Job interviews should focus on your qualifications, skills, and ability to perform the role—not on personal characteristics like your vision impairment. Unfortunately, many individuals with vision impairments still face inappropriate and illegal questions during the hiring process. If you’ve experienced this type of discrimination in New York, it’s crucial to understand your rights and take action.
Vision Impairment and Legal Protections Under the ADA
Vision impairment, including blindness, affects over 20 million Americans and is considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals with disabilities, including during the interview process. Employers are required to focus on whether a candidate can perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodations—not their medical condition.
Despite these protections, inappropriate interview questions about visual impairment remain a common issue. Examples include:
- “How much can you see?”
- “Can you even use a computer?”
- “Are you able to get to work by yourself?”
These types of questions are not only inappropriate but also illegal if they probe into your disability without being job-related.
Appropriate vs. Inappropriate Job Interview Questions
Employers can ask whether you are able to perform specific job functions but cannot directly ask about your disability. For example, it’s appropriate to ask:
- “Are you comfortable using the required technology for this role?”
- “This job requires frequent travel; are you able to fulfill this requirement?”
In contrast, it is inappropriate to ask:
- “What caused your vision impairment?”
- “How will your disability affect your performance?”
- “Do you think your blindness will slow down the team?”
These types of questions cross the line into disability discrimination.
Recognizing Disability Discrimination
Discrimination goes beyond inappropriate questions during the interview. Employers may also demonstrate bias through:
- Denying reasonable accommodations.
- Refusing to hire you based on your vision impairment.
- Terminating employment once they learn about your disability.
If you’ve experienced any of these issues, you may be a victim of discrimination under the ADA.
How to Fight Back Against Disability Discrimination
If you believe you’ve been asked inappropriate questions about your vision impairment or have faced other forms of discrimination, consult a trusted lawyer immediately. Legal representation is critical to protecting your rights and holding employers accountable.
An experienced disability discrimination lawyer can help you:
- Evaluate the details of your case.
- File a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
- Negotiate with your employer or represent you in court if necessary.
Partner with Gash & Associates, P.C.
If you’re in New York and have faced discrimination, Gash & Associates, P.C. can help you navigate your options and pursue justice. Their experienced attorneys are dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive fair treatment in the workplace.
Don’t let inappropriate questions about your vision impairment hold you back. Reach out to a trusted legal team to protect your future.