Ensuring your website complies with accessibility and legal standards is critical to protecting your business. Non-compliance can result in lawsuits, fines, and lost customer trust. This guide explains how businesses in the USA and Canada can safeguard their digital presence from compliance risks while meeting WCAG, ADA, AODA, and Section 508 requirements.
Understanding Website Compliance Risks
What Are Compliance Risks?
Compliance risks arise when websites fail to meet accessibility, privacy, or security regulations. Common violations include:
- Inaccessible multimedia content
- Poor navigation for screen readers
- Missing or outdated accessibility statements
- Data privacy breaches
Why Compliance Matters for Your Business
Ignoring compliance exposes your organization to:
- Legal penalties and lawsuits
- Financial loss due to fines and settlements
- Reputational damage among customers and partners
Case Study: Small eCommerce Retailer – non-compliant website triggered formal complaints and legal scrutiny.
Key Compliance Regulations for Websites
| Regulation | Scope | Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| ADA | US law ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities | All US-based websites and online services |
| AODA | Ontario, Canada, accessibility standards | Websites serving Ontario residents |
| WCAG 2.1 | Global web content accessibility standards | Applies internationally, recommended for all businesses |
| Section 508 | US federal agencies | Government websites and contractors |
| GDPR & COPPA | Privacy and data protection | Websites targeting EU users or children under 13 |
ADA Compliance | AODA Compliance | WCAG Compliance
Common Compliance Violations
- Videos and multimedia without captions or transcripts
- Missing alternative text for images
- Non-accessible forms and interactive elements
- Insufficient keyboard navigation
- Outdated or missing accessibility policies
Case Study: Discord Accessibility Suit – highlighted the importance of proactive accessibility compliance.
Step-by-Step Protection Strategy
| Step | Action | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Conduct a Full Website Audit | Identify all accessibility and legal gaps |
| 2 | Update Technical Elements | Ensure WCAG, ADA, and AODA standards are met |
| 3 | Improve Content Accessibility | Add alt text, captions, and accessible forms |
| 4 | Publish a Clear Accessibility Statement | Communicate your commitment to users |
| 5 | Train Your Team | Make accessibility part of ongoing content updates |
| 6 | Continuous Monitoring | Regular audits after updates or redesigns |
Tools and Resources to Reduce Risk
- Accessibility testing tools – for screen readers, keyboard navigation, and color contrast
- Compliance management software – tracks updates, audits, and remediation
- Professional accessibility services – expert support to handle WCAG, ADA, and AODA compliance
Case Study: Bank Inaccessible Online – illustrates risks of ignoring digital accessibility.
Proactive Measures for US and Canadian Businesses
Include Accessibility in Design
Integrate accessible features during website development to prevent future violations.
Conduct Regular Employee Training
Educate teams on accessibility and compliance best practices for updates and new content.
Maintain Legal Documentation
Keep detailed records of audits, remediation actions, and policies to demonstrate due diligence.
Case Study: Harvard MIT v NAD – proactive documentation helped reduce litigation risk.
FAQs
How do I know if my website is at risk?
Perform an audit for accessibility, privacy, and security compliance. Identify gaps and prioritize remediation.
What are the most common compliance violations?
Missing alt text, non-captioned videos, inaccessible forms, poor keyboard navigation, and outdated accessibility statements.
Can a US business be liable under AODA?
Yes, if your website targets or serves Ontario residents. Compliance is mandatory.
How often should I review compliance?
Regularly, especially after redesigns, new content, or software updates. Ongoing monitoring prevents violations.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Business Proactively
Website compliance is not optional. Implementing accessibility and privacy best practices reduces legal exposure, protects your reputation, and improves customer experience. Businesses that act now avoid fines, lawsuits, and public complaints.
Get ADA Alert provides comprehensive compliance solutions for US and Canadian businesses. Protect your website from legal and accessibility risks with expert guidance today.
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