The United States Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Uber Technologies Inc., accusing the ride-hailing company of violating federal law by discriminating against passengers with disabilities. The complaint, lodged in federal court in San Francisco on Thursday, alleges that Uber drivers have routinely refused service to individuals with disabilities, including those accompanied by service animals or using stowable wheelchairs.
According to the Department of Justice, Uber and its drivers have also imposed unlawful cleaning fees for transporting service animals and cancellation fees on passengers who were denied service. The complaint further claims that some drivers insulted and demeaned disabled passengers or refused reasonable accommodations, such as allowing mobility-impaired individuals to sit in the front seat.
“Uber’s discriminatory conduct has caused significant economic, emotional, and physical harm to individuals with disabilities,” the Department stated, asserting that the company’s actions constitute a breach of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Uber denies allegations
In response, Uber issued a statement denying the allegations and reaffirming its commitment to improving accessibility for disabled passengers. “Riders who use guide dogs or require other assistance deserve a safe, respectful, and welcoming experience on Uber – full stop,” the company said. “We have a clear zero-tolerance policy for confirmed service denials.”
The lawsuit outlines the experiences of 17 individuals who were allegedly mistreated by Uber drivers. Among them is JE, a seven-year-old amputee from the Bronx, New York, who was reportedly denied a ride home from his brother’s birthday party after a driver saw his wheelchair and asked, “Is that coming?”
Another case involves Jason Ludwig, a Gulf War veteran with a service dog, who was allegedly refused a ride from Newport News, Virginia, to Norfolk airport. As a result, Ludwig missed his flight and was forced to drive 16 hours to his home in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts.
Jeff Clark, a blind man from Mount Laurel, New Jersey, is also named in the complaint. He allegedly had four separate Uber drivers cancel rides within 17 minutes in Philadelphia after he disclosed that he used a guide dog.
The Department of Justice is seeking a court injunction to prevent further violations of the ADA. It is also requesting that Uber implement improved practices and training for its drivers, pay monetary damages to affected individuals, and be subjected to a civil penalty.
A spokesperson for the Department declined to provide further comment on the matter.
The case marks a significant development in ongoing efforts to ensure equal access to transportation services for disabled individuals. It also raises broader questions about the responsibilities of technology companies in adhering to civil rights legislation and providing inclusive services.
Uber has faced previous scrutiny over its treatment of disabled passengers, and the outcome of this lawsuit may have implications for the company’s operations and policies going forward.
