In an era dominated by online presence, small businesses face an unexpected threat - the surge in lawsuits targeting ADA violations on their websites. This ominous trend not only jeopardizes the financial stability of businesses but also poses a risk to their reputation. In this blog post, we explore the alarming rise in ADA lawsuits, the hefty settlements that follow, and a cost-effective solution that could save your business from legal turmoil.
The Alarming Rise in ADA Lawsuits:
Recent years have seen a substantial increase in the number of ADA lawsuits filed against small businesses for non-compliance with website accessibility standards. According to the UsableNet ADA Web Accessibility Lawsuit Report, 2022 saw a staggering 1,817 federal ADA lawsuits related to website accessibility. This represents a significant uptick, emphasizing the urgency for small businesses to address this issue promptly.
The Costly Consequences:
ADA lawsuits can result in settlements that carry a hefty price tag. The average settlement for ADA website compliance violations surpasses $15,000, a financial burden that can cripple many small businesses. With legal fees, potential fines, and the impact on your business's reputation, the consequences extend far beyond the initial settlement amount.
A Solution That Won't Break the Bank:
The good news is that there's an affordable and effective solution available - accessibility widgets. These widgets, such as the one offered by AccessiBe, provide a streamlined approach to ADA compliance for websites. AccessiBe's AI-powered widget ensures that your website is accessible to individuals with disabilities, protecting your business from legal ramifications.
The AccessiBe Advantage:
AccessiBe stands out as a pioneer in the accessibility widget space. By subscribing to AccessiBe, small businesses can achieve full ADA compliance without the exorbitant costs associated with traditional website overhauls. Priced at just $20 a month after tax credits and deductions, AccessiBe offers an accessible and economical solution.
How AccessiBe Works:
Automated Compliance: AccessiBe uses artificial intelligence to automatically make websites compliant with WCAG 2.1 standards, the internationally recognized guidelines for web accessibility.
Continuous Monitoring: AccessiBe ensures ongoing compliance by monitoring and adjusting your website as new content is added, providing a sustainable solution.
User-Friendly Interface: The widget offers a user-friendly interface for individuals with disabilities, including those using screen readers, ensuring an inclusive online experience.
Litigation Support Package: AccessiBe stands behind the product they create by offering legal support and resources if you ever face legal action after subscribing to their widget.
Act Now to Safeguard Your Business:
The time to act is now! Book an absolutely free consult with one of our web-accessibility experts where you can run an audit of your website and discuss options to become complaint no matter your business size.
Don't wait until legal action is taken against your business. Invest in accessibility today to secure a more inclusive and legally compliant online presence.
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