The Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, changed the lives of disabled individuals when it was passed in 1990. Prior to the ADA, communities did not have to make spaces accessible to people with disabilities, but the law emphasizes how important physical access is. If you’re a business owner in California, you should know that accessibility on the web is regulated now, too.
Building a site that’s ADA compliant
ADA compliance is a legal matter, not a design one. It’s outside the scope of what most web developers understand. Companies that don’t get the right help in building a website may find themselves being sued. For example, alt text, closed captioning and audio description of videos make it possible for people with impaired vision or hearing to get the most out of your business’s website.
Being compliant with the ADA is made harder by the fact that there’s no legislation that explicitly addresses accessibility on the web at this time. Rulings and judgements tend to be based on the idea, enshrined in the ADA back in 1990, that public places need to be accommodating for everyone. Your website developer may not know all of the changes required to comply with the law, so seeking the assistance of a professional experienced in this area is recommended.
Getting legal help
It’s advisable to contact an attorney who works in ADA compliance when building an app or website. People rely on the internet more than ever before, including for essential services, so you want to make sure your services are accessible to everyone. Consulting with an attorney experienced in this area is an upfront expense, but in the long run, it might save your business a lot of money in legal judgements. Our ADA compliance page provides more information about the benefits of working with a legal professional to develop your company’s website.