I was fired for no reason, but i think it was because of complaining about the company's passenger vehicle

Question

I worked for a Boys & Girls Club in Orange County CA, where I’d do the van pick up for our local school. About two months ago during my vehicle inspection I notice that the front tires are balding, so I noted it on the inspection form. I was doing this on and off for about two months; and was told the tires would be changed, but they never where, so on my last inspection (Feb) I noted (balding tires) again on my inspection form; which I submit to my boss (Unit director). A week later I was called into the Executive Directors office and he fired me saying that the club is going in another direction and that I’m not going to be part of it. Do I have a case for wrongfully termination due to complaining about un-safe tires on the company’s 14 passenger vehicles. Thanks for any advise.

Answer 1

Call CHP commercial enforcement. Tell them what happened, and they would be happy to check them out. I used to haul mail for a contracter out of the Post Office. We had very crappy equipment. I refused to drive certain vehicles because they were too bad. I got fired for that. I called CHP commercial enforcement, and they shut the company down within a month. I felt bad that other drivers lost their jobs over it, but at least those death traps are now off the road. The inspector told me they had been trying to get these guys for a long time, but couldn't, because whenever there would be an inspection was always the same time frame that all the drivers were off duty. My phone call is what they needed to bust them. I think the inspectors first name was Dave. I won't put his last name here for his privacy, but I think it starts with a B. Good luck, I hope you can nail them.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, most jobs come with something called an Employment at Will policy. Unless you're a star quarterback for an NFL team, you most likely did not sign an employment contract.

You can be terminated for any reason (or no reason). Just like you can leave for any or no reason. You cannot be fired for certain things, like complaining about harassment.

However, you were complaining about tires. He had every right to terminate you. Doesn't mean it's right, but he has the right.

Answer 3

You have no case. The director likely used another reason for letting you go but you got fired for complaining repeatedly. The head honchos don't like anything put on paper that makes them look bad.
Just remember, in many agencies, the hierarchy is based on the septic tank system. The really big chunks float to the top.

Answer 4

It's worth discussing with an attorney.