Justice department sues Uber for alleged bias against disabled riders with service dogs
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WASHINGTON (TNND) — The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Uber Technologies Inc., accusing the ride-hailing company and its drivers of systematically discriminating against passengers with disabilities, particularly those who travel with service animals.
“For too long, blind riders have suffered repeated ride denials by Uber because they are traveling with a service dog,” said Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This lawsuit seeks to end this persistent discrimination and ensure that riders with disabilities can fully access Uber’s services.”
The lawsuit, filed Friday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, claims Uber is violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA prohibits private transportation providers from denying service to individuals with disabilities and mandates equal access, including accommodations for service animals and mobility devices.
According to the complaint, Uber drivers have repeatedly canceled rides upon learning that a passenger had a service animal, often imposing cancellation fees. In some instances, riders were reportedly charged cleaning fees for animal shedding. The Justice Department detailed more than a dozen accounts from Uber passengers, some of whom reported being insulted, demeaned, or asked inappropriate questions by drivers.
The lawsuit argues that Uber’s alleged actions have led to disabled riders missing important appointments, facing long delays, and being stranded in unsafe or inclement weather conditions.
Federal prosecutors are seeking $125 million in damages for individuals who experienced discrimination and filed complaints with Uber or the Justice Department. The lawsuit also demands that Uber revise its policies to comply with the ADA and provide training for its staff and drivers on disability rights and accessibility.
Uber has denied the allegations, stating that it takes “decisive action” when drivers violate its service animal and accessibility policies.
“Riders who use guide dogs or other assistive devices deserve a safe, respectful, and welcoming experience on Uber — full stop,” the company said in a statement.
Uber also pointed to ongoing efforts to improve accessibility, including driver training, enhanced reporting systems, and a 24/7 service animal denial hotline. “We remain deeply committed to expanding access and continuously improving the experience for riders with disabilities,” the statement added.
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