The Internet is an essential part of daily life. We shop, work, learn, and even socialize online. But for millions of people with disabilities, the digital world can feel like a locked door. That’s where the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) steps in. Originally designed to ensure access to physical spaces, the ADA is now playing a significant role in making sure the digital world is accessible to everyone.

Let’s dive into how ADA lawsuits are shaping the future of the Internet and why this movement towards web accessibility matters for all of us.

Why Web Accessibility Matters

Imagine trying to buy groceries online, book a doctor’s appointment, or read the news—but being unable to do so because the website isn’t accessible. This is the reality for many people with disabilities. Web accessibility aims to remove these barriers, making sure websites are usable by all, whether someone is blind, deaf, has limited mobility, or faces cognitive challenges.

It’s not just about compliance; it’s about creating a better experience for everyone. When websites are more accessible, they’re also more user-friendly. For example, features like closed captions help users with hearing impairments, but they’re also useful for anyone in a noisy environment.

How the ADA Applies to the Digital World

The ADA, passed in 1990, is a law meant to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities. While it initially focused on physical locations, it’s evolved to include digital spaces like websites, mobile apps, and online services.

Title III of the ADA requires “places of public accommodation” to be accessible. While that originally meant places like stores and restaurants, the DOJ published guidance in 2022 confirming its position that the ADA does apply to websites, stating:

“…the Department has consistently taken the position that the ADA’s requirements apply to all the goods, services, privileges, or activities offered by public accommodations, including those offered on the web.”

– U.S. Department of Justice | Guidance on Web Accessibility and the ADA (2022)

This shift is significant because it brings the same standards of accessibility that apply to physical spaces into the digital realm. If a website isn’t accessible, it could violate the ADA—leading to legal action.

Key Lawsuits Driving Change

Several high-profile lawsuits have set important legal precedents for web accessibility, encouraging businesses to prioritize digital inclusivity. Here are some of the most significant cases that have reshaped the digital landscape:

Robles v. Domino’s Pizza (2019)

In 2016, Guillermo Robles, a blind man, sued Domino’s Pizza because he couldn’t use their website or mobile app to order food. Robles relied on screen-reading software, but Domino’s website and app were not compatible with it, making the services inaccessible.

The case went through multiple courts, with Domino’s arguing that the ADA did not clearly apply to websites. However, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed, stating that the ADA does cover websites and apps if they are closely tied to a physical location that serves the public. The U.S.

Supreme Court declined to review the case, effectively affirming the lower court’s ruling. This landmark case established a strong precedent that digital services must be accessible, especially if they’re an extension of a physical business.

Winn-Dixie Stores Inc. v. Gil (2017)

In 2016, Juan Carlos Gil, a blind man who uses screen-reading software, attempted to access the website of the grocery chain Winn-Dixie but found it was incompatible with his software. Unlike Robles v. Domino’s, Winn-Dixie had no functional website components for users to complete transactions online; however, the website did allow users to refill prescriptions, access coupons, and find store locations—services that were considered extensions of its physical stores.

The federal court sided with Gil, ruling that the website’s connection to the physical stores meant it had to comply with ADA requirements. Although the Eleventh Circuit later reversed this decision, arguing that websites themselves are not necessarily “places of public accommodation,” this case still sparked important conversations about digital accessibility. It highlighted that when a website is integral to a business’s services, it must meet accessibility standards.

Bashin v. ReserveCalifornia.com (2023)

Bryan Bashin, a blind user, filed a lawsuit against ReserveCalifornia.com, a state-run site responsible for booking campsites in California’s state parks. Bashin faced numerous challenges while using the website, including unlabelled buttons and forms that his screen reader couldn’t interpret. What made this case unique was that Bashin targeted not just the website itself, but also the state contractor responsible for the website’s development and maintenance.

This lawsuit emphasized the importance of holding government contractors accountable for digital accessibility, setting a new precedent. The court ruled in favor of Bashin, making it clear that not only are government-run websites subject to ADA compliance, but so are third-party developers who manage public websites. This ruling added new pressure on contractors and developers to implement accessibility features from the start, ensuring that websites are built with inclusivity in mind.

Evolving Legal Requirements for Web Accessibility

As the number of ADA lawsuits grows, so do the legal requirements for web accessibility. While there’s no one-size-fits-all standard, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) have become the go-to benchmark. These guidelines are designed to make websites more usable for people with disabilities and cover areas like:

• Text Alternatives: Providing descriptive text for images, videos, and other non-text content.
• Keyboard Accessibility: Ensuring users can navigate sites using only a keyboard.
• Readable Fonts and Color Contrast: Make sure fonts are easy to read, and colors are distinguishable for people with vision impairments.
• Video Captions and Transcripts: Offering captions for videos and transcripts for audio content.

By aligning your website with these guidelines, you reduce the risk of legal challenges and create a better user experience for everyone.

How Businesses Are Adapting

As the legal landscape shifts, many businesses are taking proactive steps to ensure their websites comply with accessibility standards. Here are a few strategies they are employing:

Investing in Training and Resources

Many companies are now training their web development teams on accessibility standards. By understanding the principles of web accessibility, teams can create more inclusive websites from the ground up.

Conducting Accessibility Audits

Regular audits of websites can identify areas needing improvement. Companies are increasingly employing tools and experts to evaluate their sites against WCAG standards. This helps pinpoint issues like missing alt text or improper heading structures.

Integrating Accessibility Features from the Start

More businesses are making accessibility a priority during the design phase. This includes adding features such as keyboard navigation and ensuring that content is structured in an accessible way. By embedding these practices from the beginning, companies can avoid costly retrofits down the line.

Engaging with the Community

Some businesses are partnering with organizations that advocate for individuals with disabilities. By seeking feedback from actual users, they can better understand accessibility challenges and improve their websites accordingly. This not only leads to a better product but also fosters goodwill and loyalty among customers.

Long-Term Implications for the Future of the Internet

The growing emphasis on web accessibility has several long-term implications for the future of the Internet:

Increased Awareness of Inclusivity

As more companies recognize the importance of web accessibility, we will likely see a cultural shift in how businesses approach design and user experience. Prioritizing inclusivity can attract a broader audience and create loyal customers.

Legal Precedents Will Shape Standards

As more ADA lawsuits are filed, legal precedents will increasingly dictate what is considered acceptable in terms of web accessibility. Businesses will need to stay informed about these developments to avoid potential legal pitfalls.

Technological Advancements

The demand for accessible web design will likely spur innovation in technology and tools. We can expect new solutions that simplify the process of making websites accessible, from AI-driven accessibility checkers to improved assistive technologies.

A Culture of Accessibility

As web accessibility becomes a norm, future designers and developers will likely prioritize inclusivity from the outset. This could lead to a more inclusive internet overall, where all users can engage equally.

Conclusion

Web accessibility is reshaping the digital landscape, and it’s clear that the ADA’s influence is paving the way for a more inclusive internet. While compliance with these evolving standards may seem daunting, it’s ultimately about creating a digital environment where everyone can navigate and engage with ease. By enhancing accessibility, you’re not just adhering to legal requirements—you’re fostering a more user-friendly experience for all.

Instead of seeing accessibility as a burden, consider it an opportunity to make your website more welcoming and effective. It’s a chance to lead by example and demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity. If you’re curious about where your website stands, scheduling an ADA briefing with 216digital can be a great first step. Let’s shift the focus from obligation to opportunity, one accessible website at a time.