HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-4016IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
Plaintiff,
CIVIL ACTION
NO.: q0jL
V.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER's INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
CENTRAL CORPORATION, Individually
and/or as Successor-in-interest-or-liability
to any other entity, PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY
TYPE OF PLEADING:
COMPLAINT IN CIVIL ACTION
FILED ON BEHALF OF:
PLAINTIFF, ROBERT HARPSTER
COUNSEL OF RECORD FOR THIS
PARTY:
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
PA I.D. # 30297
Defendants
TO: Defendants
You are hereby notified to plead to the
enclosed COMPLAINT IN CIVIL ACTION
within twenty (20) days from service hereof
or a default judgment may be entered against
you. i
& ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY:
McKENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
436 Boulevard of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
(412) 471-6226
EKenna, Esquire
for Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER CIVIL ACTION
Plaintiff, CASE #
VS.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
CENTRAL CORPORATION, Individually
and/or as Successor-in-interest-or-liability
to any other entity, PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY
Defendants.
NOTICE 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
an attorney, and filing in writing with the Court your defenses or objections to the claims
set forth against you. You are warned that if you failed 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 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, THEN YOU SHOULD GO TO OR TELEPHONE
THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH
INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER.
IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE
ABLE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY
OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO
FEE.
Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue,
Carlisle, Pennsylvania
717-249-3166
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER CIVIL ACTION nn //
Plaintiff, CASE # vs.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER's INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
CENTRAL CORPORATION, Individually
and/or as Successor-in-interest-or-liability
to any other entity, PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY
Defendants.
COMPLAINT IN CIVIL ACTION
AND NOW, comes the Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, by and through his
attorneys, McKENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C., and files the following Complaint in Civil
Action and in support thereof avers as follows:
1. The Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, (hereinafter referred to as "Plaintiff'), is an
adult-individual who resides at 404 Brick Church Rd., Enola, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania 17025.
2. The Defendant, NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY, (hereinafter
referred to as "Defendant") is a Virginia Corporation that conducts and transacts business
throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and is involved in the movement of
freight in interstate commerce and foreign commerce.
3. That all times relevant hereto, the Defendant, NORFOLK SOUTHERN
RAILWAY COMPANY, is involved and does maintain a principal place of business in
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
4. Consolidated Rail Corporation is a Pennsylvania Corporation, conducting and
doing business in and about Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and is and was, at all
times relevant hereto, engaged in interstate commerce in and throughout the several states
of the United States as a common carrier by rail, and for that purpose, operated
locomotives, railroad cars and transacted substantial business in and about Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania.
5. American Premier Underwriters, Inc., formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
CORPORATION, individually and/or as successor-in-interest-or liability to any other
entity, PENN CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION COMPANY, the Trustees of the
Property of the PENN CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION COMPANY, the Trustees of
the Property of the PENN CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION, PENNSYLVANIA
RAILROAD, NEW YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH VALLEY RAILROAD
COMPANY, and/or ERIE LACKAWANNA, INC. ("AMERICAN UNDERWRITERS"),
are and were at all times corporations duly organized, created and existing under the laws
of the State of Pennsylvania and are and were at all times hereinafter mentioned a
common carrier in interstate transportation and commerce by railroad.
6. At all times relevant hereto, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER herein was and is
employed by the Defendant, NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY and its
predecessors in interest the defendants herein named, as a trainman, as the term is defined
under Section 45 U.S.C. § 51, and as such was engaged by the Defendants to perform
duties in the furtherance of its business interest and movement of freight in interstate and
foreign commerce by Defendants.
7. At all times relevant hereto, Defendants acted by and through its agents, servants
or employees who were acting within the scope of their respective employment.
8. The acts of omission and commission causing injuries to the Plaintiff, ROBERT
HARPSTER, were done by the Defendants, their agents, servants, workmen and/or
employees, acting within the course and scope of their employment with and under the
direct and exclusive control of the Defendant herein named.
9. All of the property, equipment and operations involved in Plaintiff, ROBERT
HARPSTER's injury were owned and/or under the direct and exclusive control of the
Defendant, NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY, or any of its agents,
servants, workmen and/or employees as predecessors in interest the defendants herein
named.
10. During Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER's entire working career and while
working within the course and scope of his employment for Defendant, NORFOLK
SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY, and/or its predecessors in interest the defendants
herein named, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, was injured due to the unsafe and
inadequate working conditions.
11. This action arises under the Federal Employers' Liability Act, 45 U.S.C. § 51 et
seq..
12. Throughout Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER's employment, Plaintiff, ROBERT
HARPSTER, while working within the scope of his employment for Defendants,
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY and/or its predecessors in interest, the
defendants herein named, as a trainman, was continuously and repeatedly required to
perform repetitive, forceful and awkward motions utilizing his lower extremities which
included excessive kneeling, squatting, stooping and bending; and was required to walk
on uneven and unstable surfaces and to get on and off of moving equipment which
caused the Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, to sustain severe and permanent injury to his
lower extremities, including, but not limited to, his hips and knees.
13. Throughout his employment with Defendants, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER,
was continuously unaware of the dangerous effects of exposing his lower extremities to
repetitive, forceful and awkward motions.
14. Throughout his employment with Defendants, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER,
was continuously unaware of the dangerous effects of excessive kneeling, bending,
squatting, stooping and bending of the lower extremities.
15. Throughout his employment with Defendants, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER,
was continuously unaware of the dangerous effects to his lower extremities from walking
and working on uneven and unstable surfaces and the harmful effects of getting on and
off of moving equipment.
16. Throughout his employment with Defendants, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER,
was continuously unaware that any and all of the above mentioned exposures and/or
conditions could cause severe and permanent injuries to his lower extremities.
17. Throughout Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER's employment with Defendants, said
Defendants knew, or in the exercise of proper diligence should have known, of the
presence and existence of the aforementioned dangers within Plaintiff, ROBERT
HARPSTER's working environment.
18. The injuries and damages to Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER being complained
of were directly and proximately caused by the negligence of the Defendants, their
agents, servants or employees while acting within the nature and scope of their
employment for the Defendants in the following respects:
a. in violating the Federal Employers' Liability Act;
b. in failing to provide Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, with a reasonably
safe place to work;
C. in requiring Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, to perform repetitive,
forceful and awkward motions utilizing his lower extremities which also
involved excessive kneeling, squatting, stooping and bending;
d. in requiring Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, to repeatedly walk and work
on dangerous, uneven, and unstable surfaces;
e. in requiring Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, to get on and off of moving
equipment;
f. in failing to provide Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, with the proper
protective equipment;
g. in failing to warn Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, of the dangers posed
by the aforementioned work activities;
h. in failing to periodically inspect and/or test its workplace;
i. in allowing unsafe practices to become standard practice;
j. in failing to properly train, educate and/or warn Plaintiff of the hazards in
the workplace;
k. in failing to comply with existing federal and state statutes and safety
regulations;
1. in failing to comply with its' own rules, work practices and procedures;
M. in failing to provide Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, with adequate
manpower to safely do his job;
n. in failing to provide proper tools and equipment;
o. in assigning Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, to work beyond his physical
and medical capabilities;
p. in failing to provide proper medical supervision and care;
q. in failing to comply with State and Federal Safety Regulations, including
OSHA standards;
r. in failing to monitor the work place;
S. in failing to take precautions to prevent repeated injuries to Plaintiff,
ROBERT HARPSTER's extremities including his right and left hips,
ligaments, bone and joints;
t. in failing to provide a safe work place to work or provide for Plaintiff,
ROBERT HARPSTER's safety when Defendants knew and were aware
that the Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, had suffered injury to his right
and left hips, lower back and knees, ligaments, bone and joints;
U. in knowing and aware that the Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, had
sustained injuries to his right and left hips, lower back, knees and joints;
V. in failing to provide proper splints or braces;
W. in failing to take any precautions to provide for Plaintiff, ROBERT
HARPSTER's safety, thereby continually subjecting Plaintiff, ROBERT
HARPSTER, to continuous excessive stress, repetitive motions and
vibrations, causing injury to Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER's right and
left hips, lower back and knees in aggravation of these conditions after
Defendants knew or should have known of Plaintiff, ROBERT
HARPSTER's injuries;
X. in continually requiring Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, to work and be
exposed to the hazards stated above, thereby, directly and proximately
causing Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER's injuries.
Y. in failing to adjust, alter, counter weigh or counter balance the tools and
equipment;
Z. in failing to employ or hire a trained ergonomist to test, monitor, educate
and produce Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER with a safe place to work;
and
aa. in failing to provide proper ballast and walking surface.
19. As a direct and proximate result of the aforementioned negligence of the
Defendants or any of its agents, servants, workmen and/or employees, the Plaintiff,
ROBERT HARPSTER, has suffered cumulative trauma and repetitive stress to his lower
extremities, right and left hips, bones, ligaments and joints, which has resulted in the
following damages and/or injuries, some or all of which maybe permanent;
a. advanced DJD of left hip;
b. moderate degenerative changes in the right hip;
C. lateral epicondylitis on the right; left leg, hip and groin pain;
d. right elbow pain;
e. degenerative disc disease throughout the lumbar spine;
f. left hip advanced end-stage DJD;
g. left total hip replacement;
h. pre-patellar bursitis of the left knee.
20. As a further direct and proximate result of the negligence and/or careless conduct
of Defendants or any of its agents, servants, workmen and/or employees, Plaintiff,
ROBERT HARPSTER, has in the past and may in the future sustain the following
damages:
a. loss of enjoyment of life;
b. change of lifestyle;
C. loss of wages and fringe benefits;
d. loss of earning capacity;
e. medical expenses;
f. pain and suffering;
g. mental anguish;
h. personal financial loss; and
i. continuing pain and disability.
21. Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, did not contribute to any of these injuries.
22. To the extent if any, the Plaintiff has a pre-existing condition affecting his back or
lower extremities, the Plaintiff will show that such condition or conditions were
aggravated by the conduct of the Defendants as described above.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, respectfully requests that judgment be entered
in favor of the Plaintiff and against the Defendant, NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, together with costs and disbursements of this action in an amount in excess of
compulsory arbitration limits.
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
BY:
MALI{ F. McKENNA, ESQ.
Attorneys for Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER
McKENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
436 Boulevard of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
(412) 471-6226
VERIFICATION
I am the Plaintiff in this matter and am represented by counsel. I have furnished to my
counsel factual information upon which the foregoing is based. To the extent that it is based on
the factual information provided to counsel, I verify that those facts are true and correct to the
best of my knowledge, information and belief However, the language is that of counsel and, to
the extent that it goes beyond the factual information which I have provided to counsel. I have
relied upon counsel in making this verification.
I understand that false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.
Section 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
DATE: S III //rA-I
ROBERT HARPSTER
b ? 4
-?Z`'
t
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
Plaintiff,
V.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
CENTRAL CORPORATION, Individually
and/or as Successor-in-interest-or-liability
to any other entity, PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY
CIVIL ACTION
NO.: 06.3 z2 Ypl/
TYPE OF PLEADING:
PRAECIPE TO REINSTATE THE
COMPLAINT
FILED ON BEHALF OF:
PLAINTIFF, ROBERT HARPSTER
COUNSEL OF RECORD FOR THIS
PARTY:
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
PA I.D. # 30297
Defendants McKENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
436 Boulevard of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
(412) 471-6226
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER CIVIL DIVISION
Plaintiff, NO.: GD 06-3724
v
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
CENTRAL CORPORATION, Individually
and/or as Successor-in-interest-or-liability
to any other entity, PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY
Defendants.
PRAECIPE TO REINSTATE COMPLAINT
TO: PROTHONOTARY
Kindly reinstate the Complaint in regard to the above-captioned matter.
Respectfully submitted,
& ASSOCIATES, P.C.
F. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
ys for Robert Harpster
C
t- ? t
1a
co
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER
Plaintiff,
v.
CIVIL DIVISION
04-W(o
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
CENTRAL CORPORATION, Individually
and/or as Successor-in-interest-or-liability
to any other entity, PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY
Defendants.
PRAECIPE TO REINSTATE COMPLAINT
TO: PROTHONOTARY
Kindly reinstate the Complaint in regard to the above-captioned matter.
Respectfully submitted,
McKENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
By:.._ Airk 'r kk
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQ RE
Attorneys for Robert Harpster
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER, CIVIL ACTION
PLAINTIFF,
VS.
NO: 06-4016 - CIVIL TERM
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN PRAECIPE FOR APPEARANCE
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S, INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
Individually and/or as Successor-in-
interest-or-liability to any other entity,
PENN CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION
COMPANY, PENNSYLVANIA
RAILROAD, NEW YORK CENTRAL
RAILROAD, LEHIGH VALLEY,
DEFENDANTS
Filed on behalf of Defendants,
Consolidated Rail Corporation.
American Premier Underwriters, Inc.
Norfolk Southern Railway Company
Counsel of Record for these Parties:
Daniel J. Hampton, Esquire
Pa. ID# 82456
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
Firm # 828
Four Northshore Center
106 Isabella Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 995-3000
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
t
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
PLAINTIFF,
VS.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY,
COMPANY, ET AL.,
DEFENDANTS.
CIVIL DIVISION
NO. 06-4016 - Civil Term
PRAECIPE FOR APPEARANCE
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE FOR APPEARANCE
TO: Curtis R. Long - Prothonotary
Kindly enter my Appearance on behalf of Defendants, Norfolk Southern Railway
Company, Consolidated Rail Corporation and American Premier Underwriters, Inc., with
reference to the above-captioned matter.
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
By,
aniel J. Hampt s ire
Attorney for Defendants
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on this 12th day of October 2006, a copy of the within
PRAECIPE FOR APPEARANCE was served via first class mail, postage prepaid on
Counsel for Plaintiff:
Mark F. McKenna, Esquire
MCKENNA & ASSOCIATES
436 Blvd. of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
By
r
Cam':
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER, CIVIL ACTION
PLAINTIFF,
VS.
NO: 06-4016 - CIVIL TERM
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN ANSWER AND NEW MATTER
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S, INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
Individually and/or as Successor-in-
interest-or-liability to any other entity,
PENN CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION
COMPANY, PENNSYLVANIA
RAILROAD, NEW YORK CENTRAL
RAILROAD, LEHIGH VALLEY,
DEFENDANTS
Filed on behalf of Defendants,
Consolidated Rail Corporation.
American Premier Underwriters, Inc.
Norfolk Southern Railway Company
Counsel of Record for these Parties:
Daniel J. Hampton, Esquire
Pa. ID# 82456
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
Firm # 828
Four Northshore Center
106 Isabella Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 995-3000
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
PLAINTIFF,
CIVIL DIVISION
NO. 06-4016
VS.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY,
COMPANY, ET AL.,
DEFENDANTS.
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER
AND NOW COME Defendants, Norfolk Southern Railway Company,
Consolidated Rail Corporation and American Premier Underwriter's Inc., by their
attorneys Burns, White & Hickton and Daniel J. Hampton, Esquire, files the following
Answer and New Matter to Plaintiffs Complaint:
ANSWER
1. Admitted as to residence.
2. Admitted.
3. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 3. All said
allegations are denied.
4. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Consolidated Rail
Corporation was a common carrier by rail between the periods April 1, 1976, and June 1,
1999. Prior to June 1, 1996, Consolidated Rail Corporation did not conduct any railroad
2
operations and did not conduct any business whatsoever in any areas other than the
Detroit Metropolitan area and the Northern New Jersey and Southern New Jersey-
Philadelphia areas.
5. The averments contained in Paragraph 5 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
denied. It is specifically denied that American Premier Underwriters Inc., existed prior to
October, 1978. It is further denied that American Premier Underwriters was ever a
common carrier engaged in interstate transportation. To the contrary, American Premier
Underwriters has never been a railroad nor engaged in interstate transportation, nor is it a
successor in interest and/or liability to any other entity.
6. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 6 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
7. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 7 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
8. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 8 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
9. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 9 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
10. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 10 of Plaintiff s Complaint
are specifically denied in their entirety.
3
11. The allegations contained in Paragraph 11 of Plaintiff s Complaint
constitute a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent a
response is deemed necessary, all of the allegations contained in Paragraph 11 of
Plaintiffs Complaint are specifically denied in their entirety.
12. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 12 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied in their entirety.
13. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 13 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
14. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 14 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
15. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 15 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
16. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 16 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
17. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 17 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied in their entirety.
18. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 18 of Plaintiffs Complaint,
through and including subparagraphs (a) through (aa) are specifically denied in their
entirety.
4
19. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 19 of Plaintiffs Complaint,
through and including subparagraphs (a) through (h) are specifically denied in their
entirety.
20. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 20 of Plaintiffs Complaint,
through and including subparagraphs (a) through (i) are specifically denied in their
entirety.
21. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 21 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied.
22. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 22 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied in their entirety.
NEW MATTER
By way of further response to the entirety of Plaintiff's Complaint, Defendants set
forth the following New Matter:
23. Defendants believe that all of Plaintiffs claims are barred by applicable
Statutes of Limitation. Accordingly, Defendants hereby plead all applicable Statutes of
Limitation as a complete bar to the entirety of Plaintiffs claims.
24. While denying that Plaintiff sustained injuries and/or damages as alleged,
if it would ultimately be proven that Plaintiff did sustain the damages and/or injuries in
the fashion alleged, Defendants believe and therefore aver that Plaintiffs own
contributory negligence may have and/or did contribute, in a substantial way, to the
happening and/or occurrence of the alleged injuries. Accordingly, Defendants plead
Plaintiffs contributory negligence in diminution of any award Plaintiff may ultimately
receive.
25. While denying that Plaintiff sustained the damages as alleged, Defendants
believe and therefore aver that any damages Plaintiff may ultimately be entitled to
recover from these Defendants may or are possibly limited in scope by the provisions of
the Federal Employer's Liability Act, and said recovery may be limited as to those
damages specifically set forth therein. Accordingly, in the event said Act is applicable,
all sections of Plaintiff's complaint seeking damages other than those provided for in the
Federal Employer's Liability Act fail to state a valid cause and/or causes of action upon
which relief may be granted and should be dismissed. Alternatively, all said sections of
Plaintiff's complaint should be stricken.
26. Plaintiff's Complaint, as to these Defendants, fails to state a valid cause
and/or causes of action upon which relief may be granted and should be dismissed.
27. Prior to the initiation of the within litigation, the Perm Central
Transportation Company did undergo proceedings in bankruptcy. Defendants, jointly
and severally, believe and therefore aver that Plaintiffs claims are barred, in their
entirety, as to Defendants, by reason of said bankruptcy and Defendants plead any and all
conditions and/or terms of said bankruptcy of the Penn Central Transportation Company,
including the Plan of Reorganization and the Confirmation Order entered therein, as a
complete bar to the entirety of Plaintiff's claims as to these answering Defendants.
Alternatively, Defendants plead a full discharge of all claims by reason of and/or
pursuant to the bankruptcy of the Penn Central Transportation Company.
28. Insofar as Plaintiff's Complaint attempts to assert, explicitly or implicitly,
that these answering Defendants are successors-in-interest to any other entity or entities,
all said averments are specifically denied in their entirety, and it is affirmatively averred
6
that American Premier Underwriter's Inc. is an individual entity, formed pursuant to
applicable bankruptcy act provisions, and is not, in any way, related to the Penn Central
Transportation Company and/or any other entity and accordingly, is not a successor-in-
interest to the liability of the Penn Central Transportation Company and/or any other
entity.
29. Accordingly, Plaintiff s Complaint fails to state a valid cause and/or
causes of action upon which relief may be granted and should be dismissed.
30. Insofar as applicable, Defendants plead any and all Statutes of Limitation
created by the Regional Rail Reorganization Act, as amended, and believe and therefore
aver that Plaintiff s claims are barred by the specific Statutes of Limitation as contained
in and established by the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973, as amended.
31. Defendants plead all provisions of the Regional Rail Reorganization Act
as a complete bar to the direct liability of any of these answering Defendants.
32. This Court lacks jurisdiction over the subject matter of the within
litigation, insofar as same applies to Defendants, and/or lacks jurisdiction over the
persons of American Premier Underwriter's Inc. and Consolidated Rail Corporation by
reason of the bankruptcy of the Penn Central Transportation Company and/or the
provisions of the Regional Rail Reorganization Act, as amended.
33. Consolidated Rail Corporation did not exist prior to April 1, 1976.
34. Accordingly, all sections of Plaintiffs Complaint seeking recovery for
incidents, which occurred prior to April 1, 1976, fail to state a valid cause and/or causes
of action upon which relief may be granted and should be dismissed.
35. Defendants would further show that Plaintiffs alleged injuries and
7
damages were caused, in whole or in part, by pre-existing conditions, or other
contributory or concurrent conditions or factors, including events occurring prior or
subsequent to the occurrence made the basis of Plaintiff's claim against Defendants.
36. Plaintiff has fully released all claims to these answering Defendants.
Defendants hereby plead all terms and conditions of a certain release agreement attached
hereto and marked as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein and plead a full release and
discharge of all claims pursuant thereto.
WHEREFORE, Defendants, Norfolk Southern Railway Company, Consolidated
Rail Corporation and American Financial Group, Inc., specifically deny that they are
indebted to any other party of record and demands that the Plaintiff's action be dismissed
and that they be permitted to recover the costs of defending this action as per the terms of
this, their Answer.
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED. Respectfully submitted,
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
By
4elani J. Hamp , Es uire
Attorney for D endants,
Norfolk Southern Railway Company
Consolidated Rail Corporation and
American Premier Underwriters, Inc.
8
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: PLAINTIFF
You are hereby notified to file a writer reply to the enclosed New Matter within twenty
(20) days of service hereof or a judgment maybe entered against you.
By
Attorney for
9
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on this 12th day of October 2006, a copy of the within
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER was served via first class mail, postage prepaid on
Counsel for Plaintiff:
Mark F. McKenna, Esquire
MCKENNA & ASSOCIATES
436 Blvd. of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
B L
Daniel J. Ham n, quire
Attorney for efendants
10
VERIFICATION
I verify that the averments of fact made in the
foregoing ANSWER AND NEW MATTER are true and correct based
upon my personal knowledge, information and belief. I
understand that the averments of fact in said document are
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904,
relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
L. Keith Lambert
Manager Occupational Claims
U t7 t`f /
i
Peirce CT 310
NS
RELEASE AGREEMENT
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS THAT I, Robert Harpster, on behalf of
r)Kn
myself, my heirs, personal representatives and assigns ("THE UNDERSIGNED"), this
day of Yff , D, enter into this RELEASE AGREEMENT with Norfolk
Southern Railway Company, CSX Transportation, Inc., Consolidated Rail Corporation,
American Financial Group, Inc., formerly known as American Premier Underwriters, Inc.,
formerly known as The Penn Central Corporation, Pennsylvania Truck Lines, Inc., Penn
Central Transportation Company, Pennsylvania Railroad, New York Central Railroad, Erie-
Lackawanna, Inc. and Lehigh Valley Railroad Company to the same extent as if expressly
named herein, their respective parents, subsidiaries and affiliated companies, their leased and
operated lines, and the respective predecessors, successors, assignees, lessors, officers,
directors, agents and employees of the aforesaid released parties, past and present, as well as
their heirs and legal representatives ("RELEASEE").
WHEREAS, a claim or action has been asserted by or on behalf of THE
UNDERSIGNED against RELEASEE alleging that THE UNDERSIGNED was exposed to
excessive and harmful repetitive motion, strain, vibration of any type or intensity and/or
cumulative trauma due to the equipment and methods with which he/she performed his/her
work for the RELEASEE, and that said excessive and harmful repetitive motion, strain,
vibration and/or cumulative trauma caused THE UNDERSIGNED to suffer from bilateral
carpal tunnel syndrome; (hereinafter referred to as "Repetitive Strain Injury"), including any
disorder of any type or origin or any condition, illness or injury resulting therefrom or relating
thereto.
WHEREAS, THE UNDERSIGNED and RELEASEE desire to enter into a full and
final settlement and discharge of all claims or actions against RELEASEE as described herein.
NOW, Ten Thousand Dollars ($10.000.00), paid to me by or on behalf of
RELEASEE, the sufficiency and receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, does hereby release
and forever discharge RELEASEE from all legal liability for personal injuries as set forth
herein, known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, including claims, causes of action, actions,
verdicts, judgments, or awards of money damages, costs, fees, and expenses incurred, and
demands for monetary compensation of any nature, which THE UNDERSIGNED has or claims
1
to be entitled by reason of his/her alleged Repetitive Strain Injury, its progression and/or
consequences, any future damages, general or special, that THE UNDERSIGNED may incur
in an attempt to alleviate or cure his/her alleged Repetitive Strain Injury, including surgery or
surgeries, as well as correction of any conditions relating to his/her Repetitive Strain Injury,
and any increased risk of contracting any physical disorder related thereto, as set forth in
Docket Number 96-C-163G, filed in Circuit Court, Hancock County, WV, Robert
Harpster vs. Consolidated Rail Corporation, Defendant, which action THE
UNDERSIGNED agrees shall be dismissed with prejudice.
THE UNDERSIGNED acknowledges that his/her Repetitive Strain Injury may be
permanent and/or may naturally progress and/or may become permanently disabling in the
future; recovery therefrom is uncertain; and future medical treatment, including surgery, may
be necessary in an attempt to alleviate or treat said Repetitive Strain Injury. By entering into
this Release Agreement, THE UNDERSIGNED acknowledges that no representations about the
nature and extent of his present or future condition, disabilities or damages made by any
physician, attorney or agent of those hereby released, nor any representations regarding the
nature and extent of legal liability of those hereby released, have induced him to make this
settlement; that he relies wholly upon his own judgment, belief, and knowledge of the nature
and extent of his injuries, including the permanency and the possibility of progression of such
injuries; and that the possible future effects of THE UNDERSIGNED'S Repetitive Strain Injury
are specifically bargained for herein, included, and released in exchange for the payment of
consideration stated herein.
Other provisions of this RELEASE AGREEMENT notwithstanding, this RELEASE
AGREEMENT is not intended to and does not release any claim THE UNDERSIGNED may
have in the future for a solely new and distinct railroad employment related injury.
It is further understood and agreed that THE UNDERSIGNED agrees to indemnify and
hold harmless RELEASEE of and from any and all liability, actions, judgments, costs,
expenses and counsel fees arising from or in any way connected with subrogation claims or
liens for any compensation or medical payments due or claimed to be due or paid under any
law (state or federal), regulation or contract, and from all losses, claims, liabilities, actions,
causes of action, judgments, verdicts, awards, demands, costs, fees or expenses of whatsoever
kind or nature arising as a result of, or pertaining in any way to the Repetitive Strain Injury
released herein.
2
It is understood and agreed that any issue concerning the interpretation of this
RELEASE AGREEMENT or its effect upon the parties hereto shall be governed by federal
law.
THE UNDERSIGNED further specifically agrees to the introduction into evidence of
this RELEASE AGREEMENT at any trial, hearing, or inquiry conducted subsequent to the
date of execution hereof.
THE UNDERSIGNED understands, agrees, and acknowledges that the payment
referred to herein is in compromise of a disputed claim and shall not be construed as an
admission of liability on the part of RELEASEE, since liability is expressly denied.
THE UNDERSIGNED further acknowledges and agrees that certain "liens" are owed
and outstanding, that the sums hereinafter identified, which may not be final and are subject to
change, will be subtracted from the total amount paid as consideration for this RELEASE
AGREEMENT as follows:
Gross Settlement Amount:
$10.000.00
Less:
(1) Railroad Retirement Board:
(2) Supplemental Sickness Benefits:
Net Settlement Amount: $ 10.000.00
Draft No.
It is further understood and agreed that this is the complete RELEASE AGREEMENT,
and that there are no written or oral understandings or agreements, directly or indirectly
connected with this RELEASE AGREEMENT that are not incorporated herein.
THE UNDERSIGNED declares that he/she has executed this RELEASE
AGREEMENT upon the advice and approval of his/her counsel, Robert Peirce, Esquire, of
the firm Peirce, Raimond, Osterhout, Wade, Carlson & Coulter, that he/she knows and
understands the contents hereof and signs the same as his/her own free act with full knowledge
that the effect hereof shall be such as to extinguish, and he/she hereby declares extinguished,
now and forever, any and all claims described in this RELEASE AGREEMENT.
THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES THAT HE/SHE HAS READ
THIS ENTIRE RELEASE AGREEMENT AND UNDERSTANDS ITS TERMS, AND THAT
BY SIGNING THIS RELEASE AGREEMENT HAS RELEASED HIS/HER RIGHTS
REFERENCED HEREIN AGAINST RELEASEE AND ITS INSURERS.
3
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set forth my hand and seal this day
of Qygm intending to be legally bound hereby.
WITNESSES TO SIGNATURE:
Name
Address
FILE NO. HARPSR1126960001
nslcsx 8-99
a?? U (SEAL)
Robert Harpster
SS# l&U 3 6 3 (
Attorney for Robert / arpster
Q?m LcaA7&to-,-Q?
POA ffl
Address
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SHERIFF'S RETURN - OUT OF COUNTY
CASE NO:-2006-04016 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
HARPSTER ROBERT
VS
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY CO
R. Thomas Kline
, Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who being
duly sworn according to law, says, that he made a diligent search and
and inquiry for the within named DEFENDANT , to wit:
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY
but was unable to locate Them in his bailiwick. He therefore
deputized the sheriff of PHILADELPHIA
County, Pennsylvania, to
serve the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE
On October
2006 , this office was in receipt of the
attached return from PHILADELPHIA
Sheriff's Costs: So answer
Docketing 18.00
Out of County 9.00
Surcharge 10.00 R Thomas line
Postage 5.64 Sheriff of Cumberland County
Dep Philadelphia 172.00
214.64 ? /o??b?U`
10/03/2006
MCKENNA & ASSOCIATES
Sworn and subscribe to before me
this day of
A. D.
SHERIFF'S RETURN - OUT OF COUNTY
CASE NO:`2006-04016 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
HARPSTER ROBERT
VS
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY CO
R. Thomas Kline
Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who being
duly sworn according to law, says, that he made a diligent search and
and inquiry for the within named DEFENDANT
CONSOLIDTED RAIL CORPORATION
but was unable to locate Them
to wit:
in his bailiwick. He therefore
deputized the sheriff of PHILADELPHIA
serve the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE
County, Pennsylvania, to
On October 3rd , 2006 , this office was in receipt of the
attached return from PHILADELPHIA
Sheriff's Costs: So ans
Docketing 6.00
Out of County .00 l
Surcharge 10.00 Thomas Kline
.00 Sheriff of Cumberland County
00
16.00 Jv /1410 -
10/03/2006
MCKENNA & ASSOCIATES
Sworn and subscribe to before me
this day of
A. D.
SHERIFF'S RETURN - OUT OF COUNTY
CASE NO:' 2006-04016 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
HARPSTER ROBERT
VS
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY CO
R. Thomas Kline
Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who being
duly sworn according to law, says, that he made a diligent search and
and inquiry for the within named DEFENDANT to wit:
AMERICAN PREMIER UNDERWRITERS INC FKA THE PENN CENTRAL CORP
but was unable to locate Them in his bailiwick. He therefore
deputized the sheriff of PHILADELPHIA
serve the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE
County, Pennsylvania, to
On October 3rd , 2006 , this office was in receipt of the
attached return from PHILADELPHIA
Sheriff's Costs: So answe
Docketing 6.00
Out of County .00
Surcharge 10.00 R Thomas K ine
.00 Sheriff of Cumberland County
.00
16.00 ? 101,v106 (,,
10/03/2006
MCKENNA & ASSOCIATES
Sworn and subscribe to before me
this day of
A. D.
In The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Robert Harpster
VS.
Norfolk Southern Railway Company et al
SERVE: Norfolk Southern Railway Canpany No. 06-4016 civil
, occ)(o
Now, , I, SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA, do
hereby deputize the Sheriff of Philadelphia
deputation being made at the request and risk of the Plaintiff.
County to execute this Writ, this
Sheriff of Cumberland County, PA
Affidavit of Service
Now, 20, at v f • o'clock a-, M. served the
within am,4-
upon
at Ci'I,
-1210
by handing to
a copy of the original I lr?_Uh? b1 ,caJ-
and made known to L?,yl the contents thereof.
So answers,
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
NOTARIAL. SEAL.
MELISSA H. KAPLAN, Notary Public .
City of Phil=adelphia. Phila. County
„,-MY-Cay1rrii lion Expires March 29, 2008
Sworn and subscrib before
me this day ooat ,,
a,
1 o-r-q
?-ennui
fC 1?i ; ?? County, PA
VVW
COSTS
SERVICE $
0MILEAGE
AFFIDAVIT
In The Curt of Common ,leas of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Robert Harpster
vs.
Norfolk Southern Railway Company et al
SERVE: Consolidated Rail Corporation No. 06-4016 civil
Now, , I, SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA, do
hereby deputize the Sheriff of
Philadelphia County to execute this Writ, this
deputation being made at the request and risk of the Plaintiff.
aCAc
Vt V ! ?r
Affidavit 4 Service
Nowat 6.00 o'clock d - served e
within _r Un
upon l? 1
at
by handing to
a
and made known to
Sheriff of Cumberland County, PA
not 0
copy of the original
i s1w-ed--
the contents thereof.
So answers,
COMMONWEALTH OF PFNNS nNANIA
NOTARIAL A!'
MELISSA H. KA.P?_AN, Notary Public
City of Philadelphia, Phila. County
Wtimmission Expires March 29, 2008
Sworn and subscribe before
me this 2kStday o
V MI G1-
.moo {/ County, PA
?ro eQ v
COSTS
SERVICE $
MILEAGE
AFFIDAVIT
$
r.
In The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Robert Harpster
VS.
Norfolk Southern Railway Company et al
SERVE: American Premier Underwriters Inc No. 06-4016 civil
Std } C, a00(-
Now, - 04; Q-T-2906 , I, SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA, do
hereby deputize the Sheriff of
Philadelphia
deputation being made at the request and risk of the Plaintiff.
County to execute this Writ, this
Sheriff of Cumberland County, PA
Affidavit of Service
Now, i , 20 0, at 'q Wo'clock d- M. served the
within C1z. ?l aL'vve
upon tn4O 4/i' C61* 1 `rrtr .(-w
at
"5T, 5k (Uo
by handing to6ahqAf 5D v?' y l--
v
a C copy of the original 16± l(_Q_n?
and made known to the contents thereof.
So answers,
OMMONWEA'-'_TFFi OF PENNSYLVANIA
NOTARIAL SEAL
MELISSA F1 KAPLAN, Notary Public
Cite n` ?'hi;del?f,?, Phila County
M GQfitiFi100ri fry irt? MArch 29,2008
Sworn and subscribe before
me this' day o , 200.0
-6Fof County, PA
?70 V &-
COSTS
SERVICE $
MILEAGE
AFFIDAVIT
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
Plaintiff,
v.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER's INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATIONCOMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD,
NEW YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD,
LEHIGH VALLEY RAILROAD
COMPANY
CIVIL ACTION
NO.: 06-4016 Civil Term
TYPE OF PLEADING:
PLAINTIFF'S REPLY TO NEW MATTER
FILED ON BEHALF OF:
PLAINTIFF, ROBERT HARPSTER
COUNSEL OF RECORD FOR THIS
PARTY:
Defendants
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
PA I.D. # 30297
McKENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
436 Boulevard of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
(412) 471-6226
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
Plaintiff,
vs.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY,
Individually and as a Successor-in-interest-or-liability
to any other railroad, including
CONSOLIDATED RAIL CORPORATION; and
AMERICAN PREMIER UNDERWRITER's INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD,
NEW YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD,
LEHIGH VALLEY RAILROAD
COMPANY
Defendants.
CIVIL ACTION
No. 06-4016-Civil Term
PLAINTIFF'S REPLY TO NEW MATTER
COMES NOW, the Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, by counsel, and files the following
Reply to New Matter and avers as follows:
RESPONSE TO NEW MATTER
23. Paragraph 23, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
24. Paragraph 24, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
25. Paragraph 25, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
26. Paragraph 26, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
27. Paragraph 27, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
28. Paragraph 28, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
29. Paragraph 29, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
30. Paragraph 30, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
31. Paragraph 31, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
32. Paragraph 32, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
33. Paragraph 33, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
34. Paragraph 34, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
35. Paragraph 35, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
36. Paragraph 36, is a conclusion of law which no responsive pleading is required.
To the extent that a responsive pleading is required, said allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff, ROBERT HARPSTER, respectfully requests that judgment be
entered in favor of the Plaintiff and against the Defendants, together with costs and
disbursements of this action in an amount in excess of compulsory arbitration limits.
, P.C.
'. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
for Plaintiff
VERIFICATION
I, Mark F. McKenna, Esquire, counsel for Plaintiff herein, deposes and says that I am
counsel for Plaintiff in this matter; that I am authorized to make this Verification on behalf of
Plaintiff; that the facts set forth in the foregoing Reply to New Matter are true and correct, not
of my own knowledge, but from information supplied to me by Plaintiff, that the purposes of this
Verification are to expedite the litigation; and that a Verification by Plaintiff will be furnished if
requested. This statement is made subject to the penalties of 18Pa.C.S. Section 4904 relating to
unsworn falsification to authorities.
Date:
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on the _2Yl-h of October, 2007, a copy of the foregoing Plaintiff's
Reply to New Matter was mailed, by United States Mail, postage paid, to Daniel J. Hampton,
Esquire, Burns, White & Hickton, Four Northshore Center, 106 Isabella Street, Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania 15212.
McKENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: NO-rk r' k )C
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQ IRE
taJ :-G
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
CIVIL ACTION
PLAINTIFF,
vs.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S, INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
Individually and/or as Successor-in-
interest-or-liability to any other entity,
PENN CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION
COMPANY, PENNSYLVANIA
RAILROAD, NEW YORK CENTRAL ;
RAILROAD, LEHIGH VALLEY,
yvI?
NO: 06-3424- CIVIL TERM
PRAECIPE FOR APPEARANCE
DEFENDANTS.
Filed on behalf of Defendants,
Consolidated Rail Corporation.
American Premier Underwriters, Inc.
Norfolk Southern Railway Company
Counsel of Record for these Parties:
Nicole E. Bazzy, Esquire
Pa. ID# 89030
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
Firm # 828
Four Northshore Center
106 Isabella Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 995-3000
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
PLAINTIFF,
VS.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY, )
Individually and as a Successor-in-)
Interest-or-liability to any other )
Railroad, including )
CONSOLIDATED RAIL CORPORATION; AND )
AMERICAN PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S INC.)
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL )
CENTRAL CORPORATION, Individually )
and/or as Successor-in-interest-or-)
liability to any other entity, PENN)
CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION COMPANY, )
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW YORK )
CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH VALLEY )
DEFENDANTS,
CIVIL DIVISION
yo1?
NO : 0 6 - 3`,6n
PRAECIPE FOR
APPEARANCE
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE FOR APPEARANCE
TO: Curtis R. Long - Prothonotary
Kindly enter my Appearance on behalf of Defendants,
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY, CONSOLIDATED RAIL
CORPORATION AND AMERICAN PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S INC., with
reference to the above-captioned matter.
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
BY X-0,? ,A
Nicole E. Bazzy, EW4
Pa. ID#89030
Attorney for Defendants,
Norfolk Southern Railway
Company, Consolidated Rail
Corporation and American
Premier Underwriters, Inc.
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on this 14th day of November
2007, a copy of the within PRAECIPE FOR APPEARANCE was
served on all counsel of record, via first class mail
postage prepaid:
Mark F. McKenna, Esquire
MCKENNA & ASSOCIATES
436 Blvd. of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
By I_
N cole E. Bazzy, Esq i e
Attorney for Defendants
a
?? ;?'; ?
?cr' ? n1
?Q
? ? ?
?
?
? .
-
?,?"
,
c?
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER, CIVIL ACTION
PLAINTIFF,
VS.
NO: 06-3 44- CIVIL TERM
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor-in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN ANSWER AND NEW MATTER
PREMIER UNDERWRITER'S, INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
Individually and/or as Successor-in-
interest-or-liability to any other entity,
PENN CENTRAL TRANSPORTATION
COMPANY, PENNSYLVANIA
RAILROAD, NEW YORK CENTRAL
RAILROAD, LEHIGH VALLEY,
DEFENDANTS
Filed on behalf of Defendants,
Consolidated Rail Corporation.
American Premier Underwriters, Inc.
Norfolk Southern Railway Company
Counsel of Record for these Parties:
Nicole E. Bazzy, Esquire
Pa. ID# 89030
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
Firm # 828
Four Northshore Center
106 Isabella Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 995-3000
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
PLAINTIFF,
CIVIL DIVISION
/6
NO. 06-3?
VS.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY,
COMPANY, ET AL.,
DEFENDANTS.
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER
AND NOW COME Defendants, Norfolk Southern Railway Company,
Consolidated Rail Corporation and American Premier Underwriter's Inc., by their
attorneys Burns, White & Hickton and Nicole E. Bazzy, Esquire, files the following
Answer and New Matter to Plaintiffs Complaint:
ANSWER
1. Admitted as to residence.
2. Admitted.
3. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 3. All said
allegations are denied.
4. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Consolidated Rail
Corporation was a common carrier by rail between the periods April 1, 1976, and June 1,
1999. Prior to June 1, 1996, Consolidated Rail Corporation did not conduct any railroad
2
operations in any areas other than the Detroit Metropolitan area and the Northern New
Jersey and Southern New Jersey-Philadelphia areas.
5. The averments contained in Paragraph 5 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
denied. It is specifically denied that American Premier Underwriters Inc., existed prior to
October, 1978. It is further denied that American Premier Underwriters was ever a
common carrier engaged in interstate transportation. To the contrary, American Premier
Underwriters has never been a railroad nor engaged in interstate transportation, nor is it a
successor in interest and/or liability to any other entity.
6. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 6 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
7. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 7 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
8. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 8 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
9. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 9 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
10. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 10 of Plaintiff's Complaint
are specifically denied in their entirety.
3
11. The allegations contained in Paragraph 11 of Plaintiff's Complaint
constitute a conclusion of law to which no response is necessary. To the extent a
response is deemed necessary, all of the allegations contained in Paragraph 11 of
Plaintiff's Complaint are specifically denied in their entirety.
12. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 12 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied in their entirety.
13. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 13 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
14. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 14 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
15. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 15 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
16. Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a
belief as to the truth or falsity of the allegations contained in Paragraph 16 of Plaintiffs
Complaint. All said allegations are denied.
17. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 17 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied in their entirety.
18. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 18 of Plaintiffs Complaint,
through and including subparagraphs (a) through (aa) are specifically denied in their
entirety.
4
19. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 19 of Plaintiffs Complaint,
through and including subparagraphs (a) through (h) are specifically denied in their
entirety.
20. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 20 of Plaintiffs Complaint,
through and including subparagraphs (a) through (i) are specifically denied in their
entirety.
21. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 21 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied.
22. All of the allegations contained in Paragraph 22 of Plaintiffs Complaint
are denied in their entirety.
NEW MATTER
By way of further response to the entirety of Plaintiff's Complaint, Defendants set
forth the following New Matter:
23. Defendants believe that all of Plaintiffs claims are barred by applicable
Statutes of Limitation. Accordingly, Defendants hereby plead all applicable Statutes of
Limitation as a complete bar to the entirety of Plaintiffs claims.
24. While denying that Plaintiff sustained injuries and/or damages as alleged,
if it would ultimately be proven that Plaintiff did sustain the damages and/or injuries in
the fashion alleged, Defendants believe and therefore aver that Plaintiffs own
contributory negligence may have and/or did contribute, in a substantial way, to the
happening and/or occurrence of the alleged injuries. Accordingly, Defendants plead
Plaintiffs contributory negligence in diminution of any award Plaintiff may ultimately
receive.
5
25. While denying that Plaintiff sustained the damages as alleged, Defendants
believe and therefore aver that any damages Plaintiff may ultimately be entitled to
recover from these Defendants may or are possibly limited in scope by the provisions of
the Federal Employer's Liability Act, and said recovery may be limited as to those
damages specifically set forth therein. Accordingly, in the event said Act is applicable,
all sections of Plaintiff's complaint seeking damages other than those provided for in the
Federal Employer's Liability Act fail to state a valid cause and/or causes of action upon
which relief may be granted and should be dismissed. Alternatively, all said sections of
Plaintiff's complaint should be stricken.
26. Plaintiff's Complaint, as to these Defendants, fails to state a valid cause
and/or causes of action upon which relief may be granted and should be dismissed.
27. Prior to the initiation of the within litigation, the Penn Central
Transportation Company did undergo proceedings in bankruptcy. Defendants, jointly
and severally, believe and therefore aver that Plaintiffs claims are barred, in their
entirety, as to Defendants, by reason of said bankruptcy and Defendants plead any and all
conditions and/or terms of said bankruptcy of the Penn Central Transportation Company,
including the Plan of Reorganization and the Confirmation Order entered therein, as a
complete bar to the entirety of Plaintiff's claims as to these answering Defendants.
Alternatively, Defendants plead a full discharge of all claims by reason of and/or
pursuant to the bankruptcy of the Penn Central Transportation Company.
28. Insofar as Plaintiff's Complaint attempts to assert, explicitly or implicitly,
that these answering Defendants are successors-in-interest to any other entity or entities,
all said averments are specifically denied in their entirety, and it is affirmatively averred
6
that American Premier Underwriter's Inc. is an individual entity, formed pursuant to
applicable bankruptcy act provisions, and is not, in any way, related to the Penn Central
Transportation Company and/or any other entity and accordingly, is not a successor-in-
interest to the liability of the Penn Central Transportation Company and/or any other
entity.
29. It is specifically denied that Norfolk Southern Railway Company is a
successor-in-interest-or-liability to Consolidated Rail Corporation.
30. Accordingly, Plaintiff s Complaint fails to state a valid cause and/or
causes of action upon which relief may be granted and should be dismissed.
31. Insofar as applicable, Defendants plead any and all Statutes of Limitation
created by the Regional Rail Reorganization Act, as amended, and believe and therefore
aver that Plaintiff s claims are barred by the specific Statutes of Limitation as contained
in and established by the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973, as amended.
32. Defendants plead all provisions of the Regional Rail Reorganization Act
as a complete bar to the direct liability of any of these answering Defendants.
33. This Court lacks jurisdiction over the subject matter of the within
litigation, insofar as same applies to Defendants, and/or lacks jurisdiction over the
persons of American Premier Underwriter's Inc. and Consolidated Rail Corporation by
reason of the bankruptcy of the Penn Central Transportation Company and/or the
provisions of the Regional Rail Reorganization Act, as amended.
34. Consolidated Rail Corporation did not exist prior to April 1, 1976.
7
35. Accordingly, all sections of Plaintiff's Complaint seeking recovery for
incidents, which occurred prior to April 1, 1976, fail to state a valid cause and/or causes
of action upon which relief may be granted and should be dismissed.
36. Defendants would further show that Plaintiff's alleged injuries and
damages were caused, in whole or in part, by pre-existing conditions, or other
contributory or concurrent conditions or factors, including events occurring prior or
subsequent to the occurrence made the basis of Plaintiff's claim against Defendants.
37. Plaintiff has fully released all claims to these answering Defendants.
Defendants hereby plead all terms and conditions of a certain release agreement attached
hereto and marked as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein and plead a full release and
discharge of all claims pursuant thereto.
WHEREFORE, Defendants, Norfolk Southern Railway Company, Consolidated
Rail Corporation and American Premier Underwriter's Inc., specifically deny that they
are indebted to any other party of record and demands that the Plaintiff's action be
dismissed and that they be permitted to recover the costs of defending this action as per
the terms of this, their Answer.
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED. Respectfully submitted,
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
By
Nicole E. Bazzy, Esquire P61 A C?/7
Attorney for Defendants,
Norfolk Southern Railway Company
Consolidated Rail Corporation and
American Premier Underwriters, Inc.
8
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: PLAINTIFF
You are hereby notified to file a written reply to the enclosed New Matter within twenty
(20) days of service hereof or a judgment maybe entered against you.
By
icole E. Bazzy, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants
9
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on this 14th day of November 2007, a copy of the within
ANSWER AND NEW MATTER was served via first class mail, postage prepaid on
Counsel for Plaintiff:
Mark F. McKenna, Esquire
MCKENNA & ASSOCIATES
436 Blvd. of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
BURNS, WHITE & HICKTON
By 2L??Z /-
Nicole E. Bazzy, Esquire
Attorney for Defendants
10
VERIFICATION
I verify that the averments of fact made in the
foregoing ANSWER AND NEW MATTER are true and correct based
upon my personal knowledge, information and belief. I
understand that the averments of fact in said document are
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904,
relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
L. Keit La ert
Manager, Occupational Claims
v ri rr
Peirce CT 310
NS
RELEASE AGREEMENT
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS THAT I, Robert Harpster, on behalf of
myself, my heirs, personal representatives and assigns ("THE UNDERSIGNED"), this
day of MOW, , enter into this RELEASE AGREEMENT with Norfolk
Southern Railway Company, CSX Transportation, Inc., Consolidated Rail Corporation,
American Financial Group, Inc., formerly known as American Premier Underwriters, Inc.,
formerly known as The Penn Central Corporation, Pennsylvania Truck Lines, Inc., Penn
Central Transportation Company, Pennsylvania Railroad, New York Central Railroad, Erie-
Lackawanna, Inc. and Lehigh Valley Railroad Company to the same extent as if expressly
named herein, their respective parents, subsidiaries and affiliated companies, their leased and
operated lines, and the respective predecessors, successors, assignees, lessors, officers,
directors, agents and employees of the aforesaid released parties, past and present, as well as
their heirs and legal representatives ("RELEASEE").
WHEREAS, a claim or action has been asserted by or on behalf of THE
UNDERSIGNED against RELEASEE alleging that THE UNDERSIGNED was exposed to
excessive and harmful repetitive motion, strain, vibration of any type or intensity and/or
cumulative trauma due to the equipment and methods with which he/she performed his/her
work for the RELEASEE, and that said excessive and harmful repetitive motion, strain,
vibration and/or cumulative trauma caused THE UNDERSIGNED to suffer from bilateral
carpal tunnel syndrome; (hereinafter referred to as "Repetitive Strain Injury"), including any
disorder of any type or origin or any condition, illness or injury resulting therefrom or relating
thereto.
WHEREAS, THE UNDERSIGNED and RELEASEE desire to enter into a full and
final settlement and discharge of all claims or actions against RELEASEE as described herein.
NOW, Ten Thousand Dollars ($10.000.00), paid to me by or on behalf of
RELEASEE, the sufficiency and receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, does hereby release
and forever discharge RELEASEE from all legal liability for personal injuries as set forth
herein, known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, including claims, causes of action, actions,
verdicts, judgments, or awards of money damages, costs, fees, and expenses incurred, and
demands for monetary compensation of any nature, which THE UNDERSIGNED has or claims
1
to be entitled by reason of his/her alleged Repetitive Strain Injury, its progression and/or
consequences, any future damages, general or special, that THE UNDERSIGNED may incur
in an attempt to alleviate or cure his/her alleged Repetitive Strain Injury, including surgery or
surgeries, as well as correction of any conditions relating to his/her Repetitive Strain Injury,
and any increased risk of contracting any physical disorder related thereto, as set forth in
Docket Number 96-C-163G, filed in Circuit Court, Hancock County, WV, Robert
Harpster vs. Consolidated Rail Corporation, Defendant, which action THE
UNDERSIGNED agrees shall be dismissed with prejudice.
THE UNDERSIGNED acknowledges that his/her Repetitive Strain Injury may be
permanent and/or may naturally progress and/or may become permanently disabling in the
future; recovery therefrom is uncertain; and future medical treatment, including surgery, may
be necessary in an attempt to alleviate or treat said Repetitive Strain Injury. By entering into
this Release Agreement, THE UNDERSIGNED acknowledges that no representations about the
nature and extent of his present or future condition, disabilities or damages made by any
physician, attorney or agent of those hereby released, nor any representations regarding the
nature and extent of legal liability of those hereby released, have induced him to make this
settlement; that he relies wholly upon his own judgment, belief, and knowledge of the nature
and extent of his injuries, including the permanency and the possibility of progression of such
injuries; and that the possible future effects of THE UNDERSIGNED'S Repetitive Strain Injury
are specifically bargained for herein, included, and released in exchange for the payment of
consideration stated herein.
Other provisions of this RELEASE AGREEMENT notwithstanding, this RELEASE
AGREEMENT is not intended to and does not release any claim THE UNDERSIGNED may
have in the future for a solely new and distinct railroad employment related injury.
It is further understood and agreed that THE UNDERSIGNED agrees to indemnify and
hold harmless RELEASEE of and from any and all liability, actions, judgments, costs,
expenses and counsel fees arising from or in any way connected with subrogation claims or
liens for any compensation or medical payments due or claimed to be due or paid under any
law (state or federal), regulation or contract, and from all losses, claims, liabilities, actions,
causes of action, judgments, verdicts, awards, demands, costs, fees or expenses of whatsoever
kind or nature arising as a result of, or pertaining in any way to the Repetitive Strain Injury
released herein.
2
It is understood and agreed that any issue concerning the interpretation of this
RELEASE AGREEMENT or its effect upon the parties hereto shall be governed by federal
law.
THE UNDERSIGNED further specifically agrees to the introduction into evidence of
this RELEASE AGREEMENT at any trial, hearing, or inquiry conducted subsequent to the
date of execution hereof.
THE UNDERSIGNED understands, agrees, and acknowledges that the payment
referred to herein is in compromise of a disputed claim and shall not be construed as an
admission of liability on the part of RELEASEE, since liability is expressly denied.
THE UNDERSIGNED further acknowledges and agrees that certain "liens" are owed
and outstanding, that the sums hereinafter identified, which may not be final and are subject to
change, will be subtracted from the total amount paid as consideration for this RELEASE
AGREEMENT as follows:
Gross Settlement Amount:
$ 10.000.00
Less:
(1) Railroad Retirement Board:
(2) Supplemental Sickness Benefits:
Net Settlement Amount: $ 10.000.00
Draft No.
It is further understood and agreed that this is the complete RELEASE AGREEMENT,
and that there are no written or oral understandings or agreements, directly or indirectly
connected with this RELEASE AGREEMENT that are not incorporated herein.
THE UNDERSIGNED declares that he/she has executed this RELEASE
AGREEMENT upon the advice and approval of his/her counsel, Robert Peirce, Esquire, of
the firm Peirce, Raimond, Osterhout, Wade, Carlson & Coulter, that he/she knows and
understands the contents hereof and signs the same as his/her own free act with full knowledge
that the effect hereof shall be such as to extinguish, and he/she hereby declares extinguished,
now and forever, any and all claims described in this RELEASE AGREEMENT.
THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES THAT HE/SHE HAS READ
THIS ENTIRE RELEASE AGREEMENT AND UNDERSTANDS ITS TERMS, AND THAT
BY SIGNING THIS RELEASE AGREEMENT HAS RELEASED HIS/HER RIGHTS
REFERENCED HEREIN AGAINST RELEASEE AND ITS INSURERS.
3
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set forth my hand and seal this day
womw P"-,
of , intending to be legally bound hereby.
X-J- U "j,0tSEAL)
Robert Harpster
SSA / Iv U 6 3 ?__
WITNESSES TO SIGNATURE:
Name
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER,
Plaintiff,
vs.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor- in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER's INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY RAILROAD COMPANY,
Defendant,
CIVIL DIVISION
NO. 06-4016
TYPE OF PLEADING:
PRAECIPE TO SETTLE AND
DISCONTINUE
FILED ON BEHALF OF:
PLAINTIFF, ROBERT HARPSTER
COUNSEL OF RECORD FOR THIS
PARTY:
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
PA ID #30927
MCK.ENNA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
436 Boulevard of the Allies
Suite 500
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1314
(412) 471-6226
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT HARPSTER, CIVIL DIVISION
Plaintiff, NO. 06-4016
vs.
NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY
COMPANY, Individually and as a
Successor- in-interest-or-liability to any
other railroad, including CONSOLIDATED
RAIL CORPORATION; and AMERICAN
PREMIER UNDERWRITER's INC.,
formally known as THE PENN CENTRAL
TRANSPORTATION COMPANY,
PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD, NEW
YORK CENTRAL RAILROAD, LEHIGH
VALLEY RAILROAD COMPANY,
Defendant,
PRAECIPE TO SETTLE AND DISCONTINUE
TO PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly settle and discontinue the above-captioned matter and mark the docket
accordingly.
Respectfully submitted,
By:
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Plaintiff
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that a copy of the foregoing Praecipe to Settle and
Discontinue was sent by ordinary U.S. first class mail, postage prepaid, to the following on this 0
day of September, 2010:
Nicole E. Bazzy
BURNS WHITE
Four Northshore Center
106 Isabella Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
B
MARK F. McKENNA, ESQUIRE
Attorney for Plaintiff