FAQs
What is an accessibility lawsuit?
An accessibility lawsuit is legal action brought against a business or organisation for failing to make its products, services, or digital platforms accessible to people with disabilities.
Lawsuits are typically based on legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S. or the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which establish clear digital accessibility law requirements.
Outcomes of accessibility lawsuits can vary depending on the country, but often include:
-
Financial penalties or settlements
-
Publication of accessibility statements
-
Reputational damage from negative press
-
Court-mandated accessibility remediation
How common are accessibility lawsuits?
Accessibility lawsuits are becoming increasingly common worldwide.
In the United States, there has been a 37% surge in ADA lawsuits across a range of industries, including retail, eCommerce, and hospitality.
Enforcement under the European Accessibility Act (EAA) officially began in June 2025. Although comprehensive data is still emerging, the first web accessibility lawsuits in France have already targeted major retailers, marking the start of stricter compliance checks and legal action across the EU.
The evidence is clear: as digital accessibility law is more widely enforced, organisations that delay compliance face increasing exposure to lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage.
What accessibility requirements apply to eCommerce websites?
Under the European Accessibility Act, eCommerce websites must meet the EN 301 549 accessibility standard.
Adhering to this standard ensures that online shopping platforms are usable by all customers, including those who rely on assistive technologies such as screen readers or keyboard navigation.
Key accessibility requirements for eCommerce brands include:
-
Descriptive alt text for images
-
Clear and consistent navigation
-
Accessible checkout flows
-
Accessible digital documents
-
Keyboard operability
-
Sufficient colour contrast and readable fonts