5 Americans with Disabilities Act Requirements

According to Congress, disabled individuals historically have received less recourse than victims of other types of discrimination. The Americans with Disabilities Act, sometimes simply referred to as the ADA, was designed to protect disabled individuals from adverse and unfair treatment and to help ensure that they have access to the same opportunities and quality of life as other individuals.

1. Employment

The ADA requires that disabled individuals be treated fairly when seeking employment and forbids the refusal of occupation opportunities solely because a person is handicapped. Employers are not allowed to require people to disclose their disabilities or the degree of their handicap hen they apply for jobs.

Furthermore, a disabled person should only be subjected to a pre-employment medical examination if an offer for a job has been extended, if all other employees are subject to the same examinations, and if the results are treated as confidential medical records.

2. Public Transportation

Providers of public transportation along fixed routes, such as those that operate bus or rail services cannot refuse admission of handicapped individuals. Service areas, such as those found at train stations and bus depots, should be designed to accommodate disabled individuals.

Transportation providers who are expanding or making replacement to their fleets are prohibited from buying or leasing new vehicles that cannot be accessed by people with disabilities.

3. Construction and Renovation

Disabled individuals should have the means to enter the same facilities as other individuals. Newly constructed buildings and modifications to existing facilities should comply with ADA accessibility standards. This includes regulations regarding ramps, railings, and bathrooms.

4. Service and Leisure

It is considered discrimination to deny or limit a person's access to places of leisure such as bars, zoos, or arenas on the grounds of disability. It is also unlawful to deny, limit, or unfairly administer services such as those offered at beauty salons, spas, or restaurants based on handicap.

5. Drinking Fountains

Drinking fountains should be placed at a height which is accessible to both individuals who have difficulty standing and those who have difficulty bending over. At least one compliant fountain should be located along a route where it is accessible to everyone.

Legal Assistance

When American with Disabilities Act requirements are not met or are blatantly ignored, there is legal recourse. If you or someone that you know is victim of discrimination or unfair practices, a disability lawyer should be consulted immediately to ensure that everyone's rights and liberties are protected.