How do I determine if my disability qualifies for protection under the ADA?

In order to determine whether your disability qualifies for protection under the ADA in Virginia, you must first consider whether your disability falls under the ADA’s definition of “disability.” The ADA defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, or having a record of such an impairment, or being regarded as having such an impairment. It is important to recognize that the law does not provide protection for all disabilities. In order to be covered, your disability must be considered a “substantial” limitation. To determine this, you will need to consider how much the disability affects your ability to complete major life activities, such as eating, sleeping, caring for oneself, learning, walking, talking, and working. If your disability significantly impacts your ability to do these activities, it may qualify as a disability. Another factor to consider is whether your disability falls into a category of disabilities that are specifically protected under the law. This includes, among others, blindness, deafness, intellectual disabilities, and developmental disabilities. Additionally, if you have a history of a disability or are regarded as having a disability, you may also be protected under the ADA. This means that even if you have a disability that is not considered a “substantial limitation,” or you do not fall into a category of protected disabilities, you may still be protected if an employer or other entity regards you as having a disability. It is important to note that the law does not provide an exhaustive list of disabilities that qualify for protection, and it may be difficult to definitively determine whether you are covered under the ADA. If you believe that your disability may qualify for protection, it is a good idea to consult an experienced disability attorney in Virginia who can help you understand your rights and determine whether you are covered under the ADA.

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