Is Your Employer Delaying Your ADA Accommodation? Know Your Rights and Take Action

At WorkRight Law, APC, we are dedicated to protecting employees’ rights, especially when it comes to workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A recent decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit underscores the importance of timely employer responses to accommodation requests.

Key Takeaways from the Fifth Circuit’s Decision

In the case of Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Methodist Hospitals of Dallas, No. 17-10539 (5th Cir. 2023), the court examined whether an employer’s delayed response to an employee’s accommodation request constituted a violation of the ADA. The court emphasized that:

• Employers are obligated to engage in a timely, good-faith interactive process with employees who request accommodations.

• Unreasonable delays in responding to accommodation requests can be considered a failure to accommodate under the ADA.

• Both employers and employees share responsibility in the interactive process; however, employers must not use delays as a tactic to avoid providing necessary accommodations.

Understanding Your Rights Under the ADA

If you have a disability and require accommodations at work, you are entitled to:

1. Request Reasonable Accommodations: This can include modifications to your work environment, schedule adjustments, or assistive technologies.

2. Engage in an Interactive Process: Your employer must work with you to identify and implement appropriate accommodations.

3. Receive Timely Responses: Employers should not unreasonably delay responding to your accommodation requests.

When to Seek Legal Assistance

If you experience any of the following, it may be time to consult with an attorney:

• Your employer ignores or delays responding to your accommodation request.

• You face retaliation after requesting an accommodation.

• Your employer denies your request without a valid reason or fails to engage in the interactive process.

WorkRight Law, APC Is Here to Help

Our firm specializes in employment law and is committed to ensuring that employees receive the accommodations they are entitled to under the ADA. We offer:

• Free Consultations: Discuss your situation with our experienced attorneys at no cost.

• Personalized Legal Strategies: We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and circumstances.

• Dedicated Advocacy: We fight to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact us today. Don’t let employer delays compromise your rights. Reach out to WorkRight Law, APC, to ensure your voice is heard and your needs are met.

• Phone: (562) 760-8803

• Email: fightback@workrightlaw.com

• Website: www.workrightlaw.com

Your rights matter. Let us help you stand up for them.

Legal References:

• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Methodist Hospitals of Dallas, No. 17-10539 (5th Cir. 2023)

• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please contact WorkRight Law, APC.