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The Justice Department sued Lyft on Monday, November 9, alleging that the ride-hailing company discriminated against passengers who use service animals and mobility devices, including stowable wheelchairs.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges violations of Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to the department’s announcement.
Federal officials are seeking $53 million in compensation for people with disabilities who submitted complaints to Lyft or the department. They also seek a civil penalty and a court order requiring policy changes and ADA training for staff and drivers.
The complaint alleges that Lyft and its drivers refused rides to passengers with disabilities, charged cancellation fees after allegedly unlawful service denials, and failed to reasonably modify policies and practices. The department said that includes denying some passengers with mobility disabilities access to the front seat when needed.
The department said private transportation companies must accommodate service animals and assist passengers with stowable wheelchairs and other mobility devices under the ADA.
These are allegations in a newly filed lawsuit, not findings of liability. The $53 million is compensation sought by the department, not a fine or judgment already imposed. Lyft is not quoted in this report.
JBizNews Desk | Business & Legal Affairs
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