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YOST & TRETTA
BY: RICHARD W. YOST
IDENTIFICATION NO. 37941
Four Penn Cenler Plaza
Suile 1401
1600 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(21S) 972-6600
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ATIORNEY FOR: Plaintiff,
Fint Presbyterian Chun;h or
Carlisle
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CARLISLE
2A North Hanover Street
carlisle, PA 17013
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
:
v.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
323 East Louther Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
and
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
2000 West Marshall Drive
Grand Prairie, Texas 7505l
.
.
.
.
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:
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.
.
NO.
COMPLAINT
Plaintiff, First presbyterian Church of Carlisle, by and through
its counsel, Yost & Tretta, hereby files the within complaint and in
support thereof, avers as follows:
1. Plaintiff, First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle, is a non-
profit, religious entity, organized and existing under the laws of the
Commonwealth of pennsylvania, with its premises located at 2A North
Hanover street, Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013.
2. Defendant, Richard Randolph cook, is an adult individual and
citizen of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, residing at 323 East
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA. SUITE 1401 . teoo JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
Louther street, Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013.
3. Defendant, Pcly-Trucking, Inc., is a corporation organized
and existing under the laws of the state of Texas, with a business
address of 2000 West Marshall Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas 75051.
4. At all times relevant hereto, defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc.,
conducted business throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
including Cumberland County.
5. At all times relevant hereto, defendant, Richard Randolph
Cook, was employed by defendant, POly-Trucking, Inc., and acted as the
agent, servant and/or workman of Poly-Trucking, Inc.
6. On or about september 7, 1993, at approximately 5:00 p.m.,
defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, operated a 1993 Freightliner tractor,
owned by defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc., in an easterly direction on
West High street, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
7. As said Defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, executed a left
turn from West High street onto North Hanover street, he crossed into
the southbound lane of North Hanover Street and struck a Chevrolet
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Blazer, which was operated by Mark Alan Thies.
8. After the defendants I vehicle collided with the vehicle
driven by Thies, it continued to travel onto the plaintiff's property,
knocked down a wrought iron fence and shrubbery, collided with a tree
and came to rest against the First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle.
9. As a result of the defendants' conduct, the plaintiff has
sustained damage to its real and personal property not in excess of
$25,000.00, as well as related losses in the form of loss of use and
inconvenience for which defendants, their agents, servants and/or
-2-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA. SUITE 1401 . UlOO JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA IglOO
workmen, are solely liable.
COUNT I - NEGLIGBNCB
PLAINTIFF v. DEFENDANT. RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
10. Plaintiff hereby incorporates by reference the allegations
set forth in paragraphs one through nine of this complaint as if same
were fully set forth at length herein.
11. The motor vehicle accident and resultant damages referred to
above were caused by the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of
defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his agents, servants and/or workmen,
in:
(a) operating his vehicle at high and excessive rates of
speed which were in violation of the laws and statutes
of Pennsylvania;
(b) failing to have his vehicle under proper and adequate
control;
(c) failing to execute and complete a proper left turn;
(d) crossing the center line into opposing traffic;
(e) failing to maintain an assured clear distance between
his vehicle and those about his;
(f) driving too fast for the conditions then and there
present, including but not limited to weather, road and
traffic conditions, and the respective sizes of the
vehicles;
(g) being inattentive and failing to maintain a careful,
cautious and prudent lookout upon the public highways;
(h) operating his vehicle without due regard for the rights
and safety of the plaintiff;
(i) driving his vehicle without proper and adequate
training;
(j) operating his vehicle at a speed in excess of that which
would permit a driver to execute and complete a proper
left turn;
-3-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401 . 1000 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA. PA \;103
(k) operating his vehicle while under the influence of
alcohol and/or illegal drugs;
(l) failing to exercise that reasonable degree of care,
skill and foresight in accordance with the standards of
licensed drivers in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania;
and
(m) otherwise failing to exercise due care and caution under
the circumstances.
12. The aforementioned negligence, carelessness and recklessness
of defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his agents, servants and/or
workmen, caused substantial and severe damage to the plaintiff's real
and personal property, as well as the loss of use of same, and
therefore, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, is liable to the plaintiff
for the damages sustained in the loss.
13. As a direct and proximate cause of the negligence,
carelessness and recklessness of defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his
agents, servants and/or workmen, plaintiff has sustained damage to its
real and personal property not in excess of $25,000.00, along with
related losses in the form of loss of use and inconvenience.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff, First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle,
demands that judgment be entered in its favor and against defendant,
Richard Randolph Cook, in an amount not in excess of $25,000.00,
together with interest, costs and delay damages.
COUNT II - PUNITIVE DAMAGES
PLAINTIFF v. DEFENDANT. RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
14. Plaintiff hereby incorporates by reference the allegations
set forth in paragraphs one through thirteen of this Complaint as if
same were fully set forth at length herein.
15. On or about September 7, 1993, defendant, Richard Randolph
-4-
YOST & TREllA. FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401 . 1600 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA. PA lQl03
Cook, consumed alcoholic beverages and/or ingested illegal drugs.
16. The consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or ingestion of
illegal drugs by the defendant rendered him unfit to drive on the
roadways of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
17. Defendant, Richard Randolph cook, knew or should have known
that the consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or ingestion of illegal
drugs would render him unfit to drive.
18. Despite being aware that the consumption of alcoholic
beverages and/or ingestion of drugs would interfere with his ability to
drive, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, did drive his vehicle, thereby
endangering all drivers and passengers of other vehicles on the
roadway, as well as all pedestrians and/or property owners in his path
of travel.
19. Defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, acted willfully, wantonly
and recklessly in:
(a) consuming alcoholic beverages and/or ingesting illegal
drugs;
(b) consuming alcoholic beverages and/or ingesting illegal
drugs, despite being aware that it would render him
unfit to drive;
(c) driving his vehicle while under the influence of
alcoholic beverages and/or illegal drugs;
(d) driving his vehicle while under the influence of
alcoholic beverages and/or illegal drugs, despite being
aware that his ability to drive had been affected;
(e) acting with a reckless indifference to the interests of
the plaintiff and others similarly situated; and
(f) otherwise acting willfully, wantonly and/or recklessly
under the circumstances.
20. The aforementioned willful, wanton and/or reckless conduct of
-5-
YOST & TREllA. FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA . SUITE 1401 . l!lOO JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA Igto3
the defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, caused substantial and severe
damage to the plaintiff's real and personal property as well as the
loss of use of same, and therefore, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook,
is liable to the plaintiff for the damages sustained.
21. As a direct and proximate result of the willful, wanton and
reckless conduct of defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his agents,
servants and/or workmen, the plaintiff has sustained damage to its real
and personal property not in excess of $25,000.00, along with related
losses in the form of loss of use and inconvenience.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff, First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle,
demands that judgment be entered in its favor and against defendant,
Richard Randolph Cook, in an amount not in excess of $25,000.00,
together with interest, costs, punitive damages and delay damages.
COUNT III - NEGLIGENCE
PLAINTIFF V. DEFENDANT. POLY-TRUCKING. INC.
22. Plaintiff hereby incorporates by reference the allegations
set forth in paragraphs one through twenty-one of this Complaint as if
same were fully set forth at length herein.
23. On September 7, 1993, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, was
employed by defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc., and at all times relevant
hereto, acted as the agent, servant and/or workman of POly-Trucking,
Inc.
24. On September 7, 1993, defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc., owned
the tractor being driven by defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, and
consented to said use.
25. Defendant, pOly-Trucking, Inc., at all times relevant hereto,
-6-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401 . 11500 JOHN F. KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA IglOO
knew or should have known that defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, would
operate its tractor in a negligent, reckless, careless, willful and
wanton manner.
26. Defendant, POly-Trucking, Inc., at all times relevant hereto,
knew or should have known that defendant, Richard Randolph cook, would
operate the vehicle owned by POly-Trucking, Inc. while under the
influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs.
27. Defendant, POly-Trucking, Inc., at all times relevant hereto,
entrusted its vehicle to defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, who
defendant knew or should have known was unfit to operate a vehicle on
the roadways of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
28. The motor vehicle accident and resultant damages referred to
above were caused by the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of
defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc., its agents, servants and/or workmen in:
(a) entrusting its tractor to defendant, Richard Randolph
Cook, despite its knowledge that Richard Randolph Cook
would operate the tractor in a negligent, careless,
willful and/or wanton manner;
(b) entrusting its tractor to defendant, Richard Randolph
Cook, despite its knowledge or constructive knowledge
that Richard Randolph Cook would operate the tractor
under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs;
(c) failing to properly hire, train and/or supervise
defendant, Richard Randolph Cook;
(d) allowing defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, to operate
its tractor in a negligent, reckless, careless, willful
and/or wanton manner;
(e) allowing defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, to operate
its tractor, despite its knowledge that he would operate
the tractor in a negligent, reckless, careless, willful
and/or wanton manner; and
(f) otherwise failing to exercise due care and caution under
the circumstances.
-7-
YOST & TRETTA. FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA. SUITE 1401 . 11500 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 1;103
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YOST & TRETTA
BY: RICHARO W. YOST
IOENTIFICATION NO.: 37941
FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA, SUITE 1401
1600 JOHN F. KENNEDY BOULEVARD
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 972-6600
ATTORNEY FOR: Plaintiff,
First presbyterian Church of
Carlisle
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CARLISLE
2A North Hanover Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
323 East Louther Street
carlisle, PA 17013
and
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
2000 West Marshall Drive
Grand Prairie, Texas 75051
95 - !7lP3 ~-J1.AtI^---
NO.
COMPLAINT
NOTICE
'Iou have b..n sued in court. If you wish to defend .9.1.i"I' the clAims set forth in the following pAges, you musllA.. action within .......nty (20) day. afte, this
complaint and noliee art urved. by .nt.ring a Wlitt," lapp.atane. personalty or by altorn-v and filing in writing with the COUf' your d,f,n... or objKtionllo thl
claims ut forth againll you. You .r. warned thall' you tail to do 10 thl cu. mAy ptoc..d without you and a judgment mAy b, entered agAInst you by the court
Without furth., notice ro, any mon.v claim.d in the complaint or for any othl' claim or f,li,f Itquuttd by the plalnliH. You may Iou mont)' or property or other
tighls important to you.
you SHOULO TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWVER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAI'NER DR CANNOT AFFORD ONE. GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE
OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIIID OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP,
AVila
It han demandado. u,fftf en 'a eort.. $1 Ulttd qui.,. defend'r..d, "IAS dtmandu .xPUtltas In las paginu Itguianl", ul&,td II.". valnl. (20) diu d, plazo
..I partir d, I. fKha d, I. demand.. V III notiftcAclon. Hac. falt. "Inlat una competanet. ..elit. 0 In p.rsona 0 con un abogado y antraga, a I. co,t. In forma
..clIl3. IUI dal.nul 0 IUI oblecion.. a 1M d.mandu In contra d, au persona. S.. Ivisado qua II ulled no I' dtfitnd.. 'a cart. pueda dtcldi, . fAVOt d.1
demandanl. Y fltqui.,. qUI ust,d cumpl. con todu Iu provision,. d, uta demand.. Usl,d pultdt petdt, din.to 0 IUI proplectAd" U otrOI det.chOI
impo'tanl'~ piua utl.d.
LLeVE ESTA DEMANDA A UII ABOGADO INMEDIATAMENTE, SI NO nENE ABDOADO 0 51 NO nENE EL DINERO SUFICIENTE DE PAGAR TAL SERVlCIO,
VAVA EN PERSONA 0 LLAME POR TELEFONO A LA OFICINA CUYA DIRECCIDN SE ENCUENTRA ESCRITA ABAJO PARA AVERIGUAR DONDE SE PUEDE
COI'SEGUIR ASISTEI'CIA LEGAL,
COURT ADMINISTRATOR
CUMBERLAND CO COURTHOUSE 4th FLOOR
1 COURTHOUSE SQUARE
f1l1I1f PROM R~LISLE PA 17013 3387
. .. I--unlt"mr~) 240 6200
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.. of at CIItiIII, fIlL_
{(, '19 4'1 ..
YO;N.T~ FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401.,1500 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD . PHILADELPHIA, PA ,;,03
Louther street, carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013.
3. Defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc., is a corporation organized
and existing under the laws of the state of Texas, with a business
address of 2000 West Marshall Drive, Grand prairie, Texas 75051.
4. At all times relevant hereto, defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc.,
conducted business throughout the Commonwealth of pennsylvania,
including cumberland county.
5. At all times relevant hereto, defendant, Richard Randolph
COOK, was employed by defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc., and acted as the
agent, servant and/or workman of poly-Trucking, Inc.
6. On or about september 7, 1993, at approximatelY 5:00 p.m.,
defendant, Richard Randolph cook, operated a 1993 Freightliner tractor,
owned by defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc., in an easterly direction on
West High street, Carlisle, pennsylvania.
7. As said Defendant, Richard Randolph cook, executed a left
turn from West High street onto North Hanover street, he crossed into
the southbound lane of North Hanover street and struck a Chevrolet
Blazer, which was operated by Mark Alan Thies.
8. After the defendants I vehicle collided with the vehicle
driven by Thies, it continued to travel onto the plainti~f's property,
Knocked down a wrought iron fence and shrubbery, collided with a tree
and came to rest against the First preSbyterian Church of carlisle.
9. As a result of the defendants I conduct, the plaintiff has
sustained damage to its real and personal property not in excess of
$25,000.00, as well as related losses in the form of loss of use and
inconvenience for which defendants, their agents, servants and/or
-2-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA . SUITE \40' . .eoo JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD' PHIlJ\DELPHIA, PA 19103
workmen, are solely liable.
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
PLAINTIFF v. DEFENDANT. RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
10. Plaintiff hereby incorporates by reference the allegations
set forth in paragraphs one through nine of this Complaint as if same
were fully set forth at length herein.
11. The motor vehicle accident and resultant damages referred to
above were caused by the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of
defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his agents, servants and/or workmen,
in:
(a) operating his vehicle at high and excessive rates of
speed which were in violation of the laws and statutes
of Pennsylvania;
(b) failing to have his vehicle under proper and adequate
control;
(c) failing to execute and complete a proper left turn;
(d) crossing the center line into opposing traffic;
(e) failing to maintain an assured clear distance between
his vehicle and those about his;
(f) driving too fast for the conditions then and there
present, including but not limited to weather, road and
traffic conditions, and the respective sizes of the
vehicles;
.
(g) being inattentive and failing to maintain a careful,
cautious and prudent lookout upon the public highways;
(h) operating his vehicle without due regard for the rights
and safety of the plaintiff;
(i) driving his vehicle without proper and adequate
training;
(j) operating his vehicle at a speed in excess of that which
would permit a driver to execute and complete a proper
left turn;
-3-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE '401 . 1600 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
(k) operating his vehicle while under the influence of
alcohol and/or illegal drugs;
(1) failing to exercise that reasonable degree of care,
skill and foresight in accordance with the standards of
licensed drivers in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania;
and
(m) otherwise failing to exercise due care and caution under
the circumstances.
12. The aforementioned negligence, carelessness and recklessness
of defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his agents, servants and/or
workmen, caused substantial and severe damage to the plaintiff's real
and personal property, as well as the loss of use of same, and
therefore, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, is liable to the plaintiff
for the damages sustained in the loss.
13. As a direct and proximate cause of the negligence,
carelessness and recklessness of defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his
agents, servants and/or workmen, plaintiff has sustained damage to its
real and personal property not in excess of $25,000.00, along with
related losses in the form of loss of use and inconvenience.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff, First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle,
demands that judgment be entered in its favor and against defendant,
Richard Randolph Cook, in an amount not in excess of $25,000.00,
.
together with interest, costs and delay damages.
COUNT II - PUNITIVE DAMAGES
PLAINTIFF v. DEFENDANT. RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
14. Plaintiff hereby incorporates by reference the allegations
set forth in paragraphs one through thirteen of this Complaint as if
same were fully set forth at length herein.
15. On or about September 7, 1993, defendant, Richard Randolph
-4-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA. SUITE 1401 . 1600 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA. PA 19103
Cook, consumed alcoholic beverages and/or ingested illegal drugs.
16. The consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or ingestion of
illegal drugs by the defendant rendered him unfit to drive on the
roadways of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
17. Defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, knew or should have known
that the consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or ingestion of illegal
drugs would render him unfit to drive.
18. Despite being aware that the consumption of alcoholic
beverages and/or ingestion of drugs would interfere with his ability to
drive, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, did drive his vehicle, thereby
endangering all drivers and passengers of other vehicles on the
roadway, as well as all pedestrians and/or property owners in his path
of travel.
19. Defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, acted willfully, wantonly
and recklessly in:
(a) consuming alcoholic beverages and/or ingesting illegal
drugs:
(b) consuming alcoholic beverages and/or ingesting illegal
drugs, despite being aware that it would render him
unfit to drive:
driving his vehicle while under the influence of
alcoholic beverages and/or illegal drugs:
(d) driving his vehicle while under the influence of
alcoholic beverages and/or illegal drugs, despite being
aware that his ability to drive had been affected:
(c)
(e) acting with a reckless indifference to the interests of
the plaintiff and others similarly situated: and
(f) otherwise acting willfully, wantonly and/or recklessly
under the circumstances.
20. The aforementioned willful, wanton and/or reckless conduct of
-5-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA . SUITE 140' . '600 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA '9103
the defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, caused substantial and severe
damage to the plaintiff's real and personal property as well as the
loss of use of same, and therefore, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook,
is liable to the plaintiff for the damages sustained.
21. As a direct and proximate result of the willful, wanton and
reckless conduct of defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, his agents,
servants and/or workmen, the plaintiff has sustained damage to its real
and personal property not in excess of $25,000.00, along with related
losses in the form of loss of use and inconvenience.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff, First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle,
demands that judgment be entered in its favor and against defendant,
Richard Randolph Cook, in an amount not in excess of $25,000.00,
together with interest, costs, punitive damages and delay damages.
COUNT III - NEGLIGENCE
PLAINTIFF V. DEFENDANT. POLY-TRUCKING. INC.
22. Plaintiff hereby incorporates by reference the allegations
set forth in paragraphs one through twenty-one of this Complaint as if
same were fully set forth at length herein.
23. On September 7, 1993, defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, was
employed by defendant, POly-Trucking, Inc., and at all cimes relevant
hereto, acted as the agent, servant and/or workman of POly-Trucking,
Inc.
24. On September 7, 1993, defendant, POly-Trucking, Inc., owned
the tractor being driven by defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, and
consented to said use.
25. Defendant, Poly-TruCking, Inc., at all times relevant hereto,
-6-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA. SUITE 1401 . 11500 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA. PA 1;103
knew or should have known that defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, would
operate its tractor in a negligent, reckless, careless, willful and
wanton manner.
26. Defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc., at all times relevant hereto,
knew or should have known that defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, would
operate the vehicle owned by Poly-Trucking, Inc. while under the
influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs.
27. Defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc., at all times relevant hereto,
entrusted its vehicle to defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, who
defendant knew or should have known was unfit to operate a vehicle on
the roadways of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
28. The motor vehicle accident and resultant damages referred to
above were caused by the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of
defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc., its agents, servants and/or workmen in:
(a) entrusting its tractor to defendant, Richard Randolph
Cook, despite its knowledge that Richard Randolph Cook
would operate the tractor in a negligent, careless,
willful and/or wanton manner;
(b) entrusting its tractor to defendant, Richard Randolph
Cook, despite its knowledge or constructive knowledge
that Richard Randolph Cook would operate the tractor
under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs;
(c) failing to properly hire, train and/or supervise
defendant, Richard Randolph Cook;
(d) allowing defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, to operate
its tractor in a negligent, reckless, careless, willful
and/or wanton manner;
(e) allowing defendant, Richard Randolph Cook, to operate
its tractor, despite its knowledge that he would operate
the tractor in a negligent, reckless, careless, willful
and/or wanton manner; and
(f) otherwise failing to exercise due care and caution under
the circumstances.
-7-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE \401 . 1600 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA. PA 19103
29.
The aforementioned negligence,
carelessness and/or
recklessness of defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc., its agents, servants
and/or workmen, caused substantial and severe damage to the plaintiff's
real and personal property, as well as the loss of use of same, and
therefore, defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc., is liable to the plaintiff
for the damages sustained in the loss.
30. As a direct and proximate cause of the negligence,
carelessness and/or recklessness of defendant, poly-Trucking, Inc., its
agents, servants and/or workmen, plaintiff has sustained damage to its
real and personal property not in excess of $25,000.00, along with
related losses in the form of loss of use and inconvenience.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff, First presbyterian Church of Carlisle,
demands that judgment be entered in its favor and against defendant,
poly-Trucking, Inc., in an amount not in excess of $25,000.00, together
with interest, costs, punitive
and delay da~ages.
YOST &'T~TTA
I " J. ; L.....__
BY: ,h':L'..:t ,: }\.) " \
RiChard W. Yost \
Au~orney for Plainti~f,
~i~~~preSbyterian chfrch
,/car le : .
", \.
"~
of
-8-
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PU\ZA. SUITE 1401 . 1600 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD' PHILADELPHIA, PA 1;'03
i;
It
VERIFICATION
Joan Miller, who is Property Chairperson of First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle and
acknowledges that she has the authority to execute this Verification in behalf of First
Presbyterian Church of Carlisle certifies that the foregoing Complaint is based upon
information which has been gathered by my counsel in the preparation of the lawsuit. The
language of this Complaint is that of counsel and not my own. I have read the document and
to the extent that the Complaint is based upon information which I have given to my counsel,
it is true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. To the extent that
the content of the Complaint is that of counsel, I have relied upon counsel in making this
Verification.
This statement and Verification are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. Section
4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities, which provides that if I make knowingly
false averments, I may be subject to criminal penalties.
, . .
First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle
bm{ };~
.
BRITT, HANKINS, SCHArBLE , MOUGHAN
BYa Joseph M. Hankins, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 20052
Elizabeth S. Gallard, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 63258
Two Penn Center Plaza
Suite 515
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 569-6900
Attorneys for Defendant
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
OF CARLISLE
.
.
.
.
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
.
.
.
.
v.
.
.
.
.
NO. 95-1763
RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
and
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
:
.
.
:
ENTRY OP APPEARANCB
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter our appearance on behalf of the defendant, Poly-
TruCking, Inc., in the above-referenced matter.
BRITT, HANKINS, SCHAIBLE & MOUGHAN
BY:
'4' ~~
e M. Hank ns, Esqu re
Elizabeth S. Gallard, Esquire
Attorneys for Defendant
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
Dated:
,;/1/ 4~
,
JURY 'l'RrAL DEMANDED
5. Denied. To the contrary, co-defendant was not acting as
the agent, servant or workman of answering defendant at the time
set forth in the Complaint. To the contrary, co-defendant was
acting on his own business at the time of the alleged incident.
6-9. Answering defendant denies any allegations or implica-
tions set forth in these paragraphs that co-defendant was acting as
its agent, servant or workman at the time of the accident. To the
contrary, co-defendant was on his own business at the time of the
alleged incident. Admi tted only that a tractor owned by Poly-
Trucking, Inc. was involved in the incident. The remaining
allegations of paragraphs 6 through 9 are denied.
COUNT 1:
10. Answering defendant incorporates by reference each and
every answer to paragraphs 1 through 9 su~ra as though fully set
forth at length.
11-13. Answering defendant specifically denies any
allegations or implications contained in these paragraphs that co-
defendant was acting as its agent, servant or workman at the time
of the alleged incident. To the contrary. co-defendant was on his
own business. Likewise, answering defendant specifically denies
any allegations that it was acting as the agent, servant or workman
of co-defendant at the time of the alleged incident. The remaining
allegations contained in paragraphs 11 through 13 are denied.
WHEREFORE, answering defendant demands judgment dismissing
Count I of Plaintiff's Complaint with prejudice, together with
costs of suit and attorneys' fees.
COUNT II
14. Answering defendant incorporates by reference each and
every answer to paragraphs 1 through 13 supra as though fully set
forth at length.
15-21. Answering defendant denies any allegations or
implications contained in these paragraphs that it was acting as
anyone else's agent, servant or workman at the time of the accident
or that co-defendant was acting as its agent, servant or workman at
the time of the alleged incident. To the contrary, co-defendant was
on his own business at the time of the accident. With respect to
the remaining allegations contained in these paragraphs, answering
defendant, after reasonable investigation, is without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of those
averments and strict proof thereof, if relevant, is demanded at the
time of trial.
WHEREFORE, answering defendant demands judgment dismissing
Count II of Plaintiff's Complaint with prejudice, together with
costs of suit and attorneys' fees.
COUNT III
22. Answering defendant incorporates by reference each and
every answer to paragraphs 1 through 21 sunra as though fully set
forth at length.
23. Denied. To the contrary, co-defendant was on his own
business at the time of the accident.
24. Admitted that answering defendant owned the tractor. It
is specifically denied that co-defendant had given its consent to
co-defendant to use the tractor in question, on the date in
question and for the purpose in question.
25-30. Answering defendant specifically denies any
allegetions or implications contained in these paragraphs that co-
defendant was acting as its agent, servant or workman at the time
of the alleged accident. To the contrary, co-defendant was on his
own business at the time of the accident. The remaining allega-
tions contained in paragraphs 25 through 30 are denied.
WHEREFORE, answering defendant demands judgment dismissing
Count ILl of Plaintiff's Complaint with prejudice, together with
costs of suit and attorneys' fees.
NEW MATTER
31. No action or failure to act on the part of answering
defendant caused plaintiff to sustain any injuries.
32. Co-defendant, Richard Cook, was not acting as the agent,
servant or workman of answering defendant at the time of the
alleged accident. Therefore, answering defendant can have no
responsibility to plaintiff.
33. Answering defendant had not given its permission to co-
defendant Cook to use the tractor on the date in question, in the
manner in question and for the purpose in question.
34. Any damages claimed by plaintiff may have been related to
natural conditions and/or wear and tear conditions at the property
in question rather than having been caused by any direct impact by
any vehicle involved in the accident.
......
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YOST , TRETTA
BYa Richard W. Yost
IDBNTIFICATION NO. 37941
FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA
SUITE 1401
1600 JOHN F. KENNEDY BOULBVARD
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 972-6600
ATTORNEY FORa plaintiff,
First presbyterian Church
of carlisle
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF
CARLISLE
.
.
.
.
.
.
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
.
.
.
.
RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
and
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
NO. 95-1763
CIVIL TERM
.
.
RESPONSE OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, PLAINTIFF,
TO THE NEW MATTER OF DEFENDANT. POLY-TRUCKING. INC.
Plaintiff, First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle, by and
through its counsel, Yost & Tretta, hereby responds to the New
Matter of defendant, Poly-Trucking, Inc., as follows:
31-34.
Denied. The allegations contained in paragraphs 31
through 34 of the New Matter of defendant, POly-Trucking, Inc., are
denied as they represent conclusions of law to which no response is
required. To the extent said allegations are not conclusions of
law, they are denied for the reason that after reasonable
investigation, plaintiff is without knowledge or information
sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments
contained therein. It is specifically denied that Richard Randolph
cook was not acting as the agent, servant or workman of Poly-
YOST & TRETTA. FOUR PENN CENTER PlAZA' SUITE 140. . 1600 JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 19'03
Trucking, Inc.
WHEREFORE, plaintiff, First Presbyterian Church of Carlisle,
demands that judgment be entered in its favor and against the
defendants in an amount not in excess of twenty-five thousand
($25,000.00) dollars, together with interest, cost and delay
damages.
, TRETTA
tiff,
Church
-2-
YOST & TRffiA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401 . IllOO JOHN F, KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA. PA lDI03
VERIFICATION
RICHARD W. YOST, ESQUIRE, states that he is the attorney for
the defendant herein; that he is acquainted with the facts set
forth in the foregoing Response to New Matter; that the same are
true and correct to the best of his knowledge, information and
belief; and that this statement is made bject to the penalties of
18 Pa. C.S. S4904 relating to unsworn ification to authorities.
! dwibJ
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401 . 1600 JOHN F. KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA. PA 1;103
YOST , TRBTTA
BYI Riohard W. Yost
IDBNTIrICATION NO. 37941
FOUR PBNN CBNTBR PLAZA
SUITB 1401
1600 JOHN r. KENNEDY BOULEVARD
PHILADBLPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 972-6600
ATTORNBY rORI plaintiff,
rirat pre.byterian Churoh
of Carlisle
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF
CARLISLE
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
and
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
.
:
NO. 95-1763
CIVIL TERM
.
.
ORDBR TO SBTTLB. DISCONTINUE AND BND
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly mark the above-captioned matter settled, discontinued
and ended upon payment of your costs only.
BY:
I W. YOS
torney for aintiff,
First Presbyterian Church
of Carlisle
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401 . lllOO JOHN F. KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PA 1;103
YOST , TRBTTA
BYI Rioha~d w. Yoat
IDBNTI~ICATION NO. 37941
~OUR PENN CBNTBR PLAZA
SUZTE 1401
1600 JOHN ~. KENNEDY BOULBVARD
PHILADBLPHIA, PA 19103
(215) 972-&600
ATTORNBY ~ORI plaintiff,
~i~at pr.a~yt.rian Chu~oh
of Ca~lial.
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF
CARLISLE
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
v.
RICHARD RANDOLPH COOK
and
POLY-TRUCKING, INC.
NO. 95-1763
CIVIL TERM
ORDER TO SBTTLB. DISCONTINUE AND BND
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly mark the above-captioned matter settled, discontinued
and ended upon payment of your costs only.
BY:
I W. YOS
torney for aintiff,
First presbyterian Church
of Carlisle
YOST & TRETTA . FOUR PENN CENTER PLAZA. SUITE 1401 . 11lOO JOHN F. KENNEDY BOULEVARD. PHILADELPHIA, PI. 111103