Duquesne Light Company has taken legal action against two individuals, alleging negligence and seeking compensation for damages. The complaint was filed by Duquesne Light Company in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, on December 2, 2024, naming Ronnie E. Curtis and Ronell Guy as defendants.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on or about December 2, 2022. According to the complaint, Ronnie E. Curtis was driving a Buick Lacrosse near Marshall Avenue in Pittsburgh when he allegedly collided with a utility pole owned by Duquesne Light Company. The company claims that Curtis operated the vehicle negligently and carelessly, leading to significant damage to their property and electric facilities. "Defendant Driver operated the vehicle in a negligent and careless manner," states the complaint, which outlines several specific failures on Curtis's part, including not maintaining control of the vehicle and failing to keep a proper lookout.
Furthermore, Duquesne Light accuses Ronell Guy of negligent entrustment. The company asserts that Guy owned the vehicle involved in the incident and allowed Curtis to drive it despite knowing or having reason to know that Curtis might operate it unsafely. They also allege that Guy failed to ensure the vehicle was insured as required by state law. The complaint highlights multiple points where Guy allegedly failed in his duty of care by entrusting his vehicle to someone potentially incapable of safe operation.
Duquesne Light Company is seeking $10,449.10 from each defendant for labor, materials, transportation costs, and other expenses incurred while repairing or replacing their damaged utility pole and electric facilities. They request judgment against both Curtis for negligence and Guy for negligent entrustment, along with interest and any additional relief deemed appropriate by the court.
Representing Duquesne Light Company is attorney Lauren N. Rulli from their office at 411 Seventh Avenue in Pittsburgh. The case is being overseen by judges within the Civil Division-Arbitration sector of Allegheny County's Court of Common Pleas under Case No: AR 24 - CVPDD008S270F109.