterprise unit, as Mr. Payton was about to
enter the roadway from his parked position in violation of 75 Pa.
C.S.A. §3324;
e. Operating his vehicle in carelessness disregard for the safety of
persons or property resulting in the death of Keith Cole and severe
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damage to Enterprise's property in violation of 75 Pa. C.S.A.
§3714(a) and (b).
48. The negligence of BFL's employee and agent, Rex Payton, as set forth
above caused the collision that occurred when Mr. Cole, despite his efforts, could not
avoid a collision and the right front portion of his tractor struck the left rear corner of the
BFL trailer.
49. As a result of the collision, Mr. Cole died from severe burn injuries.
50. As a result of the collision, the Enterprise tractor unit caught fire and was
totally destroyed. The destroyed tractor was a 2004 International with VIN
3HSCNAPR14N022828, License Plate No. P496616, registered in the State of Illinois.
The fair market value of the tractor was $75,588.76.
51. The Enterprise tractor was pulling a 1984 Heil tanker, VIN
1 HLF1 D7132E9E39019. As a result of the collision, the tanker suffered substantial
damage requiring repairs before being placed back into service. The repairs have not
yet been completed but the estimated cost of the repairs is at least $12,349.
52. As a result of the collision, Enterprise lost the use of the tractor until a
suitable replacement unit could be purchased. Further, Enterprise lost the use of the
Heil tanker until the repairs could be completed. The amounts of these damages are
being calculated and claim is made for such loss of use.
53. In addition, Enterprise incurred other incidental costs including storage,
towing charges and debris removal. These damages are being calculated and claim is
made for such costs.
-14-
n
54. Enterprise's total property damages as a result of the collision are
$87,937.76, plus damages for loss of use and other incidental damages that are being
calculated.
WHEREFORE, Enterprise Transportation Company demands judgment in its
favor and against Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., in an amount in excess of the limits requiring
compulsory arbitration, together with delay damages and costs of suit.
McNEFS Vy"AXLACE & NURWK LLC
By
Delano M. Lard e---
I. D. #21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I . D. #80565
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Attorneys for Defendants
Dated: May 30, 2006
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r
0
VERIFICATION
Subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities, I hereby certify that I am the Director of Safety of Enterprise Transportation
Company and am authorized to verify the foregoing Answer and Counterclaim on its
behalf. I further certify that I have read the foregoing Answer and Counterclaim and
that the facts set forth therein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge,
information and belief.
Nola Everitt
Dated: May 11- , 2006
r
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document was served by first class mail, postage prepaid upon the following:
John A. Statler, Esquire
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner, P.C.
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA /T'7?43-0109
Delano M. La
Dated: May 30, 2006
VERIFICATION
Subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to
authorities, I hereby certify that I am the Director of Safety of Enterprise Transportation
Company and am authorized to verify the foregoing Complaint Against Additional
Defendant on its behalf. I further certify that I have read the foregoing Complaint
Against Additional Defendant and that the facts set forth therein are true and correct to
the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
Nolan Everitt
Dated: June ?tc , 2006
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document was served by first class mail, postage prepaid upon the following:
John A. Statler, Esquire
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner, P.C.
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
a
Kimberly K. Selemba
Dated: June 26, 2006
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. 0. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
BFL, INC.
V.
Plaintiff
Attorneys for Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
REPLY OF PLAINTIFF BFL, INC.
TO DEFENDANTS' NEW MATTER AND COUNTERCLAIM
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, BFL, Inc., by its attorneys, Johnson, Duffie, Stewart &
Weidner, P.C. who file the following Reply to the Defendants' New Matter and Counterclaim:
REPLY TO NEW MATTER
29. Plaintiff incorporates by reference the averments set forth in paragraphs 1
through 28 of its Complaint as if set forth at length.
30. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is specifically denied
that Keith Cole operated the tractor trailer unit owned by Enterprise Transportation Company in
accordance with the law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is further denied that Mr.
Cole operated the tractor trailer unit in a reasonable, prudent manner under the circumstances.
31. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is admitted that Mr.
Payton was operating the BFL tractor trailer unit in the course and scope of his employment with
BFL.
32. It is admitted that for a period of time prior to the subject accident, Mr. Payton
stopped his tractor trailer in an improved shoulder area on the south side of the eastbound
travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
33. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, the averments in this
paragraph are denied.
34. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Mr.
Cole was lawfully traveling in the right eastbound travel lane approaching the area of the
collision. It is admitted that Mr. Payton lawfully pulled out onto the travel portion of the
Pennsylvania Turnpike and was lawfully occupying the right eastbound lane of travel when his
trailer was impacted by the tractor trailer unit operated by Keith Cole.
35. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Mr.
Cole was lawfully approaching the area of the collision and denied that he was lawfully traveling
within the right eastbound lane of travel on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. By way of further
answer, it is denied that Mr. Payton violated Section 3334 of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle
Code and denied that he attempted to enter into the traffic stream from a parked position when
he was unable to make such entry with reasonable safety. It is admitted that Mr. Payton lawfully
entered into the right eastbound lane of travel on the Turnpike and was lawfully occupying that
lane when his trailer was struck from behind by the tractor operated by Mr. Cole. By way of
further answer, it is denied that Mr. Payton entered the right eastbound lane of travel of the
Turnpike immediately in front of Mr. Cole and denied that Mr. Payton pulled into the path of the
Enterprise vehicle operated by Cole.
36. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Rex
Payton created a sudden emergency for Keith Cole. Rather, if a sudden emergency existed
under the circumstances, it was created by the acts or omissions of Keith Cole. By way of
further answer, it is denied that Mr. Payton was negligent and denied that Mr. Cole was required
to take any evasive action as a result of any negligence of Mr. Payton. It is admitted that the
tractor operated by Mr. Cole impacted on the left rear corner of the trailer of the BFL unit.
37. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is specifically denied
that Rex Payton was negligent and denied that the collision was solely the result of any
negligence of Mr. Payton. By way of further answer, Plaintiff incorporates by reference its Reply
to the Defendants' Counterclaim as if set forth at length.
38. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Mr.
Payton attempted to enter the roadway of the Pennsylvania Turnpike in violation of §3324 of the
Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code which requires that the driver of a vehicle about to enter a
roadway from any place other than another roadway shall yield the right-of-way- to all vehicles
approaching on the roadway to be entered or crossed.
39. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Mr.
Payton violated §3312 of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code and denied that he attempted to
enter the limited access highway from an area other than entrances and exits as are established
by public authority in violation of the statute. It is further denied that Mr. Payton attempted to
enter the Pennsylvania Turnpike from a prohibited pull off area.
40. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Mr.
Payton operated his vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of persons or property by
entering into the right eastbound travel lane of the Pennsylvania Turnpike when such movement
could not be made without jeopardizing the safety of other users of the highway, including Keith
Cole. By way of further answer, it is denied that Mr. Payton violated §3714(a) and (b) of the
Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code.
41. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Mr.
4
Payton was guilty of reckless driving and denied that he operated his vehicle in willful and
wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property in violation of §3735 of the Pennsylvania
Motor Vehicle Code.
42. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Mr.
Payton was negligent and denied that he negligently failed to realize and failed to keep track of
the location of his vehicle relative to the travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and denied
that he allowed his vehicle to enter into the right eastbound lane of travel immediately in front of
Keith Cole.
43. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Rex
Payton was negligent and, therefore, denied that the Plaintiff is barred from any recovery or that
any recovery must be reduced pursuant to the comparative negligence law due to the
negligence of Rex Payton.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff BFL, Inc. respectfully requests that the Defendants' New Matter
be dismissed and that judgment be entered in favor of the Plaintiff and against the Defendants
in this case.
5
REPLY TO COUNTERCLAIM
EPCO. Inc. v. BFL. Inc.
44. Plaintiff incorporates by reference the averments set forth in paragraphs 1
through 28 of its Complaint as well as the averments set forth in paragraphs 29 through 43 of
the Reply to Defendants' New Matter as is set forth at length.
45. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is admitted that Rex
Payton was operating the BFL unit in the course and scope of his employment.
46. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Rex
Payton was negligent, careless and reckless and, therefore denied that the February 10, 2006
collision was caused by the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of BFL, Inc. agent or
employee, Rex Payton. The balance of the averments are denied as conclusions of law.
47. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that Rex
Payton was negligent, careless and reckless and denied that the negligence, carelessness and
recklessness of Rex Payton consisted of the following:
a. Pulling off of Interstate 76/Pennsylvania Turnpike and illegally parking in a
no parking zone in violation of §3353(a)(1)(x), (a) (2)(vii) and (viii) and
(a)(2)(ii);
6
b. Negligently failing to keep track of his tractor trailer unit relative to the
travel lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and carelessly and negligently
operating his vehicle so that it entered the right eastbound lane of travel
immediately in front of Keith Cole. By way of further answer, it is denied
that Mr. Cole was lawfully traveling in the right eastbound lane of Interstate
76/Pennysylvania Turnpike. It is further denied that Mr. Payton violated
§3334(ii) of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code;
C. Entering onto the roadway from a parked position when he was unable to
do so without creating an immediate hazard for oncoming vehicles lawfully
traveling in the right eastbound travel lane of the Pennsylvania Turnpike in
violation of §3334 of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code;
d. Failing to yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the roadway,
including the EPCO unit, as Mr. Payton was about to enter the roadway
from his parked position in violation of §3324 of the Pennsylvania Motor
Vehicle Code;
e. Operating his vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of persons or
property resulting in the death of Keith Cole and severe damage to
EPCO's property in violation of §3714(a) and (b) of the Pennsylvania
Motor Vehicle Code.
48. The averments in this paragraph constitute conclusions of law to which no
response is required. In the event a response is deemed to be required, it is denied that BFL's
employee and agent, Rex Payton was negligent and denied that any negligence of Mr. Payton
7
caused the collision that occurred when the tractor operated by Mr. Cole struck the left rear
corner of the BFL trailer.
49. It is admitted that Mr. Cole died from injuries sustained in the subject collision.
Bay way of further answer, Plaintiff is without information sufficient to form a belief as to the
truth or falsity of the averments concerning the exact cause of Mr. Cole's death and, therefore,
denies the same and demands strict proof at time of trial if deemed material.
50. It is admitted that the EPCO tractor unit caught fire as a result of the collision and
sustained damages. By way of further answer, Plaintiff is without information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the remaining averments concerning the specifications of the
tractor and its fair market value and, therefore, denies the same and demands strict proof at
time of trial if deemed material.
51. It is admitted that the tanker attached to the tractor operated by Keith Cole
sustained damages as a result of this collision. By way of further answer, after reasonable
investigation, Plaintiff is with information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth or falsity of the
averments concerning the specifications of the tanker and/or the cost of repairs and, therefore,
deny the same and demand strict proof at time of trial if deemed material.
52. Denied, after reasonable investigation, Plaintiff is without information sufficient to
form a belief as to the truth or falsity of the averments in this paragraph and, therefore, denies
the same and demands strict proof at time of trial if deemed material. By way of further answer,
8
Plaintiff asserts that Defendant EPCO had a duty to mitigate its damages by either utilizing a
spare replacement unit or renting a temporary unit until a replacement unit could be purchased.
53. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Plaintiff is without information sufficient
to form a belief as to the truth or falsity of the averments concerning EPCO's incidental costs
including storage, towing charges and debris removal and, therefore, denies the same and
demands strict proof at time of trial if deemed material.
54. Denied, after reasonable investigation, Plaintiff is without information sufficient to
form a belief as to the truth or falsity of the averments concerning the amount of EPCO's total
property damages plus damages for loss of use and other incidental damages and, therefore,
denies the same and demands strict proof at time of trial if deemed material.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff BFL, Inc. respectfully requests that the Counterclaim asserted
by Defendant EPCO, Inc. be dismissed and that judgment be entered in favor of Plaintiff BFL,
Inc. and against the Defendants in this case.
By:
DATE: f I I Q L
277921
14362-1
DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
John A. StatW, E$quire
Attorney I.D. No. 3812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff BFL, Inc.
9
JUL-1'_=2006 TUE 09:10 AM BFL Dispatch FAX NO. 2706880216 P. 01/01
VERIFICATION
I, MICHAEL AREND, hereby acknowledge that BFL, Inc. is the Plaintiff in this action and
that I am authorized to make this verification on its behalf; that I have read the foregoing Reply
to Defendants' New Matter and Reply to Defendants' Counterclaim; and that the facts stated
therein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief,
I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18 Pa. C.
S. Section 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
BFL, INC.
By:
MICHAEL AREND
Director of Operations
DATE: 7 //' /6)&
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing Reply of
Plaintiff BFL, Inc. to Defendants' New Matter and Counterclaim upon all parties or counsel of
record by depositing a copy of same in the United States Mail at Lemoyne, Pennsylvania, with
first-class postage prepaid on the LjUday of 2006, addressed to the
following:
Delano M. Lantz Esquire
Curtis N. Stambaugh, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
?"
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?-. _?
BFL, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Additional
Defendant
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ACCEPTANCE OF SERVICE
I accept service of the Complaint on behalf of Additional Defendant, Rex M.
Payment, and certify that I am authorized to do so.
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By
John A. Statler,
I. D. No 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Additional Defendant
Dated: 7/1Z 104
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Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
Wade D. Manley, Esquire
I.D. No. 87244
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jasQdsw.com
BFL, INC.
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Additional Defendant
TO: EPCO, INC., Defendant
c/o Delano M. Lantz, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street, P. O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE TO PLEAD
YOU ARE REQUIRED to plead to the within Answer With New Matter within 20 days of
service hereof or a default judgment may be entered against you.
J DUFFIE, STE ART & WEIDNER
By:
John A. Statler, e
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
DATE: 7/2 Le ?d G Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
Wade D. Manley, Esquire
I.D. No. 87244
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
BFL, INC.
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Additional Defendant
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER OF ADDITIONAL DEFENDANT
TO THE JOINDER COMPLAINT OF DEFENDANT. EPCO. INC.
AND NOW, comes the Additional Defendant, Rex M. Payton, by and through his
counsel, Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner, P.C., and files the following Answer with New
Matter to the Joinder Complaint of Defendant, EPCO, Inc.:
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Denied. The averments contained in the Answer with New Matter and
Counterclaim are specifically denied to the extent they have bearing on the Joinder Complaint of
the Defendant, EPCO, Inc. Additionally, the Additional Defendant, Rex M. Payton, incorporates
by reference herein the averments contained in the Complaint filed by BFL, Inc.
4. Denied. After reasonable investigation, the Additional Defendant is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as the truth or falsity of the averments
contained in this paragraph, and therefore the averments are denied and strict proof therefore is
demanded at the time of trial.
5. Admitted in part; Denied in part. It is admitted that the Defendant, Rex M.
Payton, is an adult individual. The remaining averments are specifically denied and strict proof
therefore is demanded at the time of trial. By way of further answer, the Defendant, Rex M.
Payton, currently resides at 1530 Wrights Landing Road, Owensboro, Kentucky 42303.
6. Admitted.
7. Admitted.
8. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the facts and
legal conclusions averred in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is
demanded at the time of trial. By way of further answer, it is admitted that, prior to the collision
that occurred on February 10, 2006 at approximately 1:25 a.m., the Additional Defendant
stopped his tractor trailer on the south side of the eastbound travel lane of the Pennsylvania
Turnpike.
9. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
10. Admitted.
2
11. Admitted.
12. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial. By way of further answer, it is specifically denied that Keith Cole approached the
area of the collision lawfully and it is specifically denied that Additional Defendant suddenly and
unexpectedly pulled into the right eastbound travel lane immediately in front of Keith Cole, and
strict proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial. Additionally, it is specifically denied that
Additional Defendant pulled into the right eastbound travel lane from an illegally parked position
and into the path of Mr. Cole and the EPCO vehicle operated by Mr. Cole, and strict proof
thereof is demanded at the time of trial. It is admitted that Mr. Payton lawfully pulled out onto
the travel portion of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and was lawfully occupying the right eastbound
lane of travel when his trailer was impacted by the tractor trailer unit operated by Keith Cole.
13. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial. By way of further answer, it is denied that Rex Payton created a sudden
emergency for Keith Cole. Rather, if a sudden emergency existed under the circumstances, it
was created by the acts or omissions of Keith Cole. By way of further answer, it is denied that
Mr. Payton was negligent and denied that Mr. Cole was required to take any evasive action as a
result of any negligence of Mr. Payton.
14. Admitted in part; Denied in part. It is admitted that Keith Cole was unable to
avoid causing the tractor trailer he was operating to collide with the tractor trailer being operated
by the Additional Defendant. After reasonable investigation, the Additional Defendant is without
3
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth or falsity of whether Keith Cole
succeeded in moving partially into the left eastbound travel lane, and therefore those averments
are denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
15. Admitted.
16. Admitted in part; Denied in part. It is admitted that, as a result of the collision,
the EPCO tractor unit caught fire and was totally destroyed. After reasonable investigation, the
Additional Defendant is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the
truth or falsity of the remaining averments contained in this paragraph, and therefore the
remaining averments are denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
17. Admitted in part; Denied in part. It is admitted that as a result of the collision
the tanker attached to the EPCO tractor unit suffered damage. After reasonable investigation,
the Additional Defendant is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the
truth or falsity of the remaining averments contained in this paragraph, and therefore the
remaining averments are denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
18. Denied. After reasonable investigation, the Additional Defendant is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as the truth or falsity of the averments
contained in this paragraph, and therefore the averments are denied and strict proof therefore is
demanded at the time of trial.
19. Denied. After reasonable investigation, the Additional Defendant is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as the truth or falsity of the averments
contained in this paragraph, and therefore the averments are denied and strict proof therefore is
demanded at the time of trial.
20. Denied. After reasonable investigation, the Additional Defendant is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as the truth or falsity of the averments
4
contained in this paragraph, and therefore the averments are denied and strict proof therefore is
demanded at the time of trial.
21. Admitted.
22. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial. By way of further answer, it is denied that the Additional Defendant violated
Section 3334 of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code and denied that he attempted to enter
into the traffic stream from a parked position when he was unable to make such entry with
reasonable safety. It is admitted that the Additional Defendant lawfully entered into the right
eastbound lane of travel on the Turnpike and was lawfully occupying that lane when his trailer
was struck from behind by the tractor operated by Mr. Cole.
23. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial. By way of further answer, it is denied that the Additional Defendant attempted to
enter the roadway of the Pennsylvania Turnpike in violation of §3324 of the Pennsylvania Motor
Vehicle Code which requires that the driver of a vehicle about to enter a roadway from any
place other than another roadway shall yield the right-of-way- to all vehicles approaching on the
roadway to be entered or crossed.
24. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial. By way of further answer, it is denied that the Additional Defendant violated §3312
5
of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code and denied that he attempted to enter the limited
access highway from an area other than entrances and exits as are established by public
authority in violation of the statute.
25. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial. By way of further answer, it is denied that the Additional Defendant operated his
vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of persons or property by entering into the right
eastbound travel lane of the Pennsylvania Turnpike when such movement could not be made
without jeopardizing the safety of other users of the highway, including Keith Cole. By way of
further answer, it is denied that the Additional Defendant violated §3714(a) and (b) of the
Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code.
26. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial. By way of further answer, it is denied that the Additional Defendant was guilty of
reckless driving and denied that he operated his vehicle in willful and wanton disregard for the
safety of persons or property in violation of §3735 of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code.
COUNTI
(Negligence)
EPCO. Inc. v. Rex M. Payton
27. Additional Defendant incorporates by reference Paragraphs 1 through 26 of their
Answer to Defendant's Joinder Complaint as if fully set forth herein.
6
28. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
29. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
30. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
31. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to
which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
32. Admitted in part; Denied in part. It is admitted that Keith Cole died from burn
injuries. The remaining averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law to which
no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments contained in
this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
33. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
7
34, Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
35. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
36. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
37. Denied. The averments contained in this paragraph are conclusions of law and
fact to which no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required, the averments
contained in this paragraph are specifically denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at the
time of trial.
WHEREFORE, Additional Defendant, Rex M. Payton, respectfully requests that
judgment be entered in his favor and that the Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
NEW MATTER
By way of additional answer and reply, Additional Defendant raises the following new
matters:
38. Some or all of the Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s, claims are barred by the applicable
statute of limitations.
8
39. Some or all of the Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s claims are barred in whole or in part
and/or are limited by the provisions of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility
Law (75 Pa.C.S.A. §1701, et. seq.), and especially by §1722 of that law.
40. Discovery may reveal that the Defendant, EPCO, Inc. has failed to mitigate their
damages.
41. Discovery may reveal that some or all of the Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s alleged
injuries, conditions, or damages pre-existed the date of the subject accident and were not
caused or aggravated by this accident.
42. Discovery may reveal that some or all of the Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s injuries,
conditions or damages were caused by the events that occurred subsequent to the subject
accident.
43. To the extent that the Defendant, EPCO, Inc. has been or will be paid for some
or all of their damages, then the claims for those damages are barred both by §1722 of the
Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law and by the defense of payment
generally.
44. The Defendant, EPCO, Inc. has failed to state a cause of action upon which any
relief of any kind can be granted.
45. The Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s causes of action alleged are barred in whole or in
part by the doctrines of comparative negligence and/or contributory negligence, as may be
applied to the facts disclosed in discovery.
46. The mechanism in Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s alleged injuries was under the care,
custody and control of persons or entities other than the Answering Defendants.
9
47. The mechanism in Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s alleged injuries was under the care,
custody and control of persons or entities other than the Answering Defendants, such persons
including but not limited to the Defendant, EPCO, Inc.
48. The Defendant, EPCO, Inc.'s causes of actions alleged damages claimed by the
Defendant, EPCO, Inc. that were created and/or caused by individuals under circumstances
over whom the Answering Defendants had no control or right to control.
49. Sudden and unexpected conditions at the time of the accident created a sudden
emergency for drivers on the roadway, including the Additional Defendant, Rex M. Payton.
WHEREFORE, the Additional Defendant respectfully requests that the Defendant,
EPCO, Inc.'s Joinder Complaint be dismissed with prejudice and that judgment be entered in
favor of the Additional Defendant.
Respectfully submitted,
J?DUFFIE, ST WART & WEIDNER
By.
John A. Statler, ' e
I. D. No 43812
Wade D. Manley, Esquire
I. D. No. 87244
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
and Additional Defendant
DATE: 7/Z4/o6
:279105
14362-1
10
VERIFICATION
1, REX M. PAYTON, hereby acknowledge that I am the Additional Defendant in this
action; that I have read the foregoing Answer With New Matter of Additional Defendant To
Joinder Complaint of Defendant Epco, Inc.; and that the facts stated therein are true and
correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18 Pa.
C.S. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
By: (ie) m
RE M. PAYTON
DATE:
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing Answer With
New Matter of Additional Defendant to the Joinder Complaint of Defendant, EPCO, Inc. upon all
parties or counsel of record by depositing a copy of same in the United States Mail at Lemoyne,
Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid on the day of U 2006,
addressed to the following:
Delano M. Lantz Esquire
Curtis N. Stambaugh, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street
P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff and
Additional Defendant
rvP
`:i
-t
Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
Kimberly A. Selemba
I.D. No. 93535
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street , P. 0. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorneys for Defendants
BFL, INC.,
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
REX M. PAYTON,
Additional defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF SUBPOENA TO
PRODUCE DOCUMENTS/THINGS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to
Rule 4009.22, Defendant hereby certifies that:
(1) A Notice of Intent to serve the subpoena, with a copy of the subpoena
attached thereto, was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty days prior to the
date on which the subpoena is to be served;
(2) A copy of the Notice of Intent to Serve Subpoena (to PA State Police)
is attached to this Certificate;
(3) Counsel for Plaintiff and additional defendant has waived the twenty-day
waiting period. A copy of the signed Waiver is attached hereto.
McNEES WALLACE & NURICK LLC
By Imb a. a _
Dela o M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
Kimberly A. Selemba
I.D. No. 93535
100 Pine Street, P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Dated: September 1q, 2006 Attorneys for Defendant
-2-
Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street , P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorneys for Defendants
BFL, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Additional defendant
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENAS TO PRODUCE
DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
TO: BFL, Inc., Plaintiff and Rex M. Payton, Additional Defendant
and their attorney, John Statler, Esquire
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that defendants intend to serve a subpoena
identical to the one attached to this Notice. You have twenty days (20) days from
the date listed below in which to file of record and serve up the undersigned any
objection to the subpoena. If no objection is made, subpoena may be served.
McN S LACE & R K LLC
By
Dated: September 11, 2006
Delano M. LaM
I. D. #21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. #80565
100 Pine Street, P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
(717) 237-5348
Attorneys for Defendant
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
BFL, INC.
Plaintiff File No.06-2312-Civil
VS.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
VS. Defendants
Rex Payton SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
A . De f t. FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
Colonel Jeffrey B. Miller, Commissioner
TO: Pennsylvania State Police, 1800 Elmerton Ave, Harrisburg, PA
(Name of Person or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days alter service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things:
SEE EXHIBIT "A" to SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS/THINGS
ATTACHED HERETO
*at McNees Wallace & Nurick (Attn: Delano Lantz, Esq.), 100 Pine St.
P.O. 'Box 1166, Harr i sburg, (Address) PA 17108
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this
subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed
above. You have the right to seek in advance the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the
things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within twenty (20) days
after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
NAME: Delano M. Lantz, Esquire
ADDRESS: McNees Wallace & brick LLC
100 Pine Street, P.O. Box 1166
TELEPHONE: 17) 237-5348
SUPREME COURT ID # 214 01
ATTORNEY FOR: ?P f P an fi
BY
COURT:
Prothonotary, Civil Di
C
Date.
'Sea) of e Co
Deputy
EXHIBIT "A" TO SUBPOENA TO
COLONEL JEFFREY MILLER, COMMISSIONER,
PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE
You are required to produce the following documents and/or things:
Any and all documents and/or things relating to Incident No. T05-5020069,
including, but not limited to, any accident reconstruction reports, complete
incident reports and/or crash reports, supplemental reports, diagrams, any
witness statements, any photographs and/or videotapes relating to a motor
vehicle accident that occurred on February 10, 2006 on the Pennsylvania
Turnpike, eastbound at milepost 214. 1, in Upper Frankford Township,
Cumberland County. The individuals/companies involved in the accident
were Keith Cole, deceased, Rex Payton, BFL, Inc. and Enterprise
Transportation Company.
BFL, Inc. vs. Eric Cole, Admin. of Estate of Keith Cole and Enterprise Transportation Co.
vs. Rex Payton - Cumberland County, C.C.P. No. 06-2312 - Civil
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document was served by first class mail, postage prepaid upon the following:
John A. Statler, Esquire
Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner, P.C.
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
a
ath ocum
Paralegal
Dated: September 11, 2006
Delano M. Lantz
I.D. No. 21401
Curtis N. Stambaugh
I.D. No. 80565
McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC
100 Pine Street, P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorneys for Defendants
BFL, INC., : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
Plaintiff CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V. NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Additional defendant
WAIVER OF TWENTY DAY WAITING PERIOD
I hereby acknowledge that I have received Defendants' Notice of Intent to
Serve Subpoenas to Produce Documents and Things for Discovery Pursuant to
Rule 4009.21 in the above-captioned matter (subpoena directed to PA State Police),
that I hereby waiver the twenty-day waiting period required by the above-referenced
Rule; that I permit counsel wanting to serve the subpoena to serve the subpoena
immediately.
Dated: ! //2 / d G
7<Z,_ -
Counsel for BFL,
and Rex M. Payton
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that on this date a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document was served by first class mail, postage prepaid upon the following:
John A. Statler, Esquire
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner, P.C.
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
UN IJA?A
Kimberl . Selemba
Dated: September 14, 2006
[?
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. I , 1
Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner
By: Kelly L. Bonanno, Esquire
I.D. No. 200811
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
klb@jdsw.com
BFL, INC.
V.
Plaintiff
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Defendant
for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
JURY TRIAL DE
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE
As a prerequisite to service of subpoenas for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, Defendant hereby certifies that:
1) A Notice of Intent to serve the subpoenas, with a
thereto, was mailed or delivered to each party at
which the subpoenas were sought to be served;
2) A copy of the Notice of Intent, including the props
this certificate;
of the subpoenas attached
20 days prior to the date on
subpoenas, are attached to
3) No objection to the subpoenas has been received and
4) The subpoenas to be served are identical to the s bpoi
of Intent.
By:
as attached to the Notice
DATE: jk ?U
285351
nervy L{Jaon nno, tsgpire
Attorney I. D. No. 200811
301 Market S treet
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, P 17043-0109
Telephone (7 7) 761-4540
Attorneys for ?Iaintiff and Additional Defendant
4
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: Kelly L. Bonanno, Esquire
I.D. No. 200811
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
klb@jdsw.com
BFL, INC.
V.
Plaintiff
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
IN THE COURT
CUMBERLAND
CIVIL ACTION -
for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
COMMON PLEAS
JNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
W
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
Defendant : JURY TRIAL DE ANDED
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBP ENAS TO
PRODUCE DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR
TO: EPCO, INC., DEFENDANT
c/o Delano M. Lantz, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street; P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorneys for Defendant Eric Cole, Administrator for
the Estate of Keith Cole and Enterprise Transportation
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Plaintiff BFL, Inc., and Defendant Rex M. Payton intend to
serve subpoenas identical to the ones attached to this notice. Y u have 20 days from the date
listed below in which to file on record and serve upon the undersi ned an objection to the
subpoenas. If no objection is made, the subpoenas may be served.
JOHNSON, DUFFIE? STEWART & WEIDNER
By:
L
DATE: al 'u' 'm%'
no, tsquire
AttorneM.D. o. 200811
301 Market S treet
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (7- 17) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
BFL, INC.
V.
Plaintiff
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
TO:
Defendant
: CIVIL ACTION - LA
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
(Name of Person or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents
or things:
Copies of any and all medical records, medical reports, office notes, and/or correspondence related to any and all
drug, alcohol and/or toxicology testing pertaining to any evaluation, care or treatment rendered to Keith Cole;
Date of Birth: 10-04-1949; Social Security Number 235-76-8791.
at Kellv T.- Rnnannn JP--;- T-L___- --
(Address)
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requ
certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed at
vane, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within
party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply wi
THIS Subpoena WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING
NAME: TCPIIv T ? ' - --
ADDRESS:
TELEPHONE:
by this subpoena, together with the
You have the right to seek, in ad
'nty (20) days after its service, the
it.
SUPREME COURT ID # 200811
ATTORNEY FOR: Plaintiff and Additional Defendants By the
DATE:
Seal of the Court
Frothonotary
285355 1 Deputy
.r "J. ..
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that I served a true and correct co y of the foregoing Notice of
Intent to Serve Subpoena to Produce Documents and Things F r Discovery Pursuant to Rule
4009.21 and Subpoena upon all parties or counsel of record byl,depositing a copy of same in the
United States Mail at Lemoyne, Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid on the 3'Qay
of Q C'7z?c,
2006, addressed to the following:
Delano M. Lantz, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street; P. 0. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By:
Kelry L. E;6jar n , E
Attorney(.. No. 2C
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 1704
Telephone (717) 76
Attorneys for Plainti-
11
-0109
-4540
and Additional Defendant
285378
t
C'? '
L...,. C--
t7 I' rl I
C.!'1 rT.
-
- N xy
Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner
By: Kelly A. Bonanno, Esquire
I.D. No. 200811
301 Market Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
klb@jdsw.com
BFL, Inc.,
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, Administrator for the Estate
of KEITH COLE and ENTERPRISE
TRANSPORTATION CO.,
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Defendant
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
Jury Trial Demanded
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE
OF SUBPOENAS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of Subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, Plaintiff and Defendant hereby certifies that:
1) A Notice of Intent to serve the Subpoena, with a copy of the Subpoena attached
thereto, was mailed or delivered to each party at least 20 days prior to the date on
which the Subpoena were sought to be served;
2) A copy of the Notice of Intent, including the proposed Subpoena, are attached to
this certificate;
3) No objection to the subpoenas has been received; and
4) The Subpoena to be served are identical to the Subpoena attached to the Notice of
Intent.
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By:
Key A. anno, Esquire
I.D. No. 811
301 Market Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
DATE: 1115107 Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: Kelly A. Bonanno, Esquire
I.D. No. 200811
301 Market Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
klb@jdsw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
BFL, Inc.,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
ERIC COLE, Administrator for the Estate
of KEITH COLE and ENTERPRISE
TRANSPORTATION CO.,
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Defendant
No. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
Jury Trial Demanded
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENAS TO
PRODUCE DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR
DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
TO: EPCO, INC., Defendant
c/o Delano M. Lantz, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street; P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorney for Defendant Eric Cole, Administrator of the
Estate of Keith Cole and Enterprise Transportation Co.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Plaintiff BFL, Inc., and Defendant Rex M. Payton intend to
serve a Subpoena identical to the one attached to this notice. You have 20 days from the date
listed below in which to file on record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the
subpoenas. If no objection is made, the subpoenas may be served.
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
By:
Kelly A nno, Esquire
I.D. No. 0811
301 Market Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
DATE: 1 f/v? Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
rla
Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner
By: Kelly A. Bonanno, Esquire
I.D. No. 200811
301 Market Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
kib@jdsw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
BFL, Inc.,
V.
Plaintiff
ERIC COLE, Administrator for the Estate
of KEITH COLE and ENTERPRISE
TRANSPORTATION CO.,
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Defendant
Jury Trial Demanded
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE
OF SUBPOENAS PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of Subpoena for documents and things pursuant to Rule
4009.22, Plaintiff and Defendant hereby certifies that:
1) A Notice of Intent to serve the Subpoena, with a copy of the Subpoena attached
thereto, was mailed or delivered to each party at least 20 days prior to the date on
which the Subpoena were sought to be served;
2) A copy of the Notice of Intent, including the proposed Subpoena, are attached to
this certificate;
3) No objection to the subpoenas has been received; and
4) The Subpoena to be served are identical to the Subpoena attached to the Notice of
Intent.
JOHNSON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
DATE:
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
By:
Kelly A. Jonarrho, Esquire
I.D. o. 00811
301 et Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
F
1
Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner
By: Kelly A. Bonanno, Esquire
I.D. No. 200811
301 Market Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
klb@jdsw.com
BFL, Inc.,
V.
Plaintiff
ERIC COLE, Administrator for the Estate
of KEITH COLE and ENTERPRISE
TRANSPORTATION CO.,
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Defendant
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
Jury Trial Demanded
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENAS TO
PRODUCE DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR
DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
TO: EPCO, INC., Defendant
c/o Delano M. Lantz, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street; P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
Attorney for Defendant Eric Cole, Administrator of the
Estate of Keith Cole and Enterprise Transportation Co.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Plaintiff BFL, Inc., and Defendant Rex M. Payton intend to
serve a Subpoena identical to the one attached to this notice. You have 20 days from the date
listed below in which to file on record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the
subpoenas. If no objection is made, the subpoenas may be served.
JOHNSON, DUFFLE, STEWART & WEIDNER
DATE: ?'/g - O-/
Kelly Bo no, Esquire
I.D. N 20b811
301 Ma W Street; P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff and Additional Defendant
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
BFL, INC.
V.
Plaintiff
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
ENTERPRISE TRANSPORTATION CO.
Defendant
V.
REX M. PAYTON,
Defendant : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Lehigh County Coroner; Old Courthouse; Room 105; 501 West Hamilton Street; Allentown PA 18101-1614
(Name of Person or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents
or things:
Copies of medical records, medical reports, office notes, and/or correspondence related to any and all drug,
alcohol and/or toxicology testing rendered to Keith Cole; Date of Birth: 10-04-1949; Social Security Number 235-
76-8791.
at Kelly L. Bonanno, Esquire; Johnson, Duffie, Stewart & Weidner; 301 Market Street, Lemovne. PA 17043
(Address)
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requesting by this subpoena, together with the
certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek, in ad
vane, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the
party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
THIS Subpoena WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON.
NAME: Kelly L. Bonanno, Esquire; Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner P.C.
ADDRESS: 301 Market Street
Lemoyne, PA 17043
TELEPHONE: (717) 761-4540
SUPREME COURT ID # 200811
ATTORNEY FOR: Plaintiff and Additional Defendants By the Court:
DATE:
Seal of the Court
293422
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
Prothonotary
Deputy
-_,
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.rq
Johnson, Duffle, Stewart & Weidner
By: John A. Statler, Esquire
I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P. O. Box 109
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania 17043-0109
(717) 761-4540
jas@jdsw.com
BFL, INC.
Plaintiff
V.
ERIC COLE, ADMINISTRATOR FOR
THE ESTATE OF KEITH COLE and
EPCO, INC.,
Defendants
Attorneys for Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
: NO. 06-2312 CIVIL TERM
V.
REX M. PAYTON, : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
Additional Defendant
PRAECIPE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY:
Please mark the above-captioned action discontinued and ended with prejudice on the docket.
J ON, DUFFIE, STEWART & WEIDNER
BY:
John A. Statler,
Attorney I.D. No. 43812
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
DATE: Attorneys for Plaintiff
318326
14362-1
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
1 HEREBY CERTIFY that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing Praecipe
upon all parties or counsel of record by depositing a copy of same in the United States Mail at
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid on the S? day of M,6 4 1 jg r-Y
2008, addressed to the following:
Delano M. Lantz, Esquire
McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC
100 Pine Street; P.O. Box 1166
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1166
E, STfWART & WEIDNER
By:
John A'Stat4 ui
Attorney I.D. No. 43
301 Market Street
P.O. Box 109
Lemoyne, PA 17043-0109
Telephone (717) 761-4540
Attorneys for Plaintiff
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