CA Businesses Face Website Accessibility Lawsuits: How to Protect Your Online Presence
Alexander J. Navi, Esq.
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The following article is provided by Loophole Lawyer, PC for general informational purposes only. This article does not constitute legal advice nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. Each circumstance and case is fact dependent—if you have questions about your case, call our office for a free consultation.
In California, having an online store—or even a website tied to a physical business location—can expose you to potential ADA and Unruh Civil Rights Act lawsuits. Law firms are increasingly filing mass claims against businesses whose websites are inaccessible to users with disabilities, including those who are blind or visually impaired.
Settlements often range from $5,000 to $25,000 per case, which is typically less expensive than prolonged litigation, making this a real financial and legal concern for businesses of all sizes.
Who Is at Risk?
Businesses across many industries have been targeted, including:
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Retailers and restaurants
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Doctors and medical practices
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E-commerce stores
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Real estate brokers
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Professional service providers
If your website is linked to a California-based business or provides services to the public, you could be vulnerable.
Potential Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violations of the Unruh Civil Rights Act and ADA website accessibility guidelines can lead to significant financial exposure:
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$4,000 per violation under the Unruh Civil Rights Act
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Attorney’s fees for plaintiffs’ counsel
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Potential federal ADA damages in addition to state penalties
Even unintentional accessibility barriers can trigger lawsuits, so proactive compliance is critical.
How to Protect Your Business Online
To reduce the risk of litigation and ensure your website is accessible to all users, consider the following steps:
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Conduct a WCAG 2.1 Accessibility Audit
Evaluate your website for compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1), which are widely recognized as the standard for digital accessibility. -
Add Alt Text to All Images
Provide descriptive text for images to help screen readers communicate visual content to users with vision impairments. -
Ensure Forms and Buttons Are Accessible
Make sure all interactive elements can be navigated via keyboard and are compatible with screen readers. -
Use Accessibility Plugins Wisely
While accessibility plugins can help, they shouldn’t be relied on as the sole solution. Professional review and manual adjustments are often necessary. -
Consult a Professional Web Developer
A developer experienced in ADA compliance can implement lasting accessibility improvements tailored to your site.
Key Takeaways for California Businesses
Website accessibility is no longer optional. ADA and Unruh Act lawsuits are on the rise, and even minor barriers can result in costly settlements or litigation. By auditing your site, implementing accessibility best practices, and consulting professionals, you can protect your business while providing an inclusive experience for all users.
