DOJ files 5 million lawsuit against Uber for denying service to riders with wheelchairs and service dogs.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated legal action against Uber Technologies, Inc., alleging systemic discrimination against individuals with disabilities. The lawsuit, filed in a Northern California district court, claims that Uber has routinely denied ride requests from passengers accompanied by service animals and mobility devices, including foldable wheelchairs. The DOJ is seeking 5 million in compensation for those who have reported such discriminatory practices.
The DOJ asserts that as the nation’s leading ride-sharing service, Uber and its drivers have consistently failed to provide service to individuals with disabilities, thereby violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination in public accommodations. According to court filings, Uber is accused of imposing “impermissible surcharges” on riders, which include fees for cleaning up after service animals and cancellation charges for users who have been unlawfully denied rides.
Furthermore, the complaint highlights Uber’s failure to amend its policies to accommodate riders with disabilities. The lawsuit indicates that in certain situations, passengers who require specific seating arrangements—such as sitting in the front seat—have been denied, resulting in significant delays that can lead to missed appointments and leave riders stranded, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division is taking a firm stance on this issue, with Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stating that the lawsuit aims to halt the ongoing discrimination faced by blind riders and others in need of assistance from service animals. The DOJ’s action underscores a broader commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in public life and have equal access to services.
In addition to the financial compensation being sought, the DOJ is requesting a court order that would mandate Uber to revise its policies to align with ADA requirements, provide training to its staff and drivers on disability rights, and implement measures that address the public’s interest in eradicating disability discrimination.
U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian emphasized the federal government’s dedication to upholding the ADA’s guarantees of equal access for all citizens. As of now, Uber has not issued a public response to the allegations.
This legal challenge highlights the ongoing issues surrounding accessibility in ride-sharing services and raises important questions regarding the responsibilities of companies in ensuring equal treatment for individuals with disabilities. The outcome of this lawsuit may set significant precedents for the ride-share industry and its obligations under federal law.
