Celadon Trucking, an Indianapolis-based company, has just agreed to a $200,000 settlement for a disability discrimination lawsuit filed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
According to the claim, Celadon violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by subjecting applicants for over-the-road trucking positions to medical examinations before making any conditional offers of employment. The ADA specifically prohibits any employers from performing these practices in an attempt to prevent any discrimination against applicants on the ground of disabilities. In a June 30 ruling, Judge Sarah Barker ruled in favor of the EEOC's suit, stating that the examinations in question were unlawful, and that there was sufficient evidence that Celadon unlawfully dismissed at least two qualified class members because of their disabilities.
According to Laurie Young, the regional attorney of the Indianapolis District Office, "the law is clear: Celadon cannot subject applicant drivers to disability-related inquiries and medical examinations without first extending to these applicants a conditional job offer," adding that the company's "policies must conform to the requirements of the ADA." Young says that the settlement has left her and the district satisfied that the public interest will be served, and concluded by saying that she is "confident that the relief obtained will prevent the recurrence of this type of discrimination."
Workplace discrimination is a serious issue. If you believe you've been treated unfairly because of a disability or other issue, submit your claim to the workplace discrimination attorneys here at The Meyers Law Firm. Our staff will review your case and help you determine your best course of action.