The Department of Justice is suing Uber for alleged discrimination against people with disabilities.
The federal lawsuit claims Uber routinely denied rides to passengers traveling with service animals and mobility devices like foldable wheelchairs.
The case was filed in Northern California district court. Prosecutors are seeking $125 million in compensation for those affected.
Authorities say Uber and its drivers “routinely refuse to serve individuals with disabilities,” violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Title III bars discrimination by public accommodations and commercial facilities.
The DOJ also says Uber imposes “impermissible surcharges.” Riders with service animals are charged extra for shedding and cleaning.
Cancellation fees for riders who were “unlawfully denied service” are also cited in the complaint.
Prosecutors claim Uber has failed to update policies to accommodate riders with disabilities, per the New York Daily News.
Some passengers are not allowed to sit in the front seat when needed. This has caused delays and missed appointments.
Riders have reportedly been stranded in bad weather because of Uber’s refusal to accommodate.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon said, “For too long, blind riders have suffered repeated ride denials by Uber because they are traveling with a service dog.”
Dhillon added, “This lawsuit seeks to end this persistent discrimination and allow riders with disabilities to use Uber.”
The lawsuit asks for a court order requiring Uber to revise its policies to comply with the ADA.
Uber would also have to train drivers and staff on the relevant law and pay a civil penalty.
U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian said, “The federal lawsuit underscores the United States’ commitment to enforcing the ADA’s promise of equal access.”
The case highlights mounting scrutiny of major tech and ride-sharing companies.
Authorities say the lawsuit aims to ensure service animals, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices are properly accommodated.
Legal experts warn this case could set a precedent for the ride-sharing industry nationwide.
It may force Uber to implement system-wide changes affecting millions of drivers and riders.
Civil rights advocates say this is a necessary step to hold corporations accountable for alleged violations.
The lawsuit also draws attention to the broader problem of accessibility in transportation.
Prosecutors argue that Uber’s alleged policies have created systemic barriers for people with disabilities.
The federal government hopes a favorable ruling will send a message to other companies.
Passengers and disability rights organizations are watching closely, saying enforcement of the ADA is long overdue.
The case could reshape how ride-sharing services handle riders with service animals and mobility devices.
If successful, the lawsuit may force Uber to fully overhaul its platform and training programs.
The DOJ said the lawsuit is part of a wider effort to eliminate disability discrimination nationwide.
