Is there a case for wrongful laid off?

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA

A friend suffered an accident recently and become blind, a month (while he's on Short Term disability) after, his company laid him off.

However, since he's one of the many who's been laid off, this is probably not a viable case for FMLA?

Is there usually some room for negotiation?

Paul

If he would have been laid off had he NOT been on FMLA, he can be laid off WHILE on FMLA.

It is a myth that collecting disability benefits provides job protection. Only FMLA provides job protection, and FMLA only provides protection from being laid off BECAUSE he was on FMLA.

Also, let's be realistic here. Would he have been able to return to work and perform the essential functions of his position? With or without a REASONABLE accomodation?