Alexandria Disability Discrimination Lawyer

In 1990, former President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law, which has since protected individuals with disabilities against discrimination in areas of employment, education, transportation, access to public facilities, and all areas of public life. The ADA states that individuals with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations and may hold those who do not follow the requirements accountable for their behavior.

Both federal and state law protects those with disabilities in order for everyone to have a safe and respectful environment. When someone does not provide fair arrangements for those with disabilities or discriminates against an individual with disabilities, the victim has the right to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. If you suffer from disability discrimination, contact The Spiggle Law Firm immediately. Our compassionate and understanding team will offer our advice and guidance on your best legal options and will take the necessary actions to start the process of receiving justice. 

Types of Disabilities Covered By the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Individuals with disabilities are defined as those with a “physical or mental impairment which substantially limits their ability to perform one or more life activities.” They may also either have a record or an impairment or are regarded as currently having an impairment. Acting as a comprehensive law, the ADA protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in various areas and includes the following:

• Intellectual disabilities, including autism and Down syndrome.
• Mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
• Chronic illnesses, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, and epilepsy.
• Mobility impairments, including the inability to use stairs without assistance.
• Vision impairments, such as bad vision and blindness.
• Hearing impairments, such as deafness and hard of hearing.
• Learning disabilities, such as dyslexia and ADHD.
• Physical disabilities, including amputation, paralysis, and chronic pain.
• Neurological disabilities, including multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy.

Not all disabilities are covered in the above list, and it’s important to speak with your Alexandria disability discrimination lawyer about the laws surrounding your disability and the accommodations you are entitled to under the ADA. Even if you have recovered from your disability, if you are still perceived as having one, you are also protected under the ADA.

Understanding Disability Accommodations in Alexandria, Virginia

Backed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Virginians With Disabilities Act (VDA), Virginia’s employers must provide fair arrangements to assist individuals with disabilities with performing the essential functions of their job. Some of these accommodations include:

• Making physical modifications to the workplace or facility
• Modifying work schedules, procedures, or policies
• Providing assistive technology, devices, or services
• Providing accessible training and materials

To request disability modifications in Virginia, individuals must contact the appropriate agency or organization. These may include the Virginia Fair Housing Office for housing accommodations, the Virginia Department of Human Resource Management for employment accommodations, or the U.S. Department of Justice for public accommodations. When accommodation requests are made, it’s crucial that you request documentation of your request. 

Can You Recover Compensation Through a Disability Discrimination Claim?

Since the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law, many individuals with disabilities have been able to receive fair treatment and accessibility in the workplace. With increased access and opportunities, many people enjoy the ability to work and collaborate with those without disabilities. Unfortunately, there are still employers and companies that discriminate and disregard the law.

When a workplace disregards the law and discriminates against you based on your disability or does not provide reasonable accommodations, you may hold them accountable for any physical, mental, or financial losses you suffer. Some of the compensation you recover may include:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental distress
• Medical and treatment costs
• Physical therapy expenses
• Property and equipment damages
• Lost wages or income
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Not only can discrimination and a lack of accommodations be mentally draining and painful, but they also can cause physical injuries. For example, if a coworker damages an accommodation and you suffer injuries due to their manipulation, you may recover monetary compensation for your medical transportation and fees. Speak with your Alexandria disability discrimination attorney about the behavior and learn more about the specifics of your case. 

Contact an Experienced Alexandria Disability Discrimination Lawyer Today

The Spiggle Law Firm has years of experience fighting for and protecting clients from unlawful and discriminatory behavior and actions in Virginia workplaces. Having a disability in the workplace should never result in discrimination or serious challenges. Federal and state law ensures those with disabilities are protected, and if an employer or other individual goes against these, you have the right to seek legal action. Our team offers a “Same Page Guarantee” to ensure our clients’ needs and concerns are understood and communicated. 

To learn more about your rights and options, speak with one of our Alexandria disability discrimination attorneys by calling (202) 449-8527 or completing our contact form on our website today.