Justice Department sues Uber for allegedly discriminating against people with disabilities | TechCrunch

"The U.S. Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against Uber, accusing the ride-hailing company of violating federal law by discriminating against people with physical disabilities. In particular, the Department of Justice's (DOJ) civil rights division claims that the company and its drivers "routinely refuse to serve individuals with disabilities, including individuals who travel with service animals or who use stowable wheelchairs." Uber is also accused of charging extra fees on riders who need special accommodations, including cancellation fees when service is denied."

""Despite the importance of its services to people with disabilities, Uber denies people with disabilities full and equal enjoyment of its services in several critical ways," lawyers for the DOJ wrote. "Uber also refuses to reasonably modify its policies, practices, or procedures where necessary to avoid discriminating against riders with disabilities.""

"This has caused "significant economic, emotional, and physical harm to individuals with disabilities," the DOJ argues. Uber did not immediately respond to emailed requests for comment. Uber has long faced accusations that its services are discriminatory toward people with physical disabilities. The DOJ sued the company in 2021 for overcharging those passengers. The company ultimately reached a settlement with the DOJ in 2022 where it paid out millions of dollars to more than 65,000 affected users."

The U.S. Justice Department filed a lawsuit alleging that Uber and its drivers routinely refuse service to individuals with disabilities, including those who travel with service animals or use stowable wheelchairs. The complaint alleges that Uber charges extra fees for riders needing special accommodations, including cancellation fees when service is denied, and refuses to reasonably modify policies to avoid discrimination. The DOJ says these practices violate the Americans with Disabilities Act and have caused significant economic, emotional, and physical harm. Uber previously settled a 2021 DOJ suit, paying millions to more than 65,000 users.

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