Managing Risk in Disability Discrimination Claims Against Uber

Disability discrimination litigation is once again spotlighting corporate compliance risks. According to an article by Reuters published in Business Insurance Magazine, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against Uber Technologies, alleging that the company has violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

The complaint, brought in federal court in San Francisco, alleges that Uber drivers routinely discriminated against passengers with disabilities by refusing rides, charging unlawful fees, and subjecting riders to verbal mistreatment.

The DOJ claims Uber drivers denied service to riders with service animals, charged improper cleaning or cancellation fees, and at times insulted passengers with disabilities or denied reasonable seating accommodations. The lawsuit outlines 17 specific cases, including that of J.E., a 7-year-old amputee allegedly denied a ride home; Jason Ludwig, a Gulf War veteran with a service dog who missed a flight after being refused service; and Jeff Clark, a blind passenger whose rides were repeatedly canceled in Philadelphia.

The DOJ seeks an injunction to prevent future ADA violations, mandate enhanced training and practices, and impose monetary damages and civil penalties. Uber, in response, rejected the allegations, affirming its commitment to accessibility and emphasizing its zero-tolerance policy for confirmed service denials.

For risk managers, this case highlights the multidimensional risk created by disability discrimination litigation. Beyond regulatory penalties, such suits can drive reputational damage, shareholder concerns, and operational disruptions. 

Organizations must proactively evaluate compliance programs, strengthen accessibility measures, and ensure training aligns with ADA obligations to mitigate exposure.