ADA Compliance and Website Accessibility

Is Web Accessibility enforced?

Even though prioritizing web accessibility isn’t technically required by law, it doesn’t mean your business can’t face legal or financial repercussions for being inaccessible. In 2023 alone, there were over 4600 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-related lawsuits.

What is Web Accessibility?

Web accessibility is the practice of creating websites that are usable for all visitors regardless of a disability or impairment. To fulfill web accessibility best practices, you must create a site that complies with certain design and development guidelines that ensure your site is set up to accommodate folks with disabilities. This ensures that all users have the same or similar experience regardless of ability.

What is ADA Compliance?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a U.S. civil rights law that requires businesses and organizations that serve the public to provide equal access to their goods and services.

Although the ADA does not specifically mention websites, courts and regulatory agencies increasingly interpret websites as places of public accommodation. As a result, many organizations are expected to make their websites accessible to individuals with disabilities.

For websites, ADA compliance typically means following recognized accessibility standards, most commonly WCAG 2.1 Level AA, which address accessibility for people with visual, hearing, motor, and cognitive disabilities.

Why is ADA Compliance important?

Inclusive Access
An accessible website allows everyone to use your services, including people with disabilities, older users, and those using assistive technologies.

Better User Experience
Accessibility improvements—such as clear navigation, readable text, and keyboard-friendly design—make your website easier to use for all visitors, increasing engagement and satisfaction.

Reduced Legal Risk
Website accessibility lawsuits have increased significantly in recent years. Addressing accessibility proactively helps reduce the risk of complaints, legal action, and associated costs.

Is ADA Compliance legally required?

In many cases, yes.

Government agencies, public institutions, and publicly funded organizations are legally required to maintain accessible websites.
Businesses and nonprofits that offer goods or services to the public are subject to ADA enforcement.
Courts across the U.S. have ruled that inaccessible websites do violate the ADA.

Because enforcement continues to evolve, many organizations choose to comply with WCAG standards to demonstrate a good-faith effort toward accessibility and legal compliance.

Stay ADA compliant powered by

One in six people have a disability, according to the WHO. By making accessibility in web design an afterthought, your site effectively eliminates a large chunk of the population from using or enjoying it. And by embracing web accessibility best practices, you're able to offer a more inclusive experience for all.

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