On the Dash:
- DOJ alleges Uber and its drivers refused rides to people with service animals or wheelchairs and imposed unlawful fees.
- Uber disputes the claims, citing anti-discrimination policies and new features to support disabled riders.
- The lawsuit seeks damages, fines, and a jury trial, underscoring ADA protections for the 61 million U.S. adults with disabilities.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) sued Uber on Thursday, alleging the ride-hailing company discriminated against riders with disabilities in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
In a complaint filed in federal court in San Francisco, the DOJ said Uber and its drivers routinely refused to serve people with disabilities, including those traveling with service animals or using stowable wheelchairs. The agency also alleged Uber imposed unlawful surcharges, such as cleaning fees related to service animals and cancellation fees for riders denied service.
“Despite the importance of its services to people with disabilities, Uber denies people with disabilities full and equal enjoyment of its services in several critical ways,” the DOJ complaint said. It also accused drivers of insulting riders with disabilities or asking inappropriate questions.
Uber rejected the claims, saying it has a “clear zero-tolerance policy for confirmed service denials” and Community Guidelines that prohibit discrimination. The company pointed to recent steps to support disabled riders, including a new feature that provides educational videos for drivers on service animal policies.
The Justice Department is seeking a jury trial, injunctive relief to modify Uber’s policies, monetary damages, and civil fines.
Passed in 1990, the ADA protects disabled Americans from discrimination in public services. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 61 million U.S. adults, or one in four, report having a disability.
