Hastings v. Trinity Broadcasting of New York, Inc.
Steven M. Hastings sustained serious electric shock injuries in 1998 while working, receiving workers' compensation from his employer, Trinity Broadcasting Network. He later sought additional recovery from Trinity Broadcasting New York and its employee Jeffrey Montanye, alleging the latter caused the accident. Defendants argued the claim was barred by workers' compensation exclusivity, citing an 'alter ego' relationship between Trinity and Network. However, the court found Trinity and Network to be legally separate entities under New York law, thus Trinity could not use Network's workers' compensation defense. Consequently, the defendants' motion for summary judgment was denied, and the plaintiff's cross-motion to dismiss the affirmative defense was granted.