Here’s a look at just how crazy Americans with Disability Act (ADA) cases can get.
The employer prevailed in this one – but it seems probable we’ll see more of these bizarre lawsuits following Congress’ recent loosening of ADA standards with the passage of the ADA Amendments Act.
A doctor in a Chicago hospital learned that he had a cancerous lesion on his hip. He called a friend and said if the cancer was diagnosed as fatal, he was going to kill his boss and several co-workers.
The friend alerted police, who notified the employer. The employer met with the doctor and convinced him to get help. He was in treatment for three months.
But when he returned, although the cancer was under control, the physician still showed signs of paranoia, according to the facility’s in-house shrink.
Based on fears for employee safety, the man was fired. He filed suit, alleging an ADA violation.
His supposed disability: inability to interact with others.
The judge wasn’t buying it. The employer was justified in taking steps to protect its workforce. No disability could trump that.
Cite: Bodenstab v. Cook County
