The federal government has taken significant legal action against Uber, alleging that the ride-hailing giant discriminates against passengers with disabilities. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit claiming that Uber drivers regularly refuse service to individuals with disabilities, including those accompanied by service dogs.
This lawsuit highlights troubling practices, suggesting that drivers have charged illegal cleaning fees related to shedding from service animals and have imposed cancellation fees after deciding against providing rides. Moreover, it is alleged that drivers have denied disabled individuals the opportunity to sit in the front seat, thereby limiting their mobility options when needing access to devices such as walkers or wheelchairs.
According to the lawsuit, these discriminatory practices have resulted in missed appointments and prolonged wait times for disabled riders, who have occasionally found themselves stranded in adverse weather conditions. “For too long, blind riders have suffered repeated ride denials by Uber because they are traveling with a service dog,” stated Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon from the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, emphasizing the need for systemic change.
In response to the allegations, Uber asserted that all drivers must comply with its policies regarding service animals and accessibility. The company maintains that it prohibits drivers from refusing service to individuals with service animals and ensures that drivers provide transportation to those with disabilities, provided the individuals can enter the vehicle independently. Uber has also noted that it forbids drivers from declining to assist with stowing mobility devices.
Uber expressed its disagreement with the lawsuit’s claims and highlighted initiatives it has implemented, such as a hotline established in 2023, which allows customers to report ride denials related to service animals. The company stated that when it confirms policy violations, it takes corrective measures, including potentially deactivating offending drivers.
The DOJ is seeking a substantial sum of $125 million to compensate disabled individuals who have previously lodged complaints with both Uber and the department. The legal proceedings will take place in federal court in Northern California, where Uber Technologies is headquartered in San Francisco.
