The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against Lyft, accusing the company and its drivers of routinely refusing service to passengers with disabilities. The complaint focuses on individuals who use mobility devices like stowable wheelchairs and those with service animals, alleging violations of Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Lyft is accused of imposing cancellation fees on refused passengers and failing to modify policies, such as denying front-seat access for mobility needs.
This follows a 2020 settlement where Lyft agreed to pay damages and revise wheelchair policies, but the DOJ deemed changes insufficient. The lawsuit seeks $53 million in damages and driver training on the ADA. Lyft denies the allegations, stating it has policies against discrimination and enforces consequences for violations.
Last year, the DOJ also sued Uber over similar allegations. Both lawsuits were filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of California.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing