From Fastcompany · · 2m
DOJ sues Lyft for disability discrimination
The Justice Department accuses Lyft of systematically denying rides to passengers with disabilities, the latest federal action against ride-hailing companies.
In brief
The Justice Department accuses Lyft of systematically denying rides to passengers with disabilities, the latest federal action against ride-hailing companies. The Justice Department sued Lyft for allegedly discriminating against passengers with disabilities by denying rides and refusing accommodations required by law…
Justice Department files lawsuit
The Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Lyft on Monday, accusing the company of discriminating against passengers with disabilities seeking rides on its platform.
Alleged discriminatory practices
Lyft is accused of denying rides to people with service animals, refusing passengers who use stowable wheelchairs, and preventing mobility-impaired riders from sitting in the front seat.
What the law requires
The lawsuit says Lyft is aware of but fails to prevent and remedy discriminatory practices against riders needing accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
DOJ's statement on equal access
Acting assistant attorney general Jesus A. Osete said the government intends to uphold the ADA's promise that people with disabilities are entitled to equal access in every part of public life, including transportation.
“Individuals with disabilities should be able to rely on rideshare services free of discrimination.”
Lyft rejects the accusations
Lyft firmly rejected the accusations in a statement, defending its policies and commitment to accommodating passengers with disabilities.
Pattern of federal action
This lawsuit is the latest from the federal government targeting ride-hailing companies for treatment of riders with disabilities. The administration filed a similar lawsuit against Uber last year, which is ongoing.
Previous settlements
Uber settled a separate disability discrimination suit in two thousand twenty-two. Lyft settled a different one in two thousand twenty. Both companies stress their policies require drivers to provide ADA accommodations.
Real-world impact on riders
The lawsuit names several examples of people across the country whose drivers refused to take them to their destination, including as recently as last month, causing delays to medical appointments and cancellation fees.
Lyft's stated policy
Lyft policies require drivers to accommodate riders who travel with service animals or mobility devices. Drivers who violate these policies face serious consequences, including permanent deactivation, the company said.
“drivers who violate these policies face serious consequences, including permanent deactivation”
In short
The Justice Department sued Lyft for allegedly discriminating against passengers with disabilities by denying rides and refusing accommodations required by law.
