Common Accessibility Issues- Top 8 Reasons Websites Face Lawsuits

Screenshot of Justice Department Issues Web Accessibility Guidance Under The Americans with Disabilities Act Webpage

Many websites fail to meet accessibility standards, creating significant barriers for users with disabilities. Below are the top eight accessibility issues that often lead to legal action:

  1. Inadequate Color Contrast: Text with insufficient contrast makes reading difficult for visually impaired users. The minimum recommended contrast ratio is 4.5:1, meaning your text color should be at least 4.5 times darker or lighter than the background. Ensuring proper contrast improves readability and prevents accessibility complaints.
  2. Missing Alt Text: Images without descriptive alt text cannot be interpreted by screen readers, leaving visually impaired users in the dark. Alt text is also crucial for search engines to understand the content of your images, improving SEO performance.
  3. Non-Accessible Forms: Forms often lack proper labeling, making them challenging to navigate for users relying on screen readers. Fields without clear labels can confuse users, especially those with limited vision. Ensure every form field is labeled and keyboard navigable.
  4. Improper Page Titles and headings: A well-structured page with clear titles and subheadings improves readability and accessibility. Consistent and descriptive headings help users—and search engines—quickly understand the content’s structure. Avoid multiple Header 1 tags on a single page, as this confuses screen readers.
  5. Inconsistent Font Sizes – Using appropriate font sizes enhances readability. Avoid manipulating text size by misusing header tags, such as applying multiple Header 1 tags for styling. Header tags should convey hierarchy, not just appearance.
  6. Problematic Use of Colors – Do not rely solely on color to convey meaning. For example, using a green button to indicate “Go” excludes users with color blindness or those using screen readers. Always include text, such as the word “Go,” to accompany color cues.
  7. Lack of Video Accessibility – Videos without subtitles or audio descriptions exclude users who are deaf or hard of hearing. Avoid auto-playing videos, as they can disrupt the experience for users relying on assistive technologies.
  8. Distracting Animations – Flashing animations or fast-moving visuals can cause discomfort or even trigger seizures for users with epilepsy. Minimize or eliminate such elements to create a safer, more inclusive experience.

Addressing Accessibility Issues

By tackling these issues, you not only make your website more inclusive but also enhance the overall user experience for all visitors

The Business Case for Accessibility

Investing in website accessibility offers several benefits:

  • Expanded Audience: Approximately 20% of the global population lives with some form of disability. Making your website accessible ensures you’re not excluding this significant portion of potential customers.
  • Improved SEO: Accessible websites often achieve higher rankings in search engine results. Search engines favor sites that follow best practices, including alt text for images, proper page structure, and clear navigation.
  • Enhanced User Experience: Accessibility features benefit all users, not just those with disabilities. Clear navigation, readable fonts, and responsive design create a better experience for everyone.
  • Increased Revenue Potential: Accessibility opens your business to a larger customer base, potentially increasing sales and conversions. Studies have shown that inclusive websites lead to improved customer loyalty and repeat business.
  • Reputational Gains: Demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity builds trust and strengthens your brand reputation. Customers and partners are more likely to support businesses that value diversity and accessibility.
  • Legal and Financial Safeguards: By proactively addressing accessibility, you reduce the risk of costly lawsuits and fines, which can harm your business both financially and reputationally. In the USA the IRA offer Tax Credits to help with accessibility projects.

Ready to make your website accessible and inclusive?

Connect with The Web Detective today or schedule a call through our website. Together, we can enhance your site’s accessibility, comply with legal standards, and reach a broader audience.

Find out more by connecting with the Web Detective

Virginia, VA

Virginia, VA

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act

Consumer Rights

Utah, UT

Utah, UT

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Utah Consumer Privacy Ac

Consumer Rights

Texas, TX

Texas, TX

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Texas Data Privacy and Security Act

Consumer Rights

Tennessee, TN

Tennessee, TN

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Tennessee Information Protection Act

Consumer Rights

Rhode Island, RI

Colorado, CO

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Rhode Island Data Transparency and Privacy Protection Act

Consumer Rights

Oregon, OR

Oregon, OR

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Oregon Consumer Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

New Jersey, NJ

New Jersey, NJ

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

New Jersey Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

New Hampshire, NH

New Hampshire, NH

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

New Hampshire Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Nebraska, NE

Colorado, CO

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Nebraska Data Privacy Ac

Consumer Rights

Montana, MT

Montana, MT

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Montana Consumer Data Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Minnesota, MN

Colorado, CO

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Maryland, MD

Maryland, MD

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Maryland Online Data Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Kentucky, KY

Kentucky, KY

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act

Consumer Rights

Iowa, IA

Iowa, IA

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Iowa Consumer Data Protection Act

Consumer Rights

Indiana, IN

Indiana, IN

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Indiana Consumer Data Protection Act

Consumer Rights

Florida, FL

Florida, FL

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Florida Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Delaware, DE

Delaware, DE

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Delaware Personal Data Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Connecticut, CO

Connecticut, CO

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Connecticut Data Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Colorado, CO

Colorado, CO

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

Colorado Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

California, CA

California, CA

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

Statute/Bill: CCPA

Laws Signed (To Date): 2018; effective 1 Jan. 2020

California Consumer Privacy Act

Consumer Rights

Some common enquiries used to help prove your online identity.

  • Google Search Results
  • Knowledge Panels found in search results
  • Website presence
  • Website reported as spam
  • Social Media presence
  • Search Engine Visibility
  • Reviews or lack of reviews
  • Online Reputation
  • Branding and Marketing messaging
  • Your online identity

A Fact You Wouldn't Believe

Did you know that most websites get flagged as spam or untrustworthy just after they have been published? The reason is that it will have limited or no traffic, the owner cannot be verified, lack of Google searches and search results.

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