Is It True That Websites Need To Be ADA Compliant?
by Sandy Waggett
2 min reading time
Today, we're addressing a critical topic that impacts every business owner with an online presence: ADA compliance for websites. You might wonder, 'Why is this important for my business?' Let's delve into the reasons, including the most recent requirements from the DOJ and a real-life scenario that underscores the urgency of this issue.
What is ADA Compliance?
ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act. It requires businesses to ensure their services are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. This mandate extends to digital spaces, meaning your website must be accessible to users with various disabilities, such as vision impairment, hearing loss, and mobility issues.
Recent DOJ Requirements
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has affirmed that websites offering goods and services to the public should be accessible, reinforcing the ADA's scope. While specific technical standards aren't explicitly mandated by the DOJ, following the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at levels A and AA is widely regarded as the best practice to ensure compliance.
Why We Recommend ADA Compliance
It's the Right Thing to Do: Making your website accessible is a step towards inclusivity, ensuring that all your potential customers, regardless of their physical limitations, can access your services and products.
Legal Risks: Unfortunately, the rise in ADA compliance lawsuits has become a significant concern. Predatory attorneys target small businesses for non-compliance, leading to costly legal battles. A real story that brings this issue to life involves 'Grommett Cutlery,' a family business sued for $80,000 due to their website's non-compliance. They settled for $27,000, a devastating blow that could bankrupt many small companies.
Protect Your Business with a Free Scan
Understanding the complexities of ADA compliance can be daunting. That's why we offer a free scan of your website to identify potential compliance issues. This proactive step not only aligns with ethical business practices but also safeguards your business against potential legal threats.
ADA compliance for your website isn't just about adhering to regulations; it's about ensuring your digital doors are open to everyone. Beyond the moral imperative, compliance is a protective measure against the very real risk of legal action that can threaten your business's financial stability. Don't let your business be caught off guard. Take action now to ensure your website is accessible to all.
Remember, ADA compliance is more than a legal requirement; it's a commitment to inclusivity and a safeguard against potentially crippling lawsuits. Let's make the digital world accessible to everyone.
