Hoffman v. Trinity Industries, Inc.
Edward Hoffman, an employee of Technical Resources, Inc. (TRI) leased to Trinity Industries, Inc. (Trinity), sued Trinity for negligence after an on-the-job injury. Trinity moved for summary judgment, arguing that Hoffman was its employee under either the dual employer or borrowed servant doctrine, which would make workers' compensation Hoffman's exclusive remedy. The core dispute revolved around a contract stating TRI's employees were not Trinity's and TRI maintained sole control. The appellate court determined this contract raised a genuine issue of material fact regarding Hoffman's employment status under both theories. Consequently, the court reversed the summary judgment granted to Trinity and remanded the case for further proceedings.