Restaurant owners have a duty to ensure their premises are compliant with the Americans With Disability Act (ADA). It also makes financial sense, as around one in five Americans have some form of disability – which is a big chunk of potential clients.
Here are some things you should be doing to stay compliant with the regulations and help those with disabilities feel they are just as welcome as anyone else:
Make it easy to park and enter
If your restaurant is busy, people may find it hard to get a parking spot. Most people can just park up the street and walk, but that won’t be possible for some customers. Be sure you have signed parking spots reserved for those with disabilities and make sure they are wide enough for those who need extra space to get out of their car, such as if exiting into a wheelchair.
Also, make sure these spots are close to the entrances and there is a clear, obstacle-free way for wheelchair users and others with disabilities to travel from their vehicles into your restaurant. Putting the designated parking bay at the bottom of the stairs when the only entrance ramps are on the other side of the building is not making things accessible.
Make it comfortable for people to sit at the table
Some people will need a wider space around their table. Others may need lower chairs or tables. It’s important to take all of these things into consideration when looking at ADA compliance.
Ensure a good restroom experience
Ensure that getting to the restroom and using it is a pleasant experience. Don’t have a situation where someone cannot reach the toilet paper or the sink. There are specific rules that need to be applied for a restroom to be ADA-compliant.
Welcome services animals
Not everyone likes the idea of dogs in restaurants. However, the law obligates you to accept service dogs. Thinking about which would be a suitable table, and little extras such as providing a bowl of water for the dog can go a long way to make their owner feel welcome.
That is just a general overview and the regulations are very particular, involving specific ratios and signage. Getting help to get it right now can save you from putting off customers and potentially facing an ADA lawsuit for non-compliance.