Reasonable Accommodations for Primary Caregivers

Q: My son has a disability. The place where I work has me park my car about 3 miles away and ride a shuttle into work. This has significantly restricted my ability to get to my car quickly should an emergency arise with my disabled son. I have brought it up several times with human resources that it is imperative I have quick and complete access to my car for getting to my son. What recourse do I have? Do they need to accommodate me?

A: A person who is a primary caregiver to a person with a disability would not be eligible for a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Title I protections are for the employee or applicant with a disability who may need an accommodation so that they can effectively work and perform their essential job functions. Title I does not extend to cover family members with disability related needs.