A website accessibility lawsuit against cosmetic giant is on the news recently. In fact, ensuring equal access to online content has become crucial in our digital-centric era.
The case in question revolves around L’Oréal, a global beauty giant. The legal action taken against them concerns website accessibility. As companies strive to provide inclusive online environments, website accessibility lawsuits have become a catalyst for change. As a result businesses begin to prioritize accessibility and bridge the digital divide.
In this article, we will delve into the details of L’Oréal’s settlement. Consequently, shedding light on the broader implications of website accessibility lawsuits. And the imperative for organizations to embrace accessibility as a fundamental aspect of their digital strategy.
Website accessibility lawsuit filings in 2022 set a record
In 2022, the number of website accessibility lawsuits filed in federal court reached a new record. A total of 3,255 lawsuits were filed in 2022 alone. Accordingly, alleging that individuals with disabilities faced difficulties in using websites. Due to their lack of accessibility and compatibility with assistive technologies.
This figure represents an increase of 360 lawsuits compared to the previous year, marking a 12% rise. Although slightly lower than the 14% increase observed in 2021, it matches the 12% increase seen in 2020.
In fact these numbers are not as dramatic as the surge in cases witnessed between 2017 and 2018. Then there was a staggering 177% increase. Nevertheless, the consistent year-over-year growth in these lawsuits remains highly significant. Source: ADA Title III.
Cosmetic Giant faces lawsuit over website inaccessibility
On August 15th 2022, a class action was filed in a New York federal court. It alleges that the L’Oréal website is not accessible to visually impaired people using a screen reader.
L’Oréal class action alleges website lacks alt text
A plaintiff, Marina Iskhakova has filed a class action suit, alleging that the images on the website lack alt text. Visually impaired people using screen readers are unable to access the images on the site.
What does the class action state?
The class action alleges missing alt text or alternate text for images on the website. The website also contains a host of broken links and pages that contain the same title elements. This constitutes a clear violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Due to this, the plaintiff was unable to differentiate what products were on the screen.
Iskhakova is representing all legally blind people in the United States. The access barriers denied the plaintiff the ability to use the defendant’s website the same way sighted individuals do.
The plaintiff is seeking a permanent injunction to change the defendants’ corporate practices and procedures. After the changes are implemented, the website will be accessible to blind and visually impaired consumers.
She also requests certification of the class actions, an injunction, damages, fees, costs and a jury trial.
Source: Topclassactions.com
L’Oreal settled the lawsuit filed against it and the case has been closed. Makeup brand Revlon settled a similar litigation filed against it. Similarly on November 10, Bumble & Bumble was hit with a putative class action in a New York federal court. The lawsuit alleges that the retailer denied equal access to the blind and visually impaired due to design shortcomings.
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Final thoughts
The website accessibility lawsuit against L’Oréal regarding serves as a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity. This case highlights the growing importance of website accessibility lawsuits as a means to enforce equal access.
By resolving these legal challenges, businesses not only achieve compliance but also demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity and customer satisfaction. Additionally, this settlement serves as a wake-up call for organizations to proactively tackle website accessibility issues. And acknowledge the significant benefits of offering an inclusive online experience.
Website accessibility lawsuits offer more than just legal challenges. They provide companies with a chance to improve their brand reputation. And grow their customer base, and forge deeper connections with users. Moving forward, businesses must prioritize website accessibility and implement the right solutions. This enables seamless navigation and engagement for all individuals become crucial steps for businesses.
By embracing accessibility as a core principle, organizations can avoid potential lawsuits. And also also create a more inclusive and accessible online environment for all.
