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  • The Accessibility Lawsuit Trend No One’s Talking About

    In 2025, the world of digital accessibility is more complicated and urgent than ever. Lawsuits over website accessibility are on the rise, and they are changing in ways many businesses haven’t prepared for. In the past, companies would run automated scans and assume they were safe. But a troubling new trend has emerged. Plaintiffs are now basing their legal cases on problems that only show up through manual audits. If your website is relying on automated checks alone, you could be at serious legal risk. This article explains why this shift is happening, how automated scans fall short, and what you can do right now to stay ahead.

    Why Automated Scans Are No Longer Enough

    Over the years, many accessibility lawsuits pointed to errors found by automated tools. These tools check for missing alt text on images, low color contrast, and other basic issues. But today, plaintiffs’ lawyers and accessibility consultants are using manual audits to find deeper barriers. They test how a site really works for someone with a disability. They check if a keyboard-only user can reach all parts of a form, or if a screen reader can make sense of the menu. These tests go beyond surface-level coding problems.

    Now, many businesses find themselves sued even though they passed automated scans. Plaintiffs’ experts show detailed reports from manual audits to prove real-life barriers. Lawyers and judges are giving more weight to these reports, which show that a site may look fine to the naked eye but still fail to support people with disabilities. If businesses don’t adjust, they could face serious legal costs and brand damage.

    The Problem with Automated Scans

    Automated scans still have their place. They’re great for catching low-hanging fruit like missing alt attributes or basic color contrast issues. However, they’re just one piece of the accessibility puzzle. Here are a few examples:

    Contextual Understanding

    Tools can’t interpret how a page flows from one element to another or whether a user’s journey makes sense. For instance, an automated tool might confirm that a button has a label. But it won’t confirm if that label makes sense in context—for example, “Click Here” might be flagged as accessible by an automated tool but provides zero context to screen readers.

    Dynamic Interactive Elements

    If your site has pop-ups, carousels, or complex menus, automated scans might not catch when these elements create focus issues. A user relying on keyboard navigation might get stuck or lose track of where they are on the page.

    Human Navigation Patterns

    Real users might try multiple paths to accomplish tasks, like making a purchase or filling out a form. Automated tools generally test code in a linear fashion, missing real-world usage patterns.

    Advanced ARIA Techniques

    ARIA can help screen readers identify custom elements (like drop-downs, tabs, or modals). However, it must be implemented correctly. An automated tool might only check if ARIA attributes exist, not if they are used correctly.

    Recent Case Examples Where Automated Scans Failed

    Several businesses have learned this lesson the hard way. Although you might read about them in publications like The Wall Street Journal, three notable examples include:

    Kramer Knives

    A small business specializing in handcrafted knives faced a lawsuit from a visually impaired plaintiff. Kramer Knives believed they were compliant because an automated scan showed few errors. However, manual testing uncovered keyboard navigation issues and unclear labels, resulting in legal action.

    Electric Bike Technologies

    This e-commerce business was sued for alleged inaccessibility after a plaintiff discovered barriers during manual testing. The automated scans the company had relied on were insufficient, as they didn’t catch certain interactive elements that weren’t accessible to screen readers.

    Extract Labs

    This CBD and cannabinoid products seller thought their high automated score meant they were safe. However, manual audits found significant barriers—like form fields that weren’t properly labeled and pop-up modals that trapped keyboard focus—leading to a lawsuit.

    In each instance, the businesses thought they were protected. But what they missed—those deeper, functional issues—still made their sites inaccessible to real users and vulnerable in court.

    How This Shift Could Activate a Wave of Accessibility Lawsuits in 2025

    More Lawsuits, More Targets

    Since manual audits reveal issues that automated scans ignore, it’s easier than ever for plaintiffs to build a strong legal case. E-commerce stores, healthcare websites, and travel booking sites are especially vulnerable. Their complex forms and interactive features may pass an automated check but fail real-world testing.

    The Rise of Copycat Lawsuits

    Accessibility lawsuits now follow a pattern. According to recent statistics, 41% of federal court lawsuits in 2024 targeted businesses that had already been sued before. Plaintiffs’ law firms reuse winning strategies again and again. Once they find a successful argument, they apply it to many businesses across different industries. Small businesses without in-house accessibility knowledge become prime targets. They often settle quickly to avoid higher legal costs, which makes them even more attractive to plaintiffs. These copycat lawsuits can destroy a business’s reputation and finances.

    What Website Owners Need to Do Now

    Going Beyond Automated Scans

    It’s clear that if your only strategy is running an automated scan, you’re leaving yourself wide open. You need a multi-layered approach that combines automated scanning with manual audits for a complete look at your site. Manual audits test your website in the same way real users do. 

    Testers try to navigate using only a keyboard, or with a screen reader, or with special settings to assist low vision. This approach catches hidden barriers that an automated check will never see. If possible, individuals with disabilities should be involved in testing. Their feedback is invaluable because it reflects real-world challenges that neither a tool nor a developer might anticipate.

    Creating a Proactive Accessibility Strategy

    If you want to stay off a plaintiff’s radar, or at least have a strong defense if sued, take these steps:

    Conduct a Full Accessibility Audit

    Start with an initial assessment that combines automated tools and manual audits. Identify all major barriers to accessibility on your site.

    Remediate the Issues

    Fix the problems uncovered by your audit. This might involve updating code, redesigning certain elements for better contrast and clarity, or rethinking how your site’s navigation is structured.

    Implement Ongoing Monitoring

    Accessibility isn’t a “set it and forget it” project. Every time you add a new product, page, or feature, you could introduce new barriers. Schedule periodic reviews, both automated and manual or sign up for monitoring services like Accessibility Radar (a11y.Radar).

    Train Your Team

    Developers, designers, content writers—everyone on your team should know the basics of accessibility. Make sure they understand how to write alt text, use headings properly, and maintain keyboard-friendly navigation.

    How 216digital Can Help

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. It’s a big task to ensure your website is fully accessible, especially if you’re new to web accessibility. At 216digital, we focus on making accessibility practical and achievable for businesses of all sizes.

    Our experts will test your website the way actual users do. We don’t just point out problems. We help you fix them for the long run. Whether your site needs design tweaks, code adjustments, or content changes, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

    We don’t stop there. Accessibility standards change, and we stay on top of new guidelines. We provide ongoing support to make sure your site remains accessible. By combining automated scans with manual audits, our team delivers a full view of your accessibility status.

    Take Action Today

    Many business owners don’t think about website accessibility until they get served a lawsuit. By then, it may be too late. The better plan is to act now. Start with a thorough assessment and fix any barriers before a plaintiff turns them into a legal case. If you wait, you could face serious penalties, legal fees, and harm to your brand.

    To stay protected, schedule a free accessibility risk assessment with 216digital. Our team will show you how manual audits can spot hidden barriers, and we’ll guide you on how to fix them. Avoid the growing wave of lawsuits by making your site accessible today. After all, equal access is not just a legal issue—it’s the right thing to do for your customers and your business.

    Remember: automated scans are no longer enough. By embracing manual audits, you can protect your business, serve your customers better, and stay on the right side of the law. Don’t wait until you become the next lawsuit headline. Act now and secure your place as a leader in digital accessibility.

    Greg McNeil

    February 5, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    2025, Accessibility, Accessibility Audit, Accessibility testing, ADA Lawsuit, manual audit, Manual Testing, Web Accessibility
  • Why ADA Lawsuits Will Continue to Rise in 2025

    The number of lawsuits filed under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has steadily increased over the past decade, and this trend is expected to continue in 2025. Businesses of all sizes, particularly those operating in the digital space, will likely face heightened scrutiny regarding their accessibility practices. Several key factors contribute to the continued rise in ADA lawsuits, from growing awareness of accessibility rights to the expanding scope of digital accessibility challenges. Understanding these drivers can help businesses proactively approach compliance and risk mitigation.

    1. Growing Awareness of Accessibility Rights

    One of the most significant reasons behind the rise in ADA lawsuits is the increasing awareness of accessibility rights among individuals with disabilities. As digital accessibility advocacy gains momentum, more users are recognizing their right to equal access to websites, mobile apps, and other online platforms. Organizations such as the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and the American Council of the Blind (ACB) continue to push for more stringent enforcement of accessibility laws, empowering individuals to take legal action when they encounter barriers.

    Additionally, social media and digital forums provide platforms for users to share their experiences, amplifying the conversation around accessibility. As more individuals demand equal access to digital spaces, businesses that fail to comply with accessibility standards will become increasingly vulnerable to lawsuits.

    2. The Rapid Expansion of Digital Technologies

    The explosion of digital technologies, particularly in e-commerce and online services, has introduced new accessibility challenges. Many businesses are rushing to implement AI-driven interfaces, chatbots, and complex navigation structures without considering how these innovations impact users with disabilities. Common accessibility barriers include:

    • Poor screen reader compatibility
    • Inaccessible forms and checkout processes
    • Missing or inadequate alt text for images
    • Lack of keyboard navigability
    • Videos without captions or transcripts

    As businesses expand their digital footprints, accessibility must be a central consideration. However, many companies neglect to prioritize accessibility during development, leaving them exposed to potential litigation.

    3. Legal Precedents and Heightened Enforcement Trends

    In recent years, landmark ADA lawsuits have set powerful legal precedents, further fueling the rise in litigation. Cases like Robles v. Domino’s Pizza and Gil v. Winn-Dixie have reinforced that digital accessibility falls under the scope of the ADA. These rulings have emboldened individuals and advocacy groups to pursue legal action when accessibility barriers persist.

    At the same time, regulatory bodies are stepping up their enforcement efforts. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued more explicit guidance on digital accessibility compliance, signaling that noncompliance will not be tolerated. With federal and state regulators increasing their scrutiny, businesses that ignore accessibility requirements risk facing significant legal and financial consequences.

    4. The Impact of Accessibility Testing Tools

    The evolution of accessibility testing tools makes identifying noncompliance easier than ever. Automated scanners, AI-driven auditing platforms, and real-world testing methods are providing users, advocacy groups, and legal professionals with concrete evidence of accessibility violations.

    Tools such as WAVE, Google Lighthouse, and a11y.Radar enables quick and comprehensive assessments of digital properties. As these tools become more sophisticated and widely adopted, businesses that neglect accessibility will find it increasingly difficult to claim ignorance of their obligations. The ability to quickly identify accessibility failures means that potential plaintiffs have more substantial cases, further driving the volume of ADA lawsuits.

    5. The Demand for Proactive Accessibility Compliance

    With rising legal risks, businesses can no longer afford a reactive approach to accessibility. A growing number of organizations are recognizing the need for proactive accessibility strategies, including:

    • Regular accessibility audits
    • Compliance monitoring
    • Employee training on digital accessibility
    • Partnering with accessibility experts for remediation

    Despite these efforts, many businesses still fall short due to a lack of knowledge or investment in accessibility initiatives. Those who fail to take proactive steps will face legal repercussions as accessibility enforcement intensifies.

    The Time to Act on Accessibility Is Now

    ADA lawsuits are projected to rise in 2025 due to growing awareness, digital expansion, legal precedents, and enhanced enforcement. Businesses must recognize that accessibility is not just a legal obligation but also a cornerstone of inclusivity and user experience. By taking a proactive approach to accessibility compliance, organizations can mitigate legal risks, boost customer satisfaction, and contribute to a more accessible digital world.

    Now more than ever, it’s crucial for businesses to prioritize accessibility. Those who fail to do so risk costly lawsuits and miss the opportunity to build a more inclusive and equitable online presence. The time to act is now—and 216digital is here to help. Our team understands the complexities of ADA compliance and can guide you through every step of making your website accessible to all users. Contact 216digital today to learn how we can support your organization’s accessibility initiatives and help you stay ahead of rising ADA enforcement in 2025.

    Greg McNeil

    January 31, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    2025, ADA Compliance, ADA Lawsuit, ADA Lawsuits, ADA Website Compliance, web accessibility lawsuits
  • 2025 Web Accessibility Standards & Requirements

    The digital world is changing fast, and the 2025 ADA web accessibility standards are right around the corner. For public entities and businesses, the countdown to compliance has begun. But this isn’t just about ticking legal boxes—it’s a chance to create online spaces that everyone can access and enjoy.

    From keeping track of important compliance dates to navigating global standards like the European Accessibility Act, this guide has everything you need to stay ahead. Whether you’re running a local government site or a growing business, you’ll find actionable steps to get your website up to date with the latest accessibility standards. Let’s break it all down so you can be prepared for what’s coming.

    Key Dates for Compliance

    Staying on top of the timeline is crucial for meeting the new ADA Title II accessibility standards. Here’s the scoop on the most important deadlines for public entities:

    • April 24, 2026: Public entities in cities or counties with 50,000 or more residents must comply with the updated standards.
    • April 24, 2027: Smaller public entities—those in areas with fewer than 50,000 people—have an extra year to meet these same requirements.

    What Public Entities Should Focus On

    Public entities include everything from state and local governments to public schools, libraries, and other essential services. For these organizations, accessibility isn’t optional—it’s a must. That means ensuring your website works seamlessly with assistive technologies like screen readers, providing alternative text for images, and offering captions on video content.

    Why Meeting These Deadlines Matters

    Missing these deadlines isn’t just a bad look—it can lead to lawsuits and a loss of trust in your community. ADA lawsuits targeting government websites are on the rise, often flagging accessibility gaps that make it hard for users with disabilities to access essential services.

    Don’t Forget Global Accessibility Standards

    If your business operates internationally or even just ships products overseas, you’ll also need to think about global accessibility laws. Standards like the European Accessibility Act (EAA) and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) could apply to you, even if your business is based in the U.S.

    • European Accessibility Act (EAA): Takes effect on June 28, 2025. Similar to the ADA, it requires accessible websites, apps, and digital services across the European Union.
    • Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA): Applies to organizations in Ontario or those serving Canadian users. Emphasizes WCAG standards, with compliance starting January 1, 2025.

    Ignoring these global laws can lead to fines or legal challenges, so keep them in mind if your reach extends beyond the U.S.

    What’s New in the 2025 Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

    The 2025 ADA updates focus on making websites easier for everyone to use, especially as technology keeps evolving. At the heart of these changes is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2, developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).

    Here’s what’s new:

    • WCAG 2.2 Integration: The updated accessibility standards now include criteria for making websites more accessible on mobile devices, easier for people with cognitive disabilities, and generally more user-friendly.
    • Assistive Technology Compatibility: Websites need to work smoothly with tools like screen readers and voice recognition software.
    • Mobile Accessibility: With more people using phones and tablets, sites must be fully functional on smaller screens.
    • Video Accessibility: There’s a bigger focus on captions, audio descriptions, and media players that everyone can use.

    These updates aren’t just about staying out of court; they’re about building an inclusive online environment. For instance, captions on videos don’t just help users with hearing impairments—they also benefit anyone viewing in a noisy place.

    The Cost of Ignoring Compliance

    Noncompliance comes with serious risks. In 2024 alone, over 4,000 ADA lawsuits were filed in the U.S. Many stemmed from missing alt text, lack of keyboard navigation, or poor color contrast.

    Copycat Lawsuits

    A worrying trend is the rise of copycat lawsuits: about 41% of 2024’s accessibility lawsuits targeted companies that had already been sued before. These repeat lawsuits happen when businesses fix only part of their accessibility issues, leaving gaps that new plaintiffs exploit. Often, the same websites, related brands, or even parent companies become repeated targets, creating a cycle of litigation that can be difficult to escape.

    The Cost of Noncompliance

    Legal fees, settlements, and potential fines add up quickly, with smaller organizations often feeling the strain the most. Defending even one lawsuit can cost tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the complexity of the claims. For businesses with unresolved accessibility gaps, these lawsuits not only bring immediate costs but also invite ongoing legal scrutiny, making comprehensive compliance efforts critical to long-term risk management.

    Steps to Ensure Compliance

    Achieving compliance with the 2025 accessibility standards may seem daunting, but with a structured approach, it’s manageable. By taking proactive steps, you can stay ahead of the curve:

    Meeting the 2025 standards might seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s absolutely doable:

    1. Audit Your Website: Use tools to catch common accessibility issues, but don’t skip manual checks for things like focus indicators or smooth screen reader navigation.
    2. Train Your Team: Make sure everyone—from developers to content creators—understands accessibility guidelines.
    3. Implement Updates: Prioritize fixes like alternative text for images and keyboard navigation improvements.
    4. Monitoring: Accessibility isn’t a one-and-done thing. Regular updates and monitoring are essential.

    Overcoming Challenges in Achieving Compliance

    Even with clear guidelines, reaching full accessibility can be tough. A major hurdle lies in understanding the full scope of accessibility requirements. Automated tools often overlook hidden barriers, and smaller organizations may not have the resources or expertise to do a deep dive on every aspect of their site. Legacy systems could add in another wrinkle: retrofitting older platforms for accessibility can be time-consuming and costly.

    That’s where partnering with accessibility experts like 216digital can make all the difference. We offer custom audits, expert training, and ongoing monitoring with tools like a11y.Radar, helping you build a sustainable compliance strategy.

    It’s Time to Act

    With the 2025 deadlines on the horizon, there’s no better time to get started. Sure, it might feel daunting at first, but making your online experience accessible to everyone brings long-term benefits for both your users and your brand. It’s not just about dodging lawsuits—it’s about doing the right thing.

    By taking steps now—especially if your deadline is 2026 or just around the corner—you’ll save yourself time, money, and stress down the road. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, consider chatting with accessibility experts or scheduling a consultation with 216digital. Let’s work together to ensure your website is a place where everyone feels welcome and empowered.

    Greg McNeil

    January 7, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    2025, accessibility laws, ADA Compliance, EAA, International Accessibility Laws, WCAG
  • Accessibility in 2025: Why Web Accessibility Can’t Wait

    These days, the internet is part of almost everything we do. Whether you’re shopping, learning, or connecting, the web matters. But what happens when some people can’t access your website in 2025? If your site isn’t built for everyone, think about the message that it sends.

    In 2025, ignoring accessibility isn’t just risky—it’s neglectful. It can also lead to hefty legal issues. How many possible customers are you losing because your site doesn’t work for them? And how much would a lawsuit cost, both financially and in lost reputation? Accessibility isn’t just another box to check. It’s a responsibility we all share. If you’re still waiting to act, ask yourself: why the delay?

    Evolving Accessibility Standards in 2025

    Web accessibility has come a long way. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) from W3C offer a reliable framework. These guidelines cover how to make digital spaces work for everyone, including people with disabilities.

    By 2025, updates like WCAG 2.2 and the emerging WCAG 3.0 raise the bar further. These updates include new mobile standards, improved focus indicators, and better support for cognitive disabilities. By following these evolving standards, you’ll build a site that truly serves every user.

    Government Enforcement and Legal Implications

    Governments around the world are getting stricter about accessibility. In the U.S., Title II of the ADA now places stronger requirements on public entities. These rules will roll out in April 2026 and 2027, creating clear deadlines for compliance.

    Meanwhile, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) takes full effect by June 28, 2025. This law applies to public institutions and private businesses, including e-commerce and financial services. Non-compliance could land you in legal trouble and damage your reputation. Adapting to these rules isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about making sure everyone can use what you offer.

    Accessibility as a Business Imperative

    Many businesses don’t realize how much accessibility can affect their bottom line. The truth is that investing in accessibility is a wise move.

    Legal Implications

    By 2025, lawsuits about inaccessible websites are becoming more common. In 2024 alone, there were over 4,000 ADA lawsuits in the U.S. That number highlights a growing push for compliance. One unfortunate trend is “copycat” lawsuits, where 41% of 2024’s cases targeted businesses with previous noncompliance.

    Settlements can run anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000, not counting legal fees. Worse still, your public image may take a hit that’s hard to fix. Courts have made it plain: websites must be accessible. If you ignore these requirements, you could be facing big legal bills and a tarnished reputation.

    Market Potential in 2025

    Accessibility isn’t just about avoiding risks. It also opens the door to millions of new customers. About 15% of the world’s population has some form of disability. Add older adults who benefit from clear, easy-to-use sites, and you’ve got an even bigger market.

    In the U.S. alone, people over 50 drive more than $8 trillion in economic activity each year, according to AARP. That’s huge, and it’s only growing as our population ages. Making your site accessible also boosts SEO and discoverability. This helps everyone, not just those with specific disabilities.

    Competitive Advantage

    If two companies offer the same service, but one has a user-friendly website, guess who wins? Accessibility sets you apart. It shows you respect and value every customer, building trust in your brand. In 2025, that might be the difference between thriving and floundering.

    An accessible site also signals that your brand is forward-thinking and inclusive. Many customers care about companies that “walk the talk” on social issues. By putting accessibility first, you position yourself as an industry leader.

    Challenges and Misconceptions

    Some organizations stall on accessibility because they think it’s too pricey or too complicated. Others believe quick fixes, like overlays, will solve everything. These myths can hold your business back.

    The Myth of Overlays

    Overlays promise one-click solutions, but they often cause more harm than good. They can break your website’s functionality or confuse users of assistive technologies. Sometimes, they even block screen readers or tangle up navigation.

    They also don’t meet many legal requirements, leaving you open to lawsuits. True accessibility needs mindful design, thorough testing, and a commitment to ongoing improvements—no shortcuts allowed.

    For more information on the harm of screen overlays, check out the Overlay Fact Sheet. 

    Fear of Cost

    Yes, accessibility takes time and resources. But it doesn’t have to ruin your budget. Start small by fixing the biggest barriers on your site. Simple changes—like adding alt text or improving color contrast—can make a huge impact.

    In the U.S., businesses can also use the Disabled Access Credit for accessibility expenses. Over time, small steps lead to big changes. You’ll build a more inclusive online presence and reduce the risk of costly legal battles.

    The Role of Technology in Accessibility

    Fortunately, technology is making accessibility easier. In 2025, AI-driven tools can help identify issues quickly. Popular tests, like Google Lighthouse or WAVE, flag areas that need improvement.

    Assistive technologies are also evolving. Screen readers and voice recognition software are getting smarter. However, technology alone can’t solve everything. You must understand your users and design with their needs in mind. That human-centered approach makes your website better for all.

    Practical Steps to Get Started in 2025

    Worried your website isn’t accessible yet? Don’t panic. You can start today:

    1. Conduct an Audit: Use tools like Google Lighthouse or hire an expert to identify issues on your site.
    2. Fix High-Impact Problems: Start with basics like adding alt text, improving keyboard navigation, and fixing color contrast.
    3. Build Accessibility Into Your Workflow: Make accessibility a part of every project, from design to development.
    4. Seek Help When Needed: Partner with accessibility experts to guide your efforts and ensure long-term success.

    Maintain and Monitor Accessibility

    Remember, accessibility is a journey, not a one-time fix. Keep track of updates and new content to ensure they don’t add barriers—tools like Accessibility Radar (a11y.Radar) help you watch your site’s accessibility over time. By staying proactive, you’ll keep your site usable for everyone.

    Looking Ahead: The Future of Accessibility

    In 2025, you can’t afford to ignore accessibility. It’s crucial for growth, legal compliance, and being a decent digital citizen. When you make your site accessible, you open your business to more customers, strengthen your brand, and help create a fairer online world.

    Don’t wait for a lawsuit or a complaint to spur action. Start now. Conduct an audit, fix any issues you find, and commit to continuous improvement. If you need help, companies like 216digital are ready to guide you. Together, let’s build a web that works for everyone.

    Greg McNeil

    January 2, 2025
    The Benefits of Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Remediation
    2025, Accessibility, ADA Compliance, New Year's Resolution, Web Accessibility
  • Why Website Accessibility Should Your New Year’s Resolution

    As each New Year begins, we all look for ways to improve. Some people aim to eat healthier or learn a new skill. Others plan to grow their business or find new ways to help their community. This year, consider making website accessibility your top goal. By doing so, you can help create a more inclusive online experience while also boosting your company’s success. In this article, we will look at why website accessibility matters, how it helps your business, and what steps you can take to get started.

    What Is Website Accessibility?

    When people talk about website accessibility, they are talking about making sure that everyone can use a website. This means people who are blind, have low vision, are deaf, have hearing loss, or have other disabilities. For example, many users rely on screen readers to read text out loud if they cannot see the screen well. Others may navigate only with a keyboard if they have trouble using a mouse.

    Making your site accessible helps all users find the information they need. It also shows that you respect and value every visitor. Most importantly, it creates an inclusive online space where everyone can participate.

    Why Focus on Website Accessibility?

    Inclusivity

    One main reason to focus on website accessibility is to make sure people with disabilities have the same chances as everyone else. It can feel frustrating when someone cannot use a website because images don’t have text descriptions or the site requires the user to click small buttons they can’t see. By updating your site to be accessible, you send a message that you care about all visitors.

    Better User Experience

    Another reason to care about website accessibility is that it improves the user experience for everyone. For example, providing clear and simple navigation helps people with vision or mobility issues. But it also allows users on mobile phones who want easy buttons and menus. By making your site clear, organized, and simple, you help all visitors find what they need faster.

    Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

    Many of the steps you take to improve website accessibility also make your site more search-engine friendly. Search engines like Google look for well-structured content, headings, and alternative text for images. These are the same features that help people who use screen readers. As a result, when you improve your site’s accessibility, you can also see a boost in your SEO. This can lead to more site visitors and potential customers.

    Avoiding Legal Risks

    In some places, it is the law that businesses must make reasonable efforts to ensure website accessibility. If a site is inaccessible, there could be legal consequences, such as lawsuits or fines. By taking the time to keep your site accessible, you protect your business from these risks.

    Future-Proofing Your Website

    Staying on top of website accessibility helps future-proof your site as technology changes. When new devices or tools come out, users with disabilities may rely on them to access the web. A site that follows best practices for accessibility will likely work well with new devices and software.

    Steps for Getting Started with Website Accessibility

    1. Conduct an Accessibility Audit

    A good place to start with website accessibility is to run an accessibility audit. This can show you where your site is working well and where you need to improve. You can use online tools like WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool or Google Lighthouse to scan your web pages. These tools will point out errors, like missing image text or poor color contrast.

    • Check for Alt Text: One of the first things these tools look for is alt text for images. This text should describe the image so that people using screen readers know what it shows.
    • Inspect Headings: Proper headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.) make it easier for users and search engines to understand your content. They also help screen readers tell listeners what section of the page they’re on.

    2. Improve Color Contrast

    Many people have trouble reading text if the colors do not have enough contrast. For instance, gray text on a white background can be hard to see, even for people without vision disabilities. Try using a tool like WebAIM’s Color Contrast Checker to make sure your text stands out from the background.

    3. Make Your Site Keyboard-Friendly

    Some people cannot use a mouse. Instead, they use the keyboard to move from button to button on a page. Make sure that all interactive parts of your site, such as links and forms, can be reached and used by pressing Tab or the arrow keys. You can test this by trying to use your site without a mouse.

    4. Use Clear Labels and Instructions

    Forms, buttons, and links should have labels that tell people what they do. For example, avoid using a button that says “Click Here.” Instead, use a phrase like “Sign Up for Our Newsletter.” This helps visitors understand what action they’re taking. It also helps users who rely on screen readers since the screen reader will say the label out loud.

    5. Provide Captions and Transcripts

    If you have videos or audio content on your site, make sure you have captions for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. You can also provide written transcripts. This way, all users can understand your content, even if they cannot hear the audio.

    6. Follow the WCAG Guidelines

    The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)  offer detailed advice on how to make sites more accessible. They cover things like color contrast, text size, and how to handle media. While the guidelines can be lengthy, you don’t need to tackle everything simultaneously. Pick the biggest problems first, then work on the rest over time.

    Technical Explanations in Simple Terms

    • Screen Readers: These programs read text on a screen out loud. People who cannot see well often rely on them to use the web. If your site lacks alt text or uses odd layouts, it can confuse screen readers.
    • ARIA Labels: These are extra bits of code that tell assistive technologies how to treat specific parts of a website. They are used when basic HTML tags aren’t enough to explain what something is or does.
    • Semantic HTML: This means using HTML tags the way they were meant to be used. For example, using the <header> tag for your header and <main> for your main content. Semantic HTML makes reading your site easier for browsers and assistive tools.

    Links to Additional Resources

    • W3C Web Accessibility Initiative: This is the group that creates the official guidelines on web accessibility.
    • WebAIM: They offer articles, tools, and services to improve accessibility.
    • The A11Y Project: A community-driven site with accessibility resources, tips, and tools.
    • National Center on Disability and Access to Education (NCDAE): Provides resources on creating accessible web content for education and beyond.

    Embracing Accessibility as a Competitive Advantage

    Improving website accessibility can make you stand out from your competition. People notice when a site is easy to use and welcoming. They are also likely to return if they had a good first experience. In today’s online world, building a site and hoping for the best is not enough. Making it accessible can bring new customers and keep the ones you already have happy.

    Committing to Website Accessibility for 2025

    Focusing on website accessibility sets you up for long-term success. By making your site inclusive, you show you care about all visitors, protect your business from legal risks, and improve SEO while creating a more welcoming internet for everyone.

    Start the New Year with an accessibility audit and tackle high-impact fixes like adding alt text, improving contrast, and ensuring keyboard navigation. Each step brings you closer to a more inclusive and future-proof site.

    Ready to take action? Schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital today. Let us help you build a compliant and inclusive digital presence for 2025 and beyond!

    Greg McNeil

    December 20, 2024
    The Benefits of Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Remediation
    2025, New Year's Resolution, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
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