When your website doesn’t work for disabled users, it’s not just a poor user experience—it’s a legal risk. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related laws, businesses in the U.S. are required to make their digital platforms accessible. Ignoring accessibility can lead to lawsuits, financial penalties, and reputation damage.
Why Accessibility Is a Legal Obligation
Accessibility ensures your digital content is usable for all individuals, including those with disabilities. In the U.S., this is not optional—it’s a compliance standard.
The ADA, Section 508, and related state laws treat websites as extensions of your public business space. That means if someone with a disability cannot use your website, it’s considered digital discrimination.
Learn more about ADA compliance
Legal Risks of Non-Accessible Websites
Inaccessible websites can trigger lawsuits, settlements, and DOJ enforcement actions.
1. ADA Lawsuits
Thousands of ADA lawsuits are filed every year, especially in states like California, New York, and Florida. Businesses large and small have faced claims for websites that exclude users with visual or auditory impairments.
| Example | Industry | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Robles v. Domino’s | Food Service | Domino’s was ordered to make its website and app accessible |
| NAD v. Netflix | Entertainment | Netflix had to add closed captions to all content |
| NFB v. Target | Retail | Target settled for $6 million and made full accessibility changes |
2. DOJ Actions
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has repeatedly intervened against non-compliant businesses. DOJ guidance confirms that ADA applies to websites and mobile apps.
3. Costly Settlements
Fines for first-time ADA violations can reach $75,000, and repeat violations can exceed $150,000—not including private settlement costs and attorney fees.
Financial Impact of Non-Compliance
Ignoring accessibility can cost far more than compliance itself.
| Cost Type | Description | Average Range |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Fees | Defense, settlements, and damages | $20,000–$100,000+ |
| Developer Fixes | Emergency accessibility remediation | $5,000–$50,000 |
| Reputation Damage | Negative press and lost trust | Priceless |
| Lost Customers | Disabled users unable to convert | Long-term revenue loss |
Accessible websites, on the other hand, attract broader audiences, including seniors and users relying on assistive technologies.
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Compliance Standards Every Business Must Follow
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)
The global framework for accessibility, setting standards across visual, auditory, and cognitive disabilities.
| WCAG Level | Requirement | Example |
|---|---|---|
| A | Minimum | Alt text for images |
| AA | Legal standard in U.S. | Contrast, captions, keyboard support |
| AAA | Advanced | Sign language and enhanced readability |
Section 508
Applies to U.S. government websites and contractors.
Industries at Highest Risk of ADA Lawsuits
| Industry | Risk Level | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Retail | Very High | Customers can’t complete purchases |
| Healthcare | Very High | Patient portals and forms inaccessible |
| Finance | High | Banking apps and online statements |
| Education | High | Online learning platforms |
| Hospitality | High | Booking and reservation forms |
Explore industry-specific compliance
User Experience Problems That Trigger Complaints
Most lawsuits start from basic accessibility oversights that could have been avoided.
Common issues include:
- Missing alt text for images
- No captions or transcripts for videos
- Poor keyboard navigation
- Low color contrast
- Broken screen reader compatibility
When disabled users cannot complete an online purchase, read content, or contact support, they can file a complaint—and that complaint can quickly become a lawsuit.
Ethical and Brand Reputation Damage
Accessibility isn’t just about laws—it’s about trust. A brand that excludes users with disabilities can lose credibility, even with customers who aren’t directly affected.
Businesses that prioritize accessibility often see:
- Higher customer loyalty
- Better SEO rankings
- More referrals and positive public image
How to Fix an Inaccessible Website
Compliance can be achieved with a structured approach that identifies and removes barriers.
| Step | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Conduct a full accessibility assessment | Identify all compliance gaps |
| 2 | Implement WCAG-aligned improvements | Fix barriers for users and search engines |
| 3 | Add continuous monitoring | Maintain long-term compliance |
| 4 | Train your team | Prevent future violations |
See how our compliance process works
FAQs About Website Accessibility Failures
Q1: What happens if my website is not accessible to disabled users?
You risk ADA lawsuits, DOJ investigations, financial penalties, and brand damage.
Q2: Is accessibility required for small businesses?
Yes, the ADA applies to all public-facing businesses, regardless of size.
Q3: Can I fix accessibility issues later?
You can, but it’s better to act before complaints or lawsuits occur.
Q4: How can I make my website compliant?
Follow WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines and partner with a compliance service that provides remediation and ongoing monitoring.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
Your website represents your business. If it’s not accessible, it’s not compliant—and that can cost you far more than you think. Avoid lawsuits, protect your brand, and open your website to every visitor.
Ensure your website meets ADA standards today — get full accessibility compliance solutions and protect your business from legal risks.