On June 02, 2010 a
Answer
was filed
involving a dispute between
Hagen, Laurance,
and
3M Company,
4520 Corp., Inc.,,
A & A Mechanical Contractors Inc.,
A & A Sheet Metal,
Aberthaw Construction Company,
Acco Engineered Systems, Inc.,
A.E. Knowles Corporation,
Aire Sheet Metal Inc.,
Air Systems Mechanical Contractor,
A.J. Peters & Son,
Aladdin Heating Corporation,
Albay Construction Company,
Allied Painters, Inc.,
Allied Sprinkler Company, Inc.,
Anderson, Rowe & Buckley, Inc.,
Applied Support Systems, Inc.,
A.R.B. Mechanical,
Armaral Plumbing,
Associated Insulation Of California,
Atlas Heating And Ventilating Company, Ltd.,
Bailey Plumbing, Heating & Sheet Metal,
Barnes Construction Co.,
Bay Cities Crane And Rigging, Inc.,
Bayer Cropscience Inc.,
Bayer Cropscience, Inc.,,
B H P Minerals International, Inc.,
Bigge Crane And Rigging Co.,
Bragg Investment Company, Inc.,
B.T. Mancini Co., Inc.,
Buttner Corp.,
Cahill Contractors, Inc.,
Carrier Corporation,
Cbs Corporation, A Delaware Corporation, Fka,
Cbs Corporation (F K A Viacom Inc., F K A,
C.C. Moore & Co. Engineers,
Certainteed Corporation,
Chevron U.S.A. Inc.,
Chicago Bridge & Iron Company,
Chicago Bridge & Iron Company,,
Cleaver-Brooks, Inc.,
Coastal West Ventures, Inc.,
Commair Mechanical Services,
Conocophillips Company,
Consolidated Insulation, Inc.,
Cooper Brothers, Inc.,
Corey Contractors,
Cosco Fire Protection, Inc.,
Coscol Petroleum Corporation,
Coscol Petroleum Corporation Erroneously Named And,
Crane Co.,
Crowley Plumbing,
Crown Cork & Seal Company, Inc.,
C & R Plastering, Inc.,
Cupertino Electric, Inc.,
Dana Companies, Llc,
Devcon Construction, Inc.,
Dillingham Construction, N.A., Inc.,
Does 1-8500,
Domco Products Texas Inc. Erroneously Sued,
Domco Products Texas, L.P.,
Dome Construction Corporation,
Douglass Insulation Company, Inc.,
D.W. Nicholson Corporation,
D. Zelinsky & Sons, Inc.,
Early Engineering Corporation, Incorporated,
East Bay Sheet Metal Works,
East Bay Sheet Metal Works, A Dissolved Corp.,
E.C. Braun Company, Inc.,
Emerick Sheet Metal Co.,
Emil J. Weber Electric Co.,
E. Mitchell, Inc.,
Enterprise Plumbing, Inc.,
Erwin Mechanical Inc.,
Ex- Fm, Inc. (Fka Fischbach And Moore Electric,,
Exxon Mobil Corporation,
Faye Plumbing,
Fdcc California, Inc.,
Finzel Plumbing Company,
Fischbach And Moore, Incorporated, Nka Ex-Fm, Inc.,
Fluor Corporation,
Foley-Pmi, Inc.,
Foster Wheeler Llc,
Foster Wheeler Llc (Fka Foster Wheeler,
F.P. Lathrop Construction Company,
F.P. Lathrop Construction Company,,
Frank Bonetti Plumbing, Inc.,
Frederick Meiswinkel, Inc.,
F.W. Spencer & Son, Inc.,
Garlock Sealing Technologies, Llc,
General Cable Corporation,
General Electric Company,
George F. Schuler, Inc.,
George M Robinson & Co.,
George Townsend & Associates,
George Wilson Company, Inc.,
Georgia-Pacific Corporation,
Georgia-Pacific Llc,
Giampolini & Co.,
Golden Gate Drywall, Inc.,
Granite Rock Company,
Grinnell Corporation,
Grinnell Llc,,
Haas And Haynie Corporation,
Haas & Haynie Corporation,
Hamilton Materials, Inc.,
Hansen Plumbing And Heating,
Hanson Permanente Cement, Inc. Formerly Known As,
Harry Lee Plumbing & Heating,
H.B. Fuller Company,
H & C Investment Associates, Inc.,
Hensel Phelps Construction Co,
Hensel Phelps Construction Co.,
Herrick Iron Works,
Honeywell International, Inc.,
Honeywell International Inc., Fka Alliedsignal,,
Hopeman Brothers, Inc.,
H.T.R. Enterprises, Inc.,
Ingersoll-Rand Company,
Jacobs Constructors, Inc.,
James A. Nelson Co., Inc.,
James Nelson,
Johnson Controls, Inc.,
J.R. Simplot Company,
J.T. Thorpe, Inc.,
J.T. Thorpe & Son, Inc.,
J.W. Mcclenahan Company, Inc.,
Kaiser Gypsum Company, Inc.,
Kelly-Moore Paint Company, Inc.,
Kentile Floors, Inc.,
Kent M. Lim & Company, Inc.,
Kinetic Systems, Inc.,
Kramer Acoustics,
Laub Sheet Metal Works,
Leonard Construction Company,
Lewis Air & Refrigeration,
L.J. Kruse Company,
Macarthur Company,
Madlem Mechanical, Inc.,
Marcal Associates, Ltd.,
Marconi Plastering Company, Inc.,
Marina Heating & Air Conditioning,
Marina Plumbing Company,
Mauch Sheet Metal,
Mayta & Jensen,
Mcguire & Hester Corporation,
Mckeon Construction,
Mcmillan Brothers Electric, Inc.,
Metropolitan Life Insurance Company,
Monterey Mechanical Company,
Norcal Scaffolding,
N. P. I. Corporation,
N.V. Heathorn, Inc.,
Oakfabco, Inc.,
Ocean Shore Iron Works,
O.C. Mcdonald Co., Inc.,
O H I Company, Inc.,
Oscar E. Erickson, Inc.,
Owens-Illinois, Inc.,
Owens Mckeon Construction,
Pacific Coast Builders,
Pacific Gas & Electric Company,
Pacific Mechanical Corporation,
Parker-Hannifin Corporation,
Parsons Infrastructure & Technology Group Inc.,
Peerless Stucco Co.,
Perini Corporation,
Perini Land And Development Company,
Peter Kiewit Sons, Inc.,
Peter Lim Construction,
Pierce Enterprises,
Pierce Lathing Company Dba Pierce Enterprises,
Power Refrigeration Company,
Powers Process Controls,
Quality Air Conditioning, Inc.,
Quintec Industries, Inc.,
Raphael Company,
Raymond Interior Systems-North,
Ray Oil Burner Co., A Dissolved Corporation,,
Ray Oil Burner Company, Inc.,
Republic Supply Company,
Rmc Pacific Materials, Inc.,
Robertshaw Controls Company,
Rodoni Becker,
Rosendahl Corporation,
Rountree Plumbing & Heating Inc.,
Rudolph And Sletten, Inc.,
Santa Fe Braun, Inc. As Successor-In-Interest To,
Schneider Electric Usa, Inc. (Fka Square D,
Scott Co. Of California,
Scott Norman Mechanical Company,
Scott Technologies, Inc.,
Sequoia Ventures Inc.,
S F L, Inc.,
Shell Oil Company,
Sierra Pacific Industries,
S.J. Amoroso Construction Co., Inc.,
Stanford Plumbing,
Stolte Inc.,
Sugden Engineering Co.,
Swinerton Builders,
Temporary Plant Cleaners, Inc.,
Texaco, Inc.,
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company,
The Jack Dymond Company,
The Linford Company,
Therma Corporation,
Therma Mechanical,
Thermon Manufacturing Co.,
Thomas Air & Refrigeration Inc.,
Thomas Dee Engineering Company,
Timec Company, Inc.,
Tosco Corporation,
Tosco Corporation Erroneously Sued And Served As,
Trane U.S., Inc., Erroneously Sued As Trane U.S.,,
Trane Us, Inc. Fka American Standard, Inc.,
Turner Construction Company,
Tutor-Saliba Corporation,
Union Oil Company Of California,
University Mechanical And Engineering Contractors,,
Valley Sheet Metal,
Van-Mulder Sheet Metal, Inc.,
Vogel & Associates,
Walnut Creek Sheet Metal, Furnace & Air,
Washington Group International, Inc.,
Western Allied Corporation,
Western Asbestos Company,
Western Insulation, Inc.,
Western Macarthur Company,
Western Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc.,
W.G. Thompson, Inc.,
Wheatley-Jacobsen, Inc.,
Williams & Burrows, Inc.,
Wilson Construction Company,
W.L. Hickey Sons, Inc.,
Wright Schuchart Harbor,
Wright Schuchart Harbor Company,
Yamas Controls Group Inc.,
Zurn Industries, Llc,
for ASBESTOS
in the District Court of San Francisco County.
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BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
John R. Brydon [Bar No. 083365]
George A. Otstott [Bar No. 184671]
BRYDON HUGO & PARKER
135 Main Street, 20th Floor ELECTRONICALLY
San Francisco, CA 94105 FILED
Telephone: (415) 808-0300 Superior Court of California,
Facsimile: (415) 808-0333 County of San Francisco
Attorneys for Defendant AUG 12 2010
BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to BY: WILLIAM TRUPEK
AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. Deputy Clerk
SUPERIOR COURT - STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO — UNLIMITED JURISDICTION
LAURANCE HAGEN, (ASBESTOS)
Case No. CGC-10-275582
Plaintiff(s),
v8. ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC.,
SUCCESSOR TO AMCHEM PRODUCTS,
ASSOCIATED INSULATION OF INC. TO COMPLAINT FOR PERSONAL
CALIFORNIA, et al., INJURY - ASBESTOS
Defendants.
COMES NOW Defendant BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM
PRODUCTS, INC. (“AMCHEM” or “Defendant”) denying liability for itself and any
alternate entities named in the complaint, and answering plaintiff's Complaint for Personal
Injury — Asbestos (hereinafter the “Complaint’”), on file herein, admits, denies, and alleges
as follows:
GENERAL DENIAL
Under the provisions of Section 431.30(d), California Code of Civil Procedure, this
answering defendant denies each and every allegation of plaintiff's Complaint and the
whole thereof, and denies that plaintiff has been damaged in any sum or amount
whatsoever, or at all, and denies that plaintiff is entitled to recover damages of any kind in
any amount whatsoever from AMCHEM.
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
RESERVATION OF RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY
AMCHEM teserves the right to a trial by jury.
AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES
FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Failure to State a Cause of Action
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff's Complaint and each of the causes of
action for relief alleged therein, fails to state a cause of action against this answering}
defendant.
SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Contravention of Defendant's Constitutional Rights to Due Process of Law
The Complaint and each cause of action thereof, which is admittedly based upon a
lack of identification of the manufacturer of, and contractor using or distributing the alleged
injury-causing, product, fails to state facts sufficient to constitute a cause of action in that
plaintiff has asserted a claim for relief which, if granted, would contravene defendant’s|
constitutional rights to substantive and procedural due process of law as preserved for|
defendant by the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution and by Article I,
Section 7, of the Constitution of the State of California.
THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Denial of Defendant’s Constitutional Rights to Equal Protection of the Laws
The Complaint, and each cause of action thereof, fails to state facts sufficient to
constitute a cause of action in that plaintiff has asserted claims for relief which, if granted,
would constitute a denial by this Court of defendant's constitutional right to equal]
protection of the laws as preserved by the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States|
Constitution and by Article I, Section 7, of the Constitution of the State of California.
FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Unconstitutional Taking of Private Property for Public Use Without Just Compensation
The Complaint, and each cause of action thereof, which is admittedly based upon a
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
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BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
lack of identification of the manufacturer, and contractor using or distributing the alleged
injury-causing product, fails to state facts sufficient to constitute a cause of action in that|
plaintiff has asserted claims for relief which, if granted, would constitute the taking of
private property for public use without just compensation in contravention of the Fifth and|
Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution and by Article I, Section 7 and
19, of the Constitution of the State of California, and the applicable California statutes.
FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Comparative Fault
This answering defendant alleges that the damages, if any, complained of by
plaintiff, were proximately caused by the negligence, fault, breach of contract and/or strict|
liability of plaintiff or other defendants, firms, persons, corporations, unions, employers
and entities other than AMCHEM, and that said negligence, fault, breach of contract and/or|
strict liability comparatively reduces the percentage of any negligence, fault, breach of
contract or strict liability for which AMCHEM is legally responsible, if any be found, which|
liability this defendant expressly denies. Further, this answering defendant alleges that|
plaintiff did not exercise ordinary care, caution or prudence to avoid the incidents
complained of herein, and said incidents and the injuries and damages, if any, sustained by|
plaintiff, were directly and proximately caused and contributed to by the carelessness and
negligence of said plaintiff.
SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Contributory Negligence
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff did not exercise ordinary care,
caution or prudence to avoid the incidents complained of herein, and said incidents and the|
injuries and damages, if any, sustained by plaintiff, were directly and proximately caused|
and contributed to by the carelessness and negligence of said plaintiff.
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
SEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Uncertainty
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff's Complaint and all purported causes
of action therein are vague, ambiguous and uncertain, and fail to state a cause of action on|
any theory.
EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Laches
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff unreasonably delayed in bringing this
action and that such delay substantially prejudiced defendant, and that this action is|
therefore barred by the Doctrine of Laches.
NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Statute of Limitations
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff's Complaint and the purported
causes of action therein are barred by all statutes of limitation, including, but not limited to,
the provisions of California Code of Civil Procedure §§ 338, 338.1, 339(1), 340, 340(3) and
340.2, 343, 352, 366.1, 366.2 and California Commercial Code § 2725. Plaintiff’s claims are
further barred by the statute of limitations of states other than California pursuant to
California Code of Civil Procedure § 361.
TENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Failure to Mitigate
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff failed to mitigate damages which
plaintiff contends he suffered, and plaintiff is therefore barred from any recovery
whatsoever, or alternatively, any damages found must be reduced in proportion to such
failure to mitigate.
ELEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Estoppel
This answering defendant alleges that as a result of the acts, conduct and/or
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
omissions of plaintiff and his agents, or any of them, and each cause of action presented|
therein, is barred under the Doctrine of Estoppel.
TWELFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Waiver
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff, by his acts, conduct and omissions,
has waived the claims alleged in his Complaint and in each purported cause of action|
alleged therein.
THIRTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Acquiescence
Plaintiff acknowledged, ratified, consented to, and acquiesced in the alleged acts or
omissions, if any, of this answering defendant, thus barring plaintiff from any relief as|
prayed for herein.
FOURTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Notice of Dangers
Plaintiff was advised, informed, and warned of any potential hazards and/or
dangers, if there were any, associated with the normal or foreseeable use, handling, storage}
and in place asbestos of the products, substances, equipment and at premises in which|
exposure is claimed as is described in the Complaint and is therefore barred from any relief|
prayed for.
FIFTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Compliance with Statutes
This answering defendant alleges that all of its conduct and activities as alleged in
the plaintiff's Complaint conformed to statutes, government regulations, and industry
standards based upon the state of knowledge existing at all relevant times.
SIXTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Compliance with Specifications
This answering defendant alleges that the asbestos products or asbestos used or in
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
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BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
place at any premises, if any, for which AMCHEM had any legal responsibility, were|
manufactured, packaged, distributed or sold in accordance with contract specifications|
imposed by its co-defendants, by the U.S. Government, by the State of California, by|
plaintiff's employers, or by third parties yet to be identified.
SEVENTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
No Conspiracy
This answering defendant alleges that AMCHEM has no liability for the acts,
omissions or otherwise of any other defendant or entity because AMCHEM did not become}
legally responsible for the acts of any such defendant, nor entity, by any communication,
alleged, implied, or actual, nor act, action, or activity, and never was, nor is, a conspirator]
nor co-conspirator with any other defendant or entity.
EIGHTEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
State-of-the-Art
This answering defendant alleges that all of its activities, products, materials and its
premises at issue here at all times were conducted, used, produced, marketed, and operated
in conformity with the existing scientific, medical industrial hygiene and consumer
knowledge, art and practice and state-of-the-art.
NINETEENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
No Foreseeable Risk to Plaintiff
The state of the medical, scientific, and industrial knowledge and practice was at all
material times such that defendant neither breached any alleged duty owed plaintiff, nor
knew, nor could have known, that its activities, materials, products, activities or premises|
presented a foreseeable risk of harm to plaintiff in the normal and expected course of such
activities and use of such materials and products.
TWENTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
No Right to Control
This answering defendant alleges that any loss, injury, or damage incurred by
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
Plaintiff was proximately and legally caused by the negligent or willful acts or omissions of
parties which AMCHEM neither controlled, nor had the right to control, and was not
proximately caused by any acts, omissions, or other conduct of AMCHEM.
TWENTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Action for Relief
This answering defendant alleges the causes of action, if any, attempted to be stated
and set forth in the Complaint, are barred by the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure}
of the State of California and/or other statutes of the State of California, including without|
limitation C.C.P. § 338(d).
TWENTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Misuse and Improper Use of Products
This answering defendant alleges that if the plaintiff allegedly suffered injuries
attributable to the disturbance or use of any product for which AMCHEM had any legal]
responsibility, which allegations are expressly herein denied, the injuries were solely caused
by, and attributable to the unreasonable, unforeseeable, and inappropriate purpose and|
improper use and abuse which was made of said product by persons or entities other than
AMCHEM.
TWENTY-THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Due Care and Diligence
This answering defendant alleges that AMCHEM exercised due care and diligence in
all of the matters alleged in the Complaint, and no act or omission by AMCHEM was the|
proximate cause of any damage, injury or loss to plaintiff.
TWENTY-FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Alteration and Misuse of Product
This answering defendant alleges that an insubstantial amount, if any at all, of the
products containing asbestos distributed, used, supplied by defendant or used or in place at
any premises owned or controlled by defendant, were not disturbed or used in the presence}
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
of plaintiff and not supplied to the plaintiff, and if so, were substantially altered by others
and/or used in a manner inconsistent with the labeled directions.
TWENTY-FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Equal or Greater Knowledge of Hazards
This answering defendant alleges that any and all products containing asbestos used,
distributed or supplied by defendant were distributed or supplied to, or for, persons or|
entities who had knowledge with respect to the hazards, if any, resulting from exposure to|
products containing asbestos, which knowledge is equal to or greater than the knowledge}
of AMCHEM.
TWENTY-SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Other Parties’ Liability and Negligence
This answering defendant alleges that if there was any negligence or any other form
of liability on the part of any of the parties named herein, it was the sole and exclusive}
negligence and liability of the other persons or entities and not of AMCHEM.
TWENTY-SEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Apportionment and Offset
This answering defendant is informed and believes and thereon alleges that
plaintiff's acts and omissions, including plaintiff's agents, servants, and employees acting
within the course and scope of their employment, and others, contributed to the alleged|
damages, injury, or loss, if any, sustained by plaintiff. Defendant requests that the Court}
apply the principles of apportionment and offset so as to permit the Court or jury to
apportion liability according to fault and to grant defendant a corresponding offset against]
any damages awarded to plaintiff.
TWENTY-EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Contribution/Equitable Indemnity
This answering defendant alleges, in the event it is held liable to Plaintiff, any such
liability is expressly herein denied, and any other co-defendants are likewise held liable,
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
AMCHEM is entitled to a percentage contribution of the total liability from said co-
defendants in accordance with the principles of equitable indemnity and comparative}
contribution.
TWENTY-NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Assumption of Risk by Plaintiff's Employer(s)
This answering defendant alleges that the Complaint and each cause of action
alleged therein are barred on the grounds that plaintiff's employer or employers knowingly|
entered into and engaged in the operations, acts and conduct alleged in the Complaint, and
voluntarily and knowingly assumed all of the risks incident to said operations, acts and
conduct at the time and place mentioned in the Complaint.
THIRTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Assumption of Risk
This answering defendant alleges plaintiff assumed the risk of the matters referred to
in his Complaint and that plaintiff knew and appreciated the nature of the risk and that the|
plaintiff voluntarily accepted this risk.
THIRTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
No Market Share
This answering defendant alleges that AMCHEM did not have an appreciable share
of the market for the asbestos-containing products which allegedly caused plaintiff’s|
injuries, which occurrence AMCHEM expressly denies. Accordingly, AMCHEM may not
be held liable to plaintiff based on its alleged share of the applicable product market.
THIRTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Plaintiff Fails to Join a Substantial Market Share
The Complaint, and each cause of action thereof, fails to state facts sufficient to
constitute a cause of action against this answering defendant, in that defendant has failed to}
join a substantial market share of the producers or products to which plaintiff was allegedly
exposed.
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
THIRTY-THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Insufficient Facts to Show Substantial Market Share of this Defendant
wou
To the extent the Complaint asserts defendant’s alleged “alternative,” “market
share,” or “enterprise” liability, the Complaint fails to state facts sufficient to constitute al
cause of action against this defendant.
THIRTY-FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Independent, Intervening or Superseding Cause
This answering defendant alleges that if plaintiff suffered any injuries attributable to
the use of any product containing asbestos which was used, distributed or sold by
defendant, which allegations are expressly denied herein, the injuries were solely caused by|
an unforeseeable, independent intervening and/or superseding event beyond the control
and unrelated to any conduct of defendant. Defendant's actions, if any, were superseded
by the negligence and wrongful conduct of others.
THIRTY-FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Not a Substantial Factor
This answering defendant alleges that the Complaint and each cause of action
therein presented are barred on the grounds that the products, conduct, materials or
premises of defendant as referred to in plaintiff's Complaint, if any, were not a substantial
factor in bringing about the injuries and damages complained of by plaintiff and did not
increase the risk that plaintiff would suffer the injuries and damages complained of.
THIRTY-SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Insufficient Exposure
Any exposure of plaintiff to defendant's activities, products or exposure to asbestos
or asbestos-containing products at AMCHEM’s premises was so minimal as to be|
insufficient to establish by a reasonable degree of probability that any such product caused|
any alleged injury, damage, or loss to plaintiff.
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ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
THIRTY-SEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
No Successor Liability
This answering defendant alleges that AMCHEM has no liability for the acts,
omissions or otherwise of any other defendant or any other entity because AMCHEM did|
not become legally responsible for the acts of any such defendant or entity given the facts|
and circumstances of the pertinent transactions and never was, nor is, a successor-in-|
interest, a successor-in-liability or an alternate entity for any other user, manufacturer,
supplier, seller, distributor or premises holder relating to asbestos or asbestos-containing|
products.
THIRTY-EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Lack of Privity
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff has failed to state a cause of action in
that the Complaint fails to allege that there was privity between defendant on the one hand,
and plaintiff on the other, and furthermore, such privity did not exist between defendant on|
the one hand, and plaintiff on the other.
THIRTY-NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Secondary Assumption of Risk
This answering defendant alleges that any and all products containing asbestos used,
distributed or supplied by defendant were used, distributed or supplied to, or for, persons|
or entities who had knowledge with respect to the hazards, if any, resulting from exposure}
to products containing asbestos, which is equal to or greater than, the knowledge of|
AMCHEM, i.e. AMCHEM's liability should be reduced in proportion to the knowledge of|
plaintiff.
FORTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Civil Code Section 1431.2
This answering defendant alleges that the provisions of California Civil Code §
1431.2 (commonly referred to as “Proposition 51”) are applicable to plaintiff's Complaint
ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
and to each cause of action therein.
FORTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Workers’ Compensation Exclusive Remedy
This answering defendant alleges that the Complaint is barred by the exclusivity
provisions of the California Workers’ Compensation laws, including, but not limited to,
California Labor Code §§ 3600, et seq.
FORTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Offset for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
This answering defendant alleges that to the extent plaintiff herein recovered, or in
the future may recover, any monies in connection with any claim for workers’
compensation benefits, any amounts recovered in this action are subject to a claim by|
defendant for a credit or offset.
FORTY-THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Express Contractual Indemnity
This answering defendant alleges that if plaintiff claims exposure to asbestos or
asbestos-containing products at a AMCHEM premises, AMCHEM contracted with plaintiff|
and/or plaintiff's employer(s) for them to fully assume all responsibility for insuring}
plaintiffs safety, to guarantee that no hazardous condition existed, and/or to warn and
protect against any such conditions, during the performance of plaintiff's work, and,
further, to fully indemnify AMCHEM, and to hold AMCHEM harmless, for all
responsibility and liability arising out of said work, and/or any injuries allegedly incurred
by plaintiff as a result of any of said work. AMCHEM reserves all rights to assert these}
provisions of contractual indemnity.
FORTY-FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Consent
This answering defendant alleges that at all times mentioned, plaintiff consented to
the alleged acts or omissions of AMCHEM.
12
ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
FORTY-FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Unusual Susceptibility
This answering defendant alleges that each of plaintiff's injuries and damages, if any,
were proximately caused or contributed to by plaintiff's unforeseeable idiosyncratic
condition, unusual susceptibility, or hypersensitivity reactions for which AMCHEM is not}
liable.
FORTY-SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Good Faith
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff's claim for punitive damages is
barred because AMCHEM at all times and places mentioned in the Complaint acted|
reasonably and in good faith, and without malice or oppression towards the plaintiff.
FORTY-SEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Sophisticated User
This answering Defendant alleges that, as the California Supreme Court ruled in
Johnson v. American Standard (2008) 43 Cal.4* 56, AMCHEM was under no legal duty to
warn plaintiff of the hazard associated with the use of products containing asbestos or their
existence at any premises owned, operated, controlled or otherwise by AMCHEM, as
purchasers of said products, the plaintiff, plaintiff's employers, his unions, and/or certain
third parties yet to be identified, were knowledgeable and sophisticated users and were ina
better position to warn plaintiff of the risk associated with using products containing
asbestos and, assuming a warning was required, it was the failure of such persons or
entities to give such a warning that was the proximate and superseding cause of plaintiff's
damages, if any.
FORTY-EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Work Hazard Precautions
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff's employer(s) was/were advised and
warned of any potential hazards and/or dangers associated with the normal and|
13
ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
foreseeable conduct with, or storage and disposal of the products referred to in the|
Complaint, in a manner which was adequate notice to an industrial user of such product to}
enable it to inform its employees to take appropriate work precautions to prevent injurious|
exposure.
FORTY-NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Failure to Join Indispensable Parties
Plaintiff herein has failed to join indispensable parties (California Code of Civil
Procedure, § 389) and the Complaint is thereby defective, and plaintiff is thereby precluded
from any recovery whatsoever as prayed for herein.
FIFTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
No Standing Under California Civil Code §§ 1708-1710
Plaintiff has no standing nor right to sue for fraud and conspiracy, breach of
warranty, deceit, or any cause of action under California Civil Code, §§ 1708-1710, and|
therefore the Complaint and each cause of action thereof fails to state facts sufficient to}
constitute a cause of action against this answering defendant.
FIFTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Plaintiff is not a Real Party in Interest
Plaintiff, and each of them, herein lacks legal capacity to sue and is not a real party in
interest and is thereby precluded from any recovery whatsoever as prayed for herein.
FIFTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Fraud and Conspiracy are Not Separate Forms of Damages
Fraud and conspiracy do not constitute a separate and distinct form of damages
from general damages, and, therefore, the prayer for fraud and conspiracy in addition to
general damages does not sufficiently support or constitute a separate claim for damages|
against this answering defendant, but is simply cumulative and included in general
damages.
14
ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
FIFTY-THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Failure to Allege with Particularity
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff's Complaint fails to set out its claims
with sufficient particularity to permit defendant to raise all appropriate defenses and, thus,
defendant reserves the right to add additional defenses as the factual basis for these claims|
becomes known.
FIFTY-FOURTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Punitive Damage Prohibited
This answering defendant alleges that plaintiff's Complaint fails to state facts
sufficient to support an award of punitive or exemplary damages against AMCHEM. The|
Complaint, to the extent that it seeks exemplary or punitive damages, violates AMCHEM’s|
right to procedural due process under the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States|
Constitution, and the Constitution of the State of California, and fails to state a cause of|
action upon which either punitive or exemplary damages can be awarded.
FIFTY-FIFTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Punitive Damages Prohibited
This answering defendant alleges that the Complaint, to the extent that it seeks
punitive or exemplary damages, violates AMCHEM’s right to protection from excessive
fines as provided in the Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution and Article I,
Section 17 of the Constitution of the State of California, and violates AMCHEM'’s right to}
substantive due process as provided in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the United|
States and California Constitutions, and thus fails to state a cause of action supporting an|
award of punitive or exemplary damages.
FIFTY-SIXTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Punitive Damages Prohibited
The causes of action asserted herein by plaintiff fail to state facts sufficient to
constitute a cause of action in that plaintiff has asserted claims for punitive damages which,
15
ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOSul
wo emn a
BRYDKIN
Huo & PARKER
135 MAINSTREGT
20" FLOOR
San Francisco, CA 94105
if granted, would violate the prohibition against laws impairing the obligation of contracts|
set forth in Article I, Section 10, of the United States Constitution.
FIFTY-SEVENTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Punitive Damages Prohibited
Plaintiff's claim for punitive or exemplary damages, if any, alleged by Plaintiff is
barred by the “double jeopardy” clause of the Fifth Amendment to the United States|
Constitution, as applied to the States through the Fourteenth Amendment.
FIFTY-EIGHTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Negligent Hiring Claim Invalid
An employee of an independent contractor may not pursue a claim for negligent
hiring against a hirer of the independent contractor. See Camargo v. Tjaarda Dairy, 25 Cal.
4th 1235 (2001).
FIFTY-NINTH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Right to Amend
This defendant will assert any and all additional defenses that arise during the course
of this litigation and reserves the right to amend its answer to assert such defenses.
SIXTIETH AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Alternate Unknown Cause
The alleged injuries and damages, if any, may be in whole or in part due to injury,
disease or cause other than as alleged.
SIXTY-FIRST AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
No Concert of Action
There is no concert of action between defendant and any of the other named
defendants. Defendants are not joint tortfeasors and accordingly, defendant may not be|
held jointly and severally liable with the other named defendants.
SIXTY-SECOND AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE
Plea in Abatement
16
ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOS1 Plaintiff, and each of them, lacks the legal capacity to proceed and maintain this
2 |Jaction and is thereby precluded from any recovery whatsoever as prayed from herein.
3 PRAYER
4 WHEREFORE, this answering defendant prays for judgment as follows:
5 1. That Plaintiff take nothing by reason of their Complaint or any claims stated
6 ||therein;
7 2. That Plaintiffs Complaint and each cause of action contained therein be
8 ||dismissed with prejudice against AMCHEM;
9 3. For costs of suit; and
10
11
12
13 4. For such other and further relief as the Court deems just and appropriate in|
14 || the circumstances.
15
16 ||Dated: August 12, 2010 BRYDON HUGO & PARKER
17
18 By: /s/ John R. Brydon
John R. Brydon
19 George A. Otstott
Attorneys for Defendant
20 BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to
AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC.
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
17
Bryan
AuGo & PARKER |) ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., successor to AMCHEM PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT
oon FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOS
San Francisco, CA 94105Hagen, Laurance
San Francisco County Superior Court Case No. CGC-10-275582
LexisNexis Transaction No. 32645882
PROOF OF SERVICE
lam a resident of the State of California, over the age of 18 years, and not a
party to the within action. My electronic notification address is
service@bhplaw.com and my business address is 135 Main Street, 20' Floor, San
Francisco, California 94105. On the date below, I served the following:
ANSWER OF BAYER CROPSCIENCE, INC., SUCCESSOR TO AMCHEM
PRODUCTS, INC. TO COMPLAINT FOR PERSONAL INJURY - ASBESTOS
on the following:
BRAYTON PURCELL LLP
222 Rush Landing Road
Novato, CA 94945
Fax: (415) 898-1247
AND SEE LEXIS NEXIS SERVICE LIST
xX By transmitting electronically the document(s) listed above as set forth
on the electronic service list on this date before 5:00 p.m.
oo By transmitting via facsimile the document(s) listed above to the fax
number(s) set forth above on this date before 5:00 p.m.
o By placing the document(s) listed above in a sealed envelope and placing
the envelope for collection and mailing on the date below following the
firm’s ordinary business practices. I am readily familiar with the firm’s
practice of collection and processing correspondence for mailing. Under
that practice it would be deposited with U.S. Postal service on the same
day with postage thereon fully prepaid at San Francisco, California in the
ordinary course of business. Tam aware that on motion of party served,
service is presumed invalid if posta
cancellation date or postage meter
date is more than one day after date of deposit for mailing in affidavit.
o By placing the document(s) listed above in a sealed envelope desi
for Federal Express overnight delivery and depositing s ame with fees
thereupon prepaid, in a facility regularly maintained by
addressed as set forth above.
o By causing personal delivery of the Sheva list "above! the
person(s) at the address(es) set forth ape ave.
Executed on August 12, 2010, at San Francis¢o, aN ni
Ne
I declare under penalty of perjury that the "abave vel o and correct
ns An
nated
Federal Express,
4 Melanie Guidry i
PROOF OF SERVICE
‘
Lo?