Disability Claims and Workplace Rights: Understanding the ADA Connection

Workplace protections for individuals with disabilities are essential to ensuring fair treatment and equal opportunity. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) plays a critical role in protecting employees from discrimination and requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations. However, many workers are unsure of what their rights are under the ADA or what to do when they are denied accommodations or treated unfairly.

At Spellen Law, we help individuals navigate the complex intersection of disability and employment law, including what to consider when pursuing a legal claim under the ADA.

What Is the ADA and Who Does It Protect?

The ADA is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in several areas, including employment. Under the ADA, an employee is considered to have a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes conditions such as mobility impairments, chronic illnesses, anxiety disorders, or other medical conditions that affect daily functioning.

Importantly, the ADA protects not only those who currently have a disability but also individuals with a history of disability or those perceived to have a disability.

Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace

Employers covered by the ADA are required to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified employees with disabilities. A reasonable accommodation is a change or adjustment to the work environment or job duties that enables the employee to perform essential functions of the position.

Examples of accommodations may include:

• Modified work schedules

• Remote or hybrid work options

• Ergonomic office equipment

• Additional breaks or rest periods

• Reassignment to a vacant position

Employers are not required to provide an accommodation that would cause significant difficulty or expense, known legally as an “undue hardship.” However, they are required to engage in a good faith, interactive process to explore potential accommodations.

Common Forms of Disability Discrimination

Discrimination based on disability can take many forms in the workplace. Common examples include:

• Termination or demotion after disclosing a disability

• Denial of reasonable accommodations

• Harassment or unfair treatment due to a medical condition

• Retaliation for requesting accommodations or filing a complaint

It is also unlawful for an employer to refuse to hire a qualified applicant solely because of a disability. Discrimination claims often arise when employers make assumptions about a person’s capabilities or future health needs rather than evaluating them based on their performance.

Protecting Your Rights as an Employee

If you believe your rights under the ADA have been violated, taking timely action is important. In many cases, internal company procedures should be followed first, such as submitting a formal request for accommodations or reporting concerns to human resources. Documenting all communication related to your disability and accommodation requests can also be helpful.

Employees have a limited time to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which is often a necessary first step before pursuing legal action. In Alabama, most ADA-related employment claims must be filed with the EEOC within 180 days of the alleged discrimination.

When to Speak With an Attorney

While every case is different, it may be time to speak with an employment attorney if:

• Your employer has denied your request for accommodations without explanation

• You are facing disciplinary action, termination, or harassment after disclosing a disability

• You are unsure of your rights or how to respond to your employer’s actions

An attorney can help you understand whether the ADA applies to your situation, assist with preparing documentation, and guide you through the legal process.

Contact Spellen Law

If you believe your workplace rights have been violated due to a disability, contact Spellen Law for a confidential consultation. We’re here to help you understand your options and protect your future. Call us today at 205-820-9474.