Website Accessibility: What Every Business Owner Needs to Know

If you are a business owner with a public-facing website, there is a growing legal and ethical expectation that your site is accessible to people with disabilities. You might be wondering: “Is this legally required?” The technical answer is no, but in practice, it's a yes.

Here’s why.

You're Not Required—But You Are at Risk

While digital accessibility has been addressed in other regulations for state and federal government, universities, and public service organizations, the U.S. Department of Justice has not issued specific regulations regarding website accessibility under the ADA (Title III). However, the courts are not waiting around. More and more judges are ruling that websites fall under the ADA’s umbrella of “public accommodations.”

That means your website needs to provide equal access, just like your physical storefront does. And if it does not, you can be sued. And many businesses are.

Business owners can be at risk if public facing digital assets such as websites are left accessibility noncompliant.

The Legal Reality

Legal risks around accessibility are increasing. Here is what that could mean for you:

• Demand letters and lawsuits: Some law firms or individuals actively seek out non-compliant sites, then issue demand letters or file suits.

• Settlement costs: You could be looking at $5,000–$50,000+ in legal settlements or remediation efforts.

• Attorney fees: You may have to pay the plaintiff’s legal fees—on top of your own.

• Remediation requirements: Courts can mandate site audits, employee training, or long-term monitoring.

In short, ignoring accessibility can cost you, financially and reputationally.

What You Get by Doing It Right

Addressing accessibility isn’t just about legal safety. It’s about business growth and brand value.

• Reach more customers: Over 60 million people in the U.S. live with a disability. Accessibility helps you connect with them.

• Strengthen trust: Inclusive design builds loyalty and signals your business values.

• Get ahead of global laws: If you serve users in Europe, the EU’s Accessibility Act (effective June 2025) may apply.

Accessibility isn’t a sunk cost; it’s a smart investment.

So What Do You Actually Need to Do?

Aim for WCAG 2.1 AA compliance. That’s the standard used in most lawsuits and government guidance. At this level, your website will support:

• High color contrast for low-vision users

• Keyboard-only navigation

• Screen reader compatibility

• Clear, understandable content

This isn’t just a checklist, it’s a way to make your site usable for everyone.

Real-World Examples: No One’s Too Big to Be Sued

Some well-known names have already been targeted:

• Winn-Dixie: Website ruled in violation of the ADA.

• Domino’s Pizza: Court confirmed websites and apps are covered.

• Beyoncé’s entertainment company: Sued for inaccessible web content.

If these big brands can get hit, so can any business that operates online.

What’s the Bottom Line?

Whether you run a law firm, salon, e-commerce shop, or restaurant, if your website is essential to your services, it needs to be accessible. That’s not just legal advice. It’s smart business strategy.

What Should You Do Next?

Don’t wait for a lawsuit. Be proactive.

·         Schedule an accessibility audit.

·         Start aligning your site with WCAG 2.1 AA standards.

·         Train your team to maintain compliance.

Need help getting started? Contact Octokata for accessibility compliance support, audits, and training.

Key Resources

• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1

• ADA Title III Overview

• European Accessibility Act

• Section 508 Standards

• Octokata