It’s important to ensure that everyone has equal access to the information, services, and products that are available online. This is where web accessibility standards come in - they ensure that websites are designed and developed in such a way that people with disabilities can access them. However, ignoring these standards can have legal implications that can be costly for businesses. Let’s take a look at what these legal implications are.

1. Discrimination

Ignoring web accessibility standards can be considered discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that people with disabilities can file a lawsuit against businesses if they are unable to access their websites. The ADA basically says that any place of public accommodation must be accessible to people with disabilities.

💡 Tip: Ensuring that your website is accessible not only helps to prevent lawsuits but it also increases the chances of people with disabilities choosing your business over competitors that are not accessible.

A person in a wheelchair looking at a computer screen and smiling.

2. Lawsuits

As mentioned earlier, people with disabilities can file a lawsuit against businesses that do not have accessible websites. These lawsuits can be costly - both in terms of legal fees and damages awarded to the plaintiff. In 2019, companies paid out over $1 million in settlements for web accessibility lawsuits.

💡 Tip: Conducting a web accessibility audit and making the necessary changes to your website can not only save you money in the long run but also improve the user experience for all visitors, not just those with disabilities.

A stack of dollar bills on top of a gavel.

3. Negative Publicity

Having an inaccessible website can give your business negative publicity, especially with the increasing awareness of web accessibility issues. People with disabilities and their allies are quick to call out companies that are not accessible. In some cases, a public outcry can lead to boycotts and further financial losses.

💡 Tip: By prioritizing accessibility on your website, you demonstrate that your business is socially responsible and cares about inclusivity. This can create positive brand recognition and encourage consumer loyalty.

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4. Loss of Potential Customers

By ignoring web accessibility standards, you risk losing potential customers who are unable to access your website. In the United States alone, there are over 61 million people with disabilities, each one a potential customer. By making your website accessible, you open up your business to a larger market.

💡 Tip: Websites that are accessible tend to have better search engine optimization, which can lead to more traffic to your website and ultimately more customers.

A person with a laptop and a thought bubble with a large group of people in wheelchairs inside of it.

5. Missed Opportunities

In addition to losing potential customers, a lack of web accessibility standards can result in missed business opportunities. Governments and large organizations often have specific accessibility requirements that websites must comply with in order to be considered for contracts or partnerships. By not meeting these standards, your business could be passed over in favor of a competitor that is more accessible.

💡 Tip: By embracing web accessibility standards, your business can expand its reach and tap into new markets.

A person on a laptop looking at a document labeled "Request for Proposal."

Ensuring that your website is accessible not only helps to prevent lawsuits but also increases the chances of people with disabilities choosing your business over competitors that are not accessible. However, the legal implications of ignoring web accessibility standards can be costly and damaging to your business. By prioritizing web accessibility, you can save yourself money, improve your brand recognition, and open up your business to a larger market.

A globe with "Web Accessibility" written on it.