The Department of Justice accuses Uber of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by denying equal access and charging extra fees to disabled riders.
The DOJ Files Landmark Lawsuit Against Uber
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has launched a new legal battle against Uber, claiming the ride-hailing giant systematically discriminates against people with physical disabilities.
According to the lawsuit, Uber and its drivers have routinely refused rides to individuals who use stowable wheelchairs or travel with service animals—a direct violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Key Allegations in the Complaint:
- Drivers denying rides to users with service animals or wheelchairs
- Unlawful cancellation fees imposed on disabled riders
- Refusal to modify company policies to accommodate disabled users
Accessibility Barriers and Emotional Toll
The DOJ argues that these practices have caused significant emotional, physical, and financial harm to thousands of individuals. Despite Uber’s broad reach and convenience, the agency claims the platform still fails to ensure equal service for disabled riders.
In its complaint, the DOJ emphasized that Uber’s platform should be a gateway, not a barrier, for individuals with disabilities.
Uber’s Response and Past Allegations
In response, Uber denied the allegations, saying it “fundamentally disagrees” with the DOJ’s characterization and stands by its zero-tolerance policy on service denials. The company says it requires every driver to comply with both its U.S. Service Animal Policy and accessibility laws.
However, Uber’s track record tells a different story:
- In 2021, the DOJ sued Uber for overcharging passengers with disabilities
- By 2022, Uber settled that case, paying millions to over 65,000 riders
- The company has faced multiple personal lawsuits and public protests
These repeated issues suggest a persistent gap between policy and practice.
DOJ’s Legal Strategy and Uber’s Reaction
The DOJ filed its current lawsuit in California’s Northern District after alerting Uber in 2024 that an investigation was underway. Following this, Uber introduced a feature allowing passengers to self-identify service animals, but the DOJ argues this limited response is insufficient.
The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief, damages, and civil penalties, aiming to force Uber to comprehensively reform its service and ensure accessibility compliance.
What This Means for Disability Rights
This lawsuit could set a critical precedent for how tech platforms address accessibility. If successful, it would signal to the gig economy that accessibility isn’t optional—it’s a legal obligation.
It also raises larger questions about the social responsibility of digital platforms that provide essential public services.
