Why Companies Are Being Sued Over ADA Website Compliance and What It Means for Your Business

In today's digital economy, a company's website isn't just a marketing tool - it's a primary gateway to customers, sales, and service. Yet many businesses overlook a critical legal requirement: digital accessibility. When a website isn't accessible to users with disabilities, it can lead to discrimination claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). And increasingly, that's leading to lawsuits.

The Rising Tide of ADA Website Accessibility Lawsuits

In the past decade, lawsuits claiming websites failed to meet ADA accessibility standards have surged dramatically. Courts and plaintiffs argue that a business's website - especially if it's linked to sales or services - functions as a "place of public accommodation." Because the ADA prohibits discrimination by such entities, inaccessible websites can violate federal law.

Recent trends show thousands of website accessibility lawsuits filed yearly:

• In the first half of 2025, more than 2,000 ADA website accessibility lawsuits were filed, a 37% increase from the prior year.
• Federal court data projects over 9,000 ADA Title III cases by year's end, many of them involving websites.

These filings span from large retailers to small businesses - and even creative industries and nonprofits.

Notable Examples of ADA Website Lawsuits

Here are some high-profile cases that have shaped the ADA accessibility landscape:

1. Winn-Dixie

One of the first major legal battles over website accessibility. Plaintiffs argued Winn-Dixie's website wasn't accessible to visually impaired users. The court agreed that the ADA applied to the site, setting an early precedent for digital accessibility obligations.

2. Domino's Pizza

Arguably the most famous case, Domino's faced a lawsuit alleging its website and mobile app weren't accessible to blind customers. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Domino's appeal, essentially leaving in place the rule that digital platforms must be accessible if tied to physical services.

3. Blue Apron & KitchenAid (Whirlpool)

Major national brands, from meal kits to appliances, have faced ADA complaints over inaccessible website features, prompting settlements and accessibility improvements.

4. Fox News & Beyoncé (Parkwood Entertainment)

It's not just retail - media and entertainment brands have been sued for website accessibility issues like missing alt text and poor keyboard navigation.

5. Fashion Nova

In a 2025 settlement, Fashion Nova agreed to pay $5.15 million - with some class members getting cash - over claims its online store didn't work properly with screen-reading technology used by blind consumers.

What Accessibility Issues Trigger Lawsuits?

Most complaints hinge on technical barriers that make digital content hard or impossible to use for people with disabilities, including:

• Missing alternative (alt) text on images
• Poor keyboard navigation for users who can't use a mouse
• Bad form labeling or inconsistent page structure
• Lack of proper compatibility with screen readers and assistive technologies

Guidelines like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are widely referenced as the standard businesses should follow, even though the ADA itself doesn't spell out exact technical rules.

Why This Matters: Risk & Responsibility

ADA website cases aren't limited to big corporations. Plaintiffs' firms - especially in states like New York, Florida, and California - often target businesses of all sizes, sending demand letters and lawsuits that can be costly to defend or settle.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice ADA website, thousands of digital accessibility claims are filed annually, and many businesses face repeat litigation if they don't proactively fix issues.

How Companies Can Avoid Lawsuits

Here's how businesses can protect themselves and serve all users:

✅ Audit your website regularly
Use automated tools and human testers with disabilities to uncover barriers.

✅ Follow WCAG standards
WCAG Level AA is broadly recognized as the compliance target.

✅ Train your web team
Educate developers, designers, and content creators on accessibility best practices.

✅ Document your process
Audit reports, improvement plans, and user testing can help demonstrate good-faith efforts if challenged.

✅ Plan for ongoing maintenance
Accessibility isn't a one-time checklist - it's an ongoing commitment.

Bottom Line (and Why It's a Smart Business Move)

Beyond legal risk, accessible websites create better experiences for all users - including older adults, people with disabilities, and anyone using assistive technology. With ADA digital accessibility lawsuits rising, proactive compliance isn't just good law - it's good business.

At Horse Before the Cart Marketing, we understand the importance of digital accessibility. Check out our Accessibility Statement to see our commitment to inclusive design, or contact us to learn how we can help make your website accessible to everyone.