His sworn statements to the SSA about being unable to work proved fatal in court
A truck driver's own disability benefits application torpedoed his ADA discrimination lawsuit against his employer, a federal appeals court ruled.
The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals on April 9, 2026, sided with Trimac Transportation, Inc., affirming summary judgment on disability discrimination, hostile work environment, retaliation, and wrongful termination claims brought by Jason Schmit, a former truck driver who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease while employed at the company's Rapid City, South Dakota terminal.
The case carries a pointed reminder for HR teams navigating the accommodation process: what employees say to one government agency can come back to haunt them in court – and careful documentation along the way can make all the difference for employers.
Schmit worked for Trimac from May 2017 to August 2021. After his Parkinson's diagnosis in December 2018, Trimac informally adjusted his duties. He was assigned to haul rock and coal, which spared him from climbing ladders or handling hoses. His trailer was washed out by a third-party service after each trip. He worked a five-day week ending by 1:00 p.m. each day, and he could "haul light" – transporting 117,000 pounds or less – when he wasn't feeling well.
Things shifted in March 2021 when Trimac brought in Gene Williams as the new Rapid City terminal manager. Williams contacted HR about Schmit's disability and the limited amount...
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