Cases

Ho v. The Hertz Corporation

Added February 22, 2024

In February 2024, DRA filed a class action lawsuit in the Northern District of California against national car rental company Hertz to end its systemic civil rights violations against people with disabilities who need hand controls to operate a rental car. While there are many configurations, hand controls generally consist of a mechanism that allows … Continue reading “Ho v. The Hertz Corporation”

Employment Accommodations at the Social Security Administration

Added December 1, 2023

Disability Rights Advocates is investigating the experiences of Social Security Administration employees who have been denied disability-related accommodations at work. We would greatly appreciate if you would complete the following survey if you have been denied disability accommodations related to your employment with the Social Security Administration.

Prado v. City of Berkeley

Added September 8, 2023

On September 5, 2023, DRA initiated legal action to prevent the City of Berkeley from conducting evictions of unhoused Berkeley residents who reside on 8th and Harrison Street until there are sufficient provisions of shelter, housing, or alternative accommodations that take into consideration their disability-related needs. 

Curran v. City of Oakland

Added September 1, 2023

In May 2023, DRA filed a federal class action lawsuit against the City of Oakland on behalf of two people with mobility disabilities for denying them full and equal access to the City’s pedestrian rights of way, a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and California … Continue reading “Curran v. City of Oakland”

Fisher v. City of Berkeley

Added August 23, 2023

In August 2023, DRA filed a lawsuit against the City of Berkeley on behalf of three disabled members of the Berkeley Commission on Disability for violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to allow them to attend Commission meetings remotely as an accommodation unless they subject themselves to burdensome, dangerous, and invasive requirements. Read the … Continue reading “Fisher v. City of Berkeley”

Complainants v. State Bar of California

Added May 18, 2023

In May 2023, DRA and DREDF filed a group complaint with the United States Department of Justice on behalf of four law school graduates with disabilities against the State Bar of California for consistently violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to provide accommodations on the California bar exam. Read the complaint. The State … Continue reading “Complainants v. State Bar of California”

Battle v. Tennessee

Added April 18, 2023

This case was filed on January 14, 2022 to challenge the State of Tennessee’s failure to ensure that effective communication is provided to d/Deaf people who receive services from the State’s Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) and its Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (DMHSAS). For instance, the Defendants have placed Plaintiffs in group homes without any … Continue reading “Battle v. Tennessee”

Golden 1 Center Ticketing Platform Partnership

Added February 27, 2023

As Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center welcomes increasing numbers of visitors back to the stadium to enjoy Kings games, concerts, and other events, community members who are blind or have low vision will notice improvements to the stadium’s online ticket purchase platform. These improvements are thanks to a February 2023 collaboration between the Golden 1 Center, … Continue reading “Golden 1 Center Ticketing Platform Partnership”

Yesue v. Sebastopol

Added October 25, 2022

In October 2022, DRA, ACLU Foundation of Northern California, Legal Aid of Sonoma County, and California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. filed suit against the city of Sebastopol for enacting an ordinance that prohibits vehicles “used for human habitation” from parking anywhere within city limits during the day.  This action, aimed at driving the city’s most … Continue reading “Yesue v. Sebastopol”

Weimer v. U.S. Air Force

Added October 18, 2022

Since 2020, Disability Rights Advocates and the Law Offices of Wendy Musell have represented a group of Deaf civilian employees, applicants, and former employees in an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) case against the United States Air Force—which, despite its $190 billion annual budget, has consistently failed to provide Deaf employees and applicants with American … Continue reading “Weimer v. U.S. Air Force”

Trivette v. Tennessee Department of Corrections

Added September 19, 2022

This lawsuit filed in March 2020 on behalf of six Deaf and hard of hearing people who are incarcerated in Tennessee Department of Corrections (“TDOC”) facilities challenges TDOC’s failure to provide effective communication to people who are Deaf and hard of hearing and enable them to access the same programs and services as non-disabled people. … Continue reading “Trivette v. Tennessee Department of Corrections”

Spencer v. Providence St. Joseph Health

Added July 26, 2022

In July 2022, DRA filed a lawsuit in the Western District of Washington against Providence St. Joseph Health for the health care company’s failure to ensure effective communication for Deaf patients seeking medical care at Providence’s Seattle-area facilities. DRA’s clients, all of whom are Deaf and use ASL as their primary method of communication, had … Continue reading “Spencer v. Providence St. Joseph Health”

National Association of the Deaf v. Sirius XM

Added December 13, 2021

In December 2021, Disability Rights Advocates and National Association of the Deaf filed a lawsuit against three major providers of podcasts, SiriusXM, Stitcher, and Pandora, to end their exclusion of deaf and hard of hearing Americans from each company’s extensive podcast streaming service. Read the complaint here. Because Defendants do not make transcripts available for … Continue reading “National Association of the Deaf v. Sirius XM”

Fowler v. California Department of Insurance

Added November 10, 2021

In October 2021, Disability Rights Advocates and TRE Legal Practice filed a disability rights lawsuit in California State Court against the California Department of Insurance (CDI) for its failure to ensure the accessibility of its licensing exam for insurance agents for blind applicants. The lawsuit also includes claims against PSI Services, the private entity that … Continue reading “Fowler v. California Department of Insurance”

Planet Fitness

Added September 21, 2021

On September 21, 2021, Planet Fitness, Inc., one of the largest and fastest-growing global franchisors and operators of fitness centers with more members than any other fitness brand, and the Paralyzed Veterans of America, National Council on Independent Living, and American Council of the Blind (collectively “Coalition for Inclusive Fitness” or the “Coalition”) announced a … Continue reading “Planet Fitness”

Cardew v. New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision

Added August 30, 2021

On August 30, 2021, Disability Rights Advocates and Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York filed a class action lawsuit against the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) on behalf of people with disabilities who are incarcerated at Five Points Correctional Facility and have been denied mobility-related accommodations they need to get … Continue reading “Cardew v. New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision”

Doe and Roe v. County of Los Angeles

Added July 29, 2021

In July 2021, Disability Rights Advocates filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court on behalf of two participants in Los Angeles County’s federally-funded Master of Social Work Trainee Program, whose internship and employment offers with the County’s Department of Children and Family Services were withdrawn following invasive and unnecessary psychological evaluations. Read the Complaint. … Continue reading “Doe and Roe v. County of Los Angeles”

Ruffa v. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)

Added July 21, 2021

On July 20, 2021, DRA filed a class action lawsuit against the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) on behalf of Deaf human resource (HR) professionals who do not have equal access to SHRM’s services because SHRM fails to provide accommodations like sign language interpreters, captioning, and timely transcripts for SHRM’s continuing education programming. SHRM … Continue reading “Ruffa v. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)”

Navarro v. Mountain View

Added July 14, 2021

If you are a person who is houseless in Mountain View or one of the nearby communities and have parked or may park any vehicle that could be considered “oversized” by Mountain View, (over 6’ in height, 7’ in width, or 22’ in length) then click here to read the Class Notice describing a proposed … Continue reading “Navarro v. Mountain View”

Goodlaxson v. Baltimore

Added June 10, 2021

On June 10, 2021, three wheelchair users and the IMAGE Center of Maryland filed a class action lawsuit alleging widespread and ongoing violations of federal accessibility requirements by the City of Baltimore for its failure to properly install and maintain of curb ramps and sidewalks. These violations severely impact the ability of people with mobility … Continue reading “Goodlaxson v. Baltimore”

Terrill v. State of Oregon

Added April 21, 2021

On April 20, 2021, Disability Rights Advocates and Lynn S. Walsh filed a class action lawsuit against the State of Oregon and the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) on behalf of current and former people with disabilities who are incarcerated and who have been charged for the costs of the prostheses and other equipment they … Continue reading “Terrill v. State of Oregon”

Geary v. City of Pacifica

Added March 15, 2021

On March 15, 2021, on behalf of five Pacifica residents who reside in RVs, Disability Rights Advocates, the ACLU Foundation of Northern California, and the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County filed a class action lawsuit against the city to strike down a law that bans RV parking within city limits. The lawsuit argues … Continue reading “Geary v. City of Pacifica”

EF v. New York City Department of Education

Added January 26, 2021

  On January 26, 2021, DRA and partners filed a major class action lawsuit challenging New York City’s segregated school system for students with disabilities on Staten Island. The lawsuit alleges that the borough’s separate school district for children with disabilities, known as District 75, denies these students an equal education, forcing them into segregated … Continue reading “EF v. New York City Department of Education”

American Council of the Blind of Indiana v. Indiana Election Commission

Added December 3, 2020

Indiana voters with print disabilities can now use their own assistive technology to cast their absentee ballot privately and independently, due to a historic settlement agreement reached in January 2023. As a result of the settlement, the state has agreed to acquire a new remote accessible ballot marking tool that will allow these voters to … Continue reading “American Council of the Blind of Indiana v. Indiana Election Commission”

HBO Max Structured Negotiations

Added October 19, 2020

In a landmark agreement, advocates for people who are blind obtained WarnerMedia’s pledge to increase the accessibility of HBO Max—the much-anticipated online streaming platform that was launched in May 2020. Among other commitments, the agreement provided that WarnerMedia would provide audio description on at least 1,500 hours of new and existing programming on HBO Max … Continue reading “HBO Max Structured Negotiations”

Westchester County Emergency Preparedness

Added October 15, 2020

Disability Rights Advocates, Westchester Disabled on the Move, Inc., and Westchester County have reached a settlement agreement that will result in significant improvements to the County’s emergency preparedness and response programs for people with disabilities who live in, work in, or travel to the County. The agreement was reached through structured negotiations without any lawsuit … Continue reading “Westchester County Emergency Preparedness”

Chiappetta vs. New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

Added October 14, 2020

In October 2020, Disability Rights Advocates filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of blind New Yorkers and the American Council of the Blind, New York against New York state entities, challenging the inaccessibility of “NY-Alert,” a Mass Notification System intended to warn New Yorkers and visitors of emergencies and other critical information in a … Continue reading “Chiappetta vs. New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services”

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired v. ADP TotalSource

Added September 23, 2020

In September 2020, DRA filed a class action suit on behalf of San Francisco’s LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired and two of its employees against payroll processing and HR giant, ADP TotalSource and its parent company Automatic Data Processing, Inc. for failing to make their industry-leading products and services accessible to blind managers and … Continue reading “LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired v. ADP TotalSource”

Fust v. First Urology

Added August 13, 2020

First Urology is a full-service urological medical and imaging practice with roughly twenty locations in Kentucky and Indiana. First Urology is required by law to buy equipment and train its staff to help people with disabilities lift onto examination and imaging tables. Instead, First Urology had a written policy stating that patients requiring assistance to … Continue reading “Fust v. First Urology”

North Carolina Council of the Blind v. North Carolina State Board of Elections

Added July 27, 2020

On July 27, 2020, disability organizations filed a lawsuit against the North Carolina State Board of Elections for excluding North Carolinians with disabilities from their Absentee Voting program. The lawsuit charges the state agency with discrimination against voters who are unable to independently and privately mark a paper ballot due to vision disabilities. All North … Continue reading “North Carolina Council of the Blind v. North Carolina State Board of Elections”

Herrera v. New York State

Added June 10, 2020

On June 10, 2020, Disability Rights Advocates filed a Charge of Discrimination with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission against the State of New York and several of its agencies. The Charge challenges the State’s bright-line rule disqualifying anyone with binocular vision lower than 20/40 from being hired as a Mental Health Therapy Aide Trainee (MHTAT), … Continue reading “Herrera v. New York State”

Hernandez v. New York State Board of Elections

Added May 22, 2020

On May 22, 2020, DRA and a coalition of disability organizations filed a lawsuit against the New York State Board of Elections for excluding New Yorkers with disabilities from their Absentee Ballot program, which has expanded in response to COVID-19. The lawsuit charges the state agency with discrimination against voters who are unable to independently … Continue reading “Hernandez v. New York State Board of Elections”

Manderson v. New York City Department of Education

Added May 12, 2020

Dayniah Manderson, a tenured English teacher with over 15 years of teaching experience in New York City public schools, uses an electric wheelchair and has been unable to use a restroom at her middle school building in the Bronx for the past 13 years due to the New York City Department of Education (DOE)’s failure … Continue reading “Manderson v. New York City Department of Education”

Guerra v. West LA College

Added May 7, 2020

On April 30, 2020, the Ninth Circuit ruled in favor of students with disabilities seeking access to West Los Angeles College (WLAC). The Ninth Circuit found that requiring students with disabilities to access their education in ways that remained after the shuttle was stopped was an unfair burden on them because of their disabilities. As … Continue reading “Guerra v. West LA College”

McCullough v. California Department of Developmental Services

Added April 30, 2020

In April 2020, Disability Rights Advocates and Disability Rights California filed a class action lawsuit against the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) on behalf of deaf individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The lawsuit sought to address the state agency’s discrimination against deaf people who depend on regional center programs and services funded … Continue reading “McCullough v. California Department of Developmental Services”

Community Resources for Independent Living (CRIL) v. MobilityWorks

Added January 17, 2020

In October 2018, Disability Rights Advocates filed a class action lawsuit alleging that Mobility Works—the country’s largest provider of wheelchair accessible vehicles for sale or rent, and a major installer of adaptive devices—employed two policies that discriminated against drivers with disabilities. Mobility Works denied these allegations, and does not admit liability. But, after extensive negotiations, … Continue reading “Community Resources for Independent Living (CRIL) v. MobilityWorks”

Jackson v. Queens Borough Public Library

Added November 26, 2019

On November 26, 2019, Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) filed a class action lawsuit against Queens Borough Public Library, The Board of Trustees of the Queens Borough Public Library, and the City of New York, challenging the inaccessibility of Queens’ newest library branch, Hunters Point Library. Plaintiffs Tanya Jackson and Center for Independence of the Disabled … Continue reading “Jackson v. Queens Borough Public Library”

American Council of the Blind of Metropolitan Chicago vs. City of Chicago

Added September 23, 2019

In September 2019, DRA and Proskauer Rose LLP, on behalf of the American Council of the Blind of Metropolitan Chicago and three individual plaintiffs, filed a landmark class action lawsuit against the Chicago Department of Transportation. The lawsuit alleges that Chicago ignores blind pedestrians in its pedestrian planning, sometimes ignoring their safety needs and sometimes … Continue reading “American Council of the Blind of Metropolitan Chicago vs. City of Chicago”

White v. Square

Added September 9, 2019

In White v. Square, the California Supreme Court considered the issue of whether a plaintiff deterred from using an online service by discriminatory terms and conditions stated on its website may bring claims under California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act, an issue with important implications for the ability of people with disabilities to challenge discriminatory barriers … Continue reading “White v. Square”

Jackson v. The Board of Education of the City of Chicago

Added August 29, 2019

On August 29, 2019, Disability Rights Advocates and Legal Council for Health Justice filed a class action lawsuit against Chicago Public Schools (“CPS”) challenging CPS’s policy of denying free nutrition programs to students whose disabilities require them to attend therapeutic day schools (“TDS”). On June 3, 2021, Judge Young B. Kim preliminarily approved a settlement … Continue reading “Jackson v. The Board of Education of the City of Chicago”

Smith v. City of Oakland

Added August 27, 2019

Image: Fox Oakland Theater via Flickr Oakland renters who need to live in accessible units are either shut out of the City’s rent control protections entirely, or forced to live in inaccessible units. If you are in either situation, we want to hear from you: contact us at 510-529-3491 or oakland.rent@dralegal.org On August 28, 2019, … Continue reading “Smith v. City of Oakland”

Liberty Resources, Inc v. the City of Philadelphia

Added August 26, 2019

In August 2019, DRA filed a class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, alleging that the City of Philadelphia discriminates against residents and visitors with disabilities that affect their mobility by failing to make its sidewalks and pedestrian routes accessible. When the lawsuit was filed, some corners … Continue reading “Liberty Resources, Inc v. the City of Philadelphia”

Fraihat v. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

Added August 19, 2019

Click here for community resources (English and Spanish) including information explaining the consequences of the court’s order, who it applies to, and aspects of the decision that may be useful in your advocacy. According to the April 20, 2020 emergency order, ICE must conduct custody redeterminations for all subclass members. Click here for information on … Continue reading “Fraihat v. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement”

J.R. v. Oxnard School District

Added July 31, 2019

Disponible en español abajo. On June 9, 2017, Disability Rights Advocates, The Learning Rights Law Center, and the Law Office of Shawna L. Parks filed a lawsuit in the Central District of California on behalf of the organization Primero Los Niños and 10 individual children with disabilities, charging that the Oxnard School District does not … Continue reading “J.R. v. Oxnard School District”

The History of DRA’s Lawsuits Against the NYC Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Added July 19, 2019

The New York City subway system, the lifeblood of the city, is the most convenient way for nearly all New Yorkers to get around town. However, the MTA wholly excludes hundreds of thousands of NYC residents and visitors who have a mobility disability that limits their use of stairs from the 75% of stations that … Continue reading “The History of DRA’s Lawsuits Against the NYC Metropolitan Transportation Authority”

O’Hanlon v. Uber Technologies, Inc.

Added June 11, 2019

On June 11, 2019, DRA and co-counsel Carlson Lynch filed a class action lawsuit against Uber, challenging its failure to make wheelchair-accessible vehicles available through its popular, on-demand ridesharing service in the Pittsburgh area. Uber is a multi-billion dollar company and a major provider of transportation services in the Pittsburgh area. However, Uber fails to … Continue reading “O’Hanlon v. Uber Technologies, Inc.”

De La Rosa v. MTA (Federal case)

Added May 15, 2019

In May 2019, DRA filed a civil rights class action lawsuit in New York against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), challenging its prevalent, discriminatory practice of renovating New York City subway stations without installing elevators or other stair-free routes in blatant violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This illegal conduct harmed hundreds of … Continue reading “De La Rosa v. MTA (Federal case)”

Independent Living Resource Center of San Francisco (ILRC), et al. v. Uber Technologies, Inc., et al.

Added April 25, 2019

On October 24, 2018, Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) filed a major class action lawsuit against Uber challenging the popular ride-sharing service’s lack of wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The federal lawsuit was brought by a coalition of individuals and disability rights groups in the San Francisco Bay Area: the Independent Living Resource Center of San Francisco, Community Resources … Continue reading “Independent Living Resource Center of San Francisco (ILRC), et al. v. Uber Technologies, Inc., et al.”

Suffolk Independent Living Organization v. Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Added April 23, 2019

On July 10, 2020, Disability Rights Advocates (DRA), Kasowitz Benson Torres, and the Law Offices of James E. Bahamonde reached an agreement with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to resolve a lawsuit alleging three LIRR stations violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by failing to install elevators when … Continue reading “Suffolk Independent Living Organization v. Metropolitan Transportation Authority”

Salsiccia v. Sharks Sports & Entertainment LLC

Added March 26, 2019

In March 2019, DRA filed a class action suit against Sharks Sports & Entertainment LLC (the San Jose Sharks), the City of San Jose, and the San Jose Arena Authority for their failure to make the San Jose Sharks + SAP Center mobile application accessible to those with vision disabilities. In September 2021, the parties … Continue reading “Salsiccia v. Sharks Sports & Entertainment LLC”

Independent Living Resource Center of San Francisco (ILRC), et al. v. Lyft, Inc., et al.

Added March 20, 2019

In March 2019, Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) filed a major class action lawsuit against Lyft challenging the popular ride-sharing service’s failure to provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles as a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The federal law suit was brought by a coalition of individuals and disability rights groups in the San Francisco Bay Area: … Continue reading “Independent Living Resource Center of San Francisco (ILRC), et al. v. Lyft, Inc., et al.”

M.F. v. NYC Department of Education

Added November 1, 2018

In November 2018, DRA, the American Diabetes Association®, and Alan L. Yatvin of Weir Greenblatt Pierce LLP sued the New York City Department of Education (“DOE”) and other New York City agencies, alleging that these agencies systemically failed to ensure that students with diabetes could attend school safely and have access to the same educational … Continue reading “M.F. v. NYC Department of Education”

Hinkle, et al. v. Kent, et al.

Added October 22, 2018

On October 18, 2018, DRA and a coalition of blind advocates filed a class action lawsuit in Federal Court against the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and its county agents for failing to provide Medi-Cal notices in accessible formats, such as Braille. The plaintiffs are the California Council of the Blind and three … Continue reading “Hinkle, et al. v. Kent, et al.”

American Council of the Blind of New York, Inc., v. The City of New York

Added June 19, 2018

On June 27, 2018, DRA, on behalf of the American Council of the Blind of New York (“ACBNY”) and two individual plaintiffs, filed a landmark class action lawsuit against the New York City Department of Transportation. According to the suit, New York City violated federal law by failing to systematically implement audible and tactile pedestrian … Continue reading “American Council of the Blind of New York, Inc., v. The City of New York”

Bloom et al v. City of San Diego

Added June 8, 2018

On April 30, 2020, the Plaintiffs in the Bloom case, who previously sued the City of San Diego over two city ordinances that penalize vehicle habitation, requested a temporary restraining order preventing the City from enforcing these ordinances during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Plaintiffs also asked the Judge to order the City to allow them … Continue reading “Bloom et al v. City of San Diego”

Mental Health & Wellness Coalition v. Stanford

Added May 17, 2018

Disability Rights Advocates initially brought this case on behalf of the Stanford Mental Health & Wellness Coalition and three students in May 2018. On July 16, 2018, with three new students joining the suit, DRA filed a motion for class action certification requesting that the court certify a class to challenge Stanford’s system-wide policies and … Continue reading “Mental Health & Wellness Coalition v. Stanford”

T.G. v. Kern County

Added February 22, 2018

Read the Class Notice in English or Spanish. On February 22, 2018, Disability Rights Advocates, in partnership with Disability Rights California (“DRC”), released a 50-page report on our 6-month investigation of the treatment of youth with disabilities at the Kern County Juvenile Hall and other Kern County juvenile detention facilities. Our investigation uncovered abuse and … Continue reading “T.G. v. Kern County”

FDNY’s Discrimination Against Veterans

Added September 20, 2017

On September 19, 2017, DRA filed a class Charge of Discrimination against the City of New York and the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) for discriminating against veterans applying for FDNY positions. On December 12, 2017, DRA filed a second Charge in the same case. The Charges are filed on behalf … Continue reading “FDNY’s Discrimination Against Veterans”

Cole, et al. v. County of Santa Clara, et al.

Added July 28, 2017

Disability Rights Advocates represents Santa Clara County Jail inmates with mobility disabilities in litigation against Santa Clara County. Currently, there are no housing areas at the County Jails compliant with federal or state accessibility standards, and much of the rest of the County Jails have some sort of architectural barriers. Accordingly, some inmates report suffering … Continue reading “Cole, et al. v. County of Santa Clara, et al.”

M.G., et al. v. New York City Department of Education, et al.

Added July 27, 2017

On June 22, 2021, a United States District Court approved a settlement with the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) to resolve a 2017 lawsuit brought by Bronx Independent Living Services (BILS) and two students with disabilities in the Bronx, represented by Disability Rights Advocates (DRA). The class action lawsuit challenged the DOE’s denial … Continue reading “M.G., et al. v. New York City Department of Education, et al.”

Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY) v. Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) (S.D.N.Y.)

Added April 25, 2017

This case challenges the MTA’s failure to maintain the few elevators that exist in New York City’s subway stations. DRA has a second, related case challenging the MTA’s failure to install elevators in all stations. On April 25, 2017, DRA filed a class action lawsuit against the New York City Transit Authority (“NYCTA”) and the … Continue reading “Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY) v. Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) (S.D.N.Y.)”

Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY) v. MTA (State case)

Added April 25, 2017

This case challenges the MTA’s failure to install elevators at all New York City’s subway stations. DRA has a second, related case challenging the MTA’s failure to maintain the few elevators that currently exist. In April 2017, DRA filed a class action lawsuit against the New York City Transit Authority (“NYCTA”), Metropolitan Transit Authority (“MTA”), … Continue reading “Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY) v. MTA (State case)”

American Council of the Blind, Michael Godino, et al. v. Keenwawa, Inc., d/b/a Eatsa

Added April 11, 2017

In September 2017, Disability Rights Advocates announced a settlement of its federal lawsuit on behalf of the American Council of the Blind (ACB) and members of the blind community against eatsa, a growing, national fast-casual restaurant chain. eatsa utilizes a high-tech service model in which customers order meals via its smartphone app or at an … Continue reading “American Council of the Blind, Michael Godino, et al. v. Keenwawa, Inc., d/b/a Eatsa”

Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled (BCID), et al., v. New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Four Freedoms Park Conservancy

Added March 21, 2017

On March 16, 2017, DRA filed a class action lawsuit against the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Four Freedoms Park Conservancy for their failure to make the Franklin Delano Roosevelt (“FDR”) Memorial accessible for persons with mobility disabilities. The obstacles include a flight of stairs at the very … Continue reading “Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled (BCID), et al., v. New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Four Freedoms Park Conservancy”

Sandra Lamb v. NRAD Medical Associates, et al.

Added March 2, 2017

In 2017, Disability Rights Advocates filed a federal lawsuit against NYU Langone-NRAD Radiology Centers on behalf of a person who uses a wheelchair after she was denied service based on her disability.  None of NYU Langone-NRAD Radiology Centers’ many facilities throughout Long Island and in Queens provide the accessible medical equipment necessary for treating patients … Continue reading “Sandra Lamb v. NRAD Medical Associates, et al.”

Adam X. v. New Jersey Department of Corrections

Added January 11, 2017

Please see the notice to individuals who may be impacted by the class action settlement agreement at the following link: https://bit.ly/3H8v9Ln . The New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC) will drastically improve the provision of special education services for people in its prisons, according to a settlement preliminarily approved by the federal District Court for … Continue reading “Adam X. v. New Jersey Department of Corrections”

Disabled In Action of Metropolitan New York (DIA) v. The City of New York

Added October 27, 2016

Disability Rights Advocates filed a class action lawsuit against the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and the City of New York in October 2016 on behalf of four individual plaintiffs who were unable to get into NYPD precinct stations to make crime reports, attend community safety meetings, or otherwise access the services provided at … Continue reading “Disabled In Action of Metropolitan New York (DIA) v. The City of New York”

Lyft Access for Riders with Service Animals

Added August 16, 2016

DRA is representing the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and guide dog users in their efforts to secure equal access to Lyft’s transportation network nationwide. Lyft provides transportation services through thousands of vehicles, to consumers throughout the nation. Lyft uses smartphone applications to create a convenient, streamlined experience, dispatching cars on-demand to drive passengers … Continue reading “Lyft Access for Riders with Service Animals”

National Federation of the Blind (NFB), et al. v. Ridecharge

Added August 12, 2016

On behalf of several blind individuals and NFB, DRA and co-counsel at LaBarre Law Offices, TRE Legal Practice, and the Law Offices of Anthony Goldsmith, filed a lawsuit against RideCharge and its related companies challenging the illegal barriers that its “Taxi Magic” point-of-sale terminals presented to blind and low-vision taxi riders in the greater Los … Continue reading “National Federation of the Blind (NFB), et al. v. Ridecharge”

Caltrain Clipper Card

Added August 12, 2016

On behalf of several blind individuals, DRA demanded that Caltrain address the access barriers that the Clipper Card system at Caltrain stations presented to blind and low-vision passengers, such as: (1) fare gates that were difficult to locate, (2) confusing audio tones that emitted from the gates, and (3) the inability for blind and visually … Continue reading “Caltrain Clipper Card”

BART Clipper Card

Added August 12, 2016

On behalf of the Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired and several blind individuals, DRA demanded that BART address the access barriers that the Clipper Card system at BART stations presented to blind and low-vision passengers.  Specifically, Clipper Card readers at BART fare gates did not provide any audible feedback.  As a consequence, blind … Continue reading “BART Clipper Card”

Blanks v. San Francisco Federal Credit Union

Added August 2, 2016

In September of 2015, San Francisco Federal Credit Union overhauled its website. Suddenly, Credit Union member Marco Salsiccia, who is blind, discovered he was unable to use the Credit Union’s online banking services independently. “I could no longer log in to my account like I had before,” he recalled. “I had to get a sighted … Continue reading “Blanks v. San Francisco Federal Credit Union”

National Federation of the Blind, et al., v. The City of New York, et al.

Added July 28, 2016

In January of 2017, Disability Rights Advocates announced a settlement of its 2016 federal lawsuit on behalf of the National Federation of the Blind (“NFB”) and three blind individuals, alleging that the City of New York and its partner, CityBridge LLC, discriminated against blind people in their LinkNYC program. LinkNYC, touted as a “first-of-its-kind communication … Continue reading “National Federation of the Blind, et al., v. The City of New York, et al.”

D.C. Center for Independent Living, et al. v. District of Columbia

Added July 27, 2016

On September 9, 2014, DRA filed a class action lawsuit together with co-counsel from Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP and the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs against the District of Columbia for its failure to meaningfully include persons with disabilities in its emergency planning. People with disabilities have traditionally faced exceptionally … Continue reading “D.C. Center for Independent Living, et al. v. District of Columbia”

Abused Deaf Women’s Advocacy Services, et al. v. Northwest Hospital & Medical Center et al.

Added July 26, 2016

Northwest Hospital & Medical Center has agreed to implement policy changes to ensure that its patient-focused healthcare services are accessible to individuals who are Deaf and hard of hearing. Hospitals are required to provide patients and companions with auxiliary aids and services—such as qualified sign language interpreters or assistive listening devices—that are necessary for effective … Continue reading “Abused Deaf Women’s Advocacy Services, et al. v. Northwest Hospital & Medical Center et al.”

Westchester Independent Living Center, et al. v. SUNY Purchase, et al.

Added July 26, 2016

In July 2016, DRA filed this class action lawsuit against the State University of New York at Purchase College, located in Westchester County, alleging that it violates federal and state disability law by not providing students and visitors with mobility disabilities equal access to its educational and cultural programs.  Specifically, the suit says that those … Continue reading “Westchester Independent Living Center, et al. v. SUNY Purchase, et al.”

Ochoa, et al. v. City of Long Beach, et al.

Added July 21, 2016

In June 2014, DRA, Goldstein, Borgen, Dardarian & Ho (GBDH), and Disability Rights Legal Center (DRLC) filed a class action lawsuit against the City of Long Beach and its Mayor alleging discrimination against residents and visitors who have mobility disabilities by failing to maintain accessible sidewalks and pedestrian rights-of-way. Individuals who use wheelchairs, motorized scooters, … Continue reading “Ochoa, et al. v. City of Long Beach, et al.”

M.W., et al. v. United States Department of the Army, et al.

Added July 19, 2016

DRA filed this lawsuit to challenge a nationwide, antiquated U.S. Army policy that prohibits staff in its Child, Youth and School Services (“CYSS”) programs from administering critical medications and providing vital support to children with diabetes in their care.  As long as the policy is in place, children with diabetes cannot participate safely in Army … Continue reading “M.W., et al. v. United States Department of the Army, et al.”

National Federation of the Blind of California, et al. v. Uber Technologies, Inc., et al.

Added July 15, 2016

Page Contents Introduction Case Background Settlement Addressing Ongoing Discrimination Introduction In 2016, DRA reached an unprecedented settlement with Uber to stop discrimination against blind people who use guide dogs on the Uber platform. DRA is currently monitoring Uber’s compliance with the settlement agreement. If you were denied service by an Uber driver because you travel … Continue reading “National Federation of the Blind of California, et al. v. Uber Technologies, Inc., et al.”

Center for Independent Living, Inc. (CIL), et al. v. Wal-Mart

Added July 14, 2016

In today’s challenging economy, many Americans are shopping at stores like Wal-Mart that offer low prices, convenience and affordability.  These stores are central to activities of daily living for millions of people.  Yet many of these retailers knowingly place point-of-sale machines beyond the reach of patrons with disabilities who use wheelchairs and scooters.  This compromises … Continue reading “Center for Independent Living, Inc. (CIL), et al. v. Wal-Mart”

California Council of the Blind (CCB) et al. v. County of Alameda et al.

Added July 14, 2016

Voting privately and independently is one of the most fundamental and cherished American rights. In July 2013, DRA filed a lawsuit against the County of Alameda challenging discrimination faced by voters with disabilities who are denied an equal opportunity to vote on Election Day. The suit was brought by California Council of the Blind and … Continue reading “California Council of the Blind (CCB) et al. v. County of Alameda et al.”

Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY), et al. v. City of New York, et al.

Added July 14, 2016

In July 2014, DRA and Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP filed a class action lawsuit against the City of New York challenging widespread, dangerous curb ramps and inaccessible pedestrian routes throughout New York City neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan, where a number of critical services, including government buildings, centers for civic participation, offices, and other … Continue reading “Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY), et al. v. City of New York, et al.”

Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, et al. v. Redbox Automated Retail LLC, et al.

Added July 14, 2016

Self-service kiosk technology allows us to bank, shop, and conduct a wide range of transactions independently, without the assistance of a clerk. In this era of automated technology and self-service, it is important that businesses operate kiosks that allow everyone, including people with disabilities, to use their services. In January 2012, DRA, along with the … Continue reading “Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, et al. v. Redbox Automated Retail LLC, et al.”

National Federation of the Blind, et al. v. Scribd, Inc.

Added July 14, 2016

In July 2014, DRA filed a lawsuit on behalf of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and Heidi Viens, challenging Scribd, Inc.’s failure to design its digital reading subscription service to work with software used by the blind.  Available on desktop and mobile devices, Scribd’s service provides users access to a large library of … Continue reading “National Federation of the Blind, et al. v. Scribd, Inc.”

United Spinal Association, et al. v. Board of Elections (BOE)

Added July 14, 2016

In 2010, DRA, United Spinal Association and Disabled in Action filed a lawsuit on behalf of all New Yorkers of voting age with mobility and vision disabilities, who face access barriers attempting to vote privately and independently at their designated polling sites in New York City year after year. After more than four years of … Continue reading “United Spinal Association, et al. v. Board of Elections (BOE)”

Gray, et. al v. Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), et al.

Added July 14, 2016

In 2008, DRA filed a lawsuit on behalf of a class of people with mobility and vision disabilities who were unable to fully participate in the Golden Gate National Recreational Area (GGNRA)’s park system due to pervasive access barriers at its parks, facilities, and programs. After approximately six years of contested litigation and extensive settlement … Continue reading “Gray, et. al v. Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), et al.”

California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC), et al. v. County of Sacramento

Added July 14, 2016

Sacramento International Airport serves approximately 7.9 million passengers per year yet has failed to make its facilities and services accessible to travelers with disabilities. DRA’s class action lawsuit, filed in December of 2012, alleges that the County of Sacramento discriminates against people with mobility disabilities in its operation of the newly constructed Airport Terminal B, … Continue reading “California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC), et al. v. County of Sacramento”

Bronx Independent Living Services (BILS) v. Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

Added July 8, 2016

Disability Rights Advocates filed a class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of New York against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (“MTA”) and New York City Transit Authority (“NYCTA”) on June 28, 2016 challenging their failure to install an elevator when they completed a $21.85 million rehabilitation to the Middletown Road … Continue reading “Bronx Independent Living Services (BILS) v. Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)”

Eason, et al. v. New York State Board of Elections (NYS BOE), et al.

Added June 9, 2016

Disability Rights Advocates and the American Civil Liberties Union sued the New York State Board of Elections and Department of Motor Vehicles over online voter registration that is inaccessible to people with disabilities on June 9, 2016. As a result of a settlement reached on February 25, 2019, the BOE and DMV have agreed to … Continue reading “Eason, et al. v. New York State Board of Elections (NYS BOE), et al.”

Senior and Disability Action v. San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)

Added May 12, 2016

On April 5, 2017, DRA and Legal Aid at Work filed a lawsuit against BART alleging that it discriminates against people with mobility disabilities and effectively excludes them from the regional mass transit system. For people with disabilities, problems that may be familiar annoyances to other riders can create absolute barriers to access. Problems cited … Continue reading “Senior and Disability Action v. San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)”

Netflix Settlement

Added April 14, 2016

In 2016, DRA reached a first-of-its-kind agreement with Netflix to make accessible for blind people the movies and videos offered through the Netflix video streaming and DVD rental subscriptions. Under the agreement, Netflix will provide a new technology called “audio description” for many popular titles in its streaming and disc rental libraries. Audio description technology … Continue reading “Netflix Settlement”

ACB v. Hulu LLC

Added February 26, 2016

Beginning in November 2017, Disability Rights Advocates and the Disability Law Center, Inc.represented the American Council of the Blind,Bay State Council of the Blind, and two individuals in litigation against Hulu, LLC to address the video streaming company’s failure to provide audio description and failure to maintain a website and applications that are accessible via … Continue reading “ACB v. Hulu LLC”

Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities (CID) v. Serra Yellow Cab

Added February 24, 2016

A lawsuit filed on February 24, 2016 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California alleges that Serra Yellow Cab (“Serra”) violates federal and state law by charging wheelchair users up to four times more than the standard fare because they require accessible taxis.  Serra, a for-profit transportation company based in Daly … Continue reading “Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities (CID) v. Serra Yellow Cab”

Kaiser Permanente Structured Negotiations

Added February 2, 2016

In 2012, DRA, the California Coun­cil of the Blind (CCB), Goldstein, Borgen, Dardarian & Ho (GBDH), and three Kaiser patients with vision disabilities entered structured negotiations with Kaiser Permanente to address health care access barriers. These barriers to services, programs, and facilities compromise the health care of people who are blind or low vision. Kaiser patients … Continue reading “Kaiser Permanente Structured Negotiations”

Audio Description in AMC Theaters

Added January 14, 2016

AMC has agreed to improve audio description service in its theaters nationwide, after several blind individuals, the California Council of the Blind, and the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired (LightHouse) brought a case against the theater chain. Audio description technology enables people who are blind or low-vision to participate in and enjoy the … Continue reading “Audio Description in AMC Theaters”

Stokes et al. v. Total Transit, Inc. (d/b/a Discount Cab)

Added December 8, 2015

Disability Rights Advocates, in partnership with the Arizona Center for Disability Law, filed this suit in November 2015, alleging that Total Transit Inc., doing business as Discount Cab, violates federal and state law by charging wheelchair users in Arizona a $10.00 fee per trip in addition to their regular fare because they require accessible taxis. … Continue reading “Stokes et al. v. Total Transit, Inc. (d/b/a Discount Cab)”

Access to Health Care in New York City

Added December 2, 2015

Do you have a disability? Do you face barriers at hospitals or clinics? Exam rooms too small? Waiting rooms are too crowded with furniture? Exam tables too high? Examined while still in your wheelchair? MRI machines and mammograms inaccessible? No accessible weight scales? No ASL interpreters? No information in Braille or large print? Staff does … Continue reading “Access to Health Care in New York City”

G.F. et al. v. Contra Costa County et al.

Added May 19, 2015

Disability Rights Advocates in partnership with Public Counsel filed this lawsuit because Contra Costa County Juvenile Hall had a policy and practice of locking young people with disabilities in solitary confinement for up to 23 hours a day and depriving them of education. In a video, parents of young people held at Juvenile Hall say … Continue reading “G.F. et al. v. Contra Costa County et al.”

Bronx Independent Living Services (BILS), et al. v. Union Community Health Center (UCHC), et al.

Added May 9, 2015

In September 2016, Disability Rights Advocates announced a settlement of its federal class-action lawsuit on behalf of Bronx Independent Living Services (“BILS”) and three individuals with disabilities in the Bronx, alleging that the Union Community Health Center (“UCHC”) and St. Barnabas Hospital discriminate against patients with disabilities. Specifically, the suit had alleged that the UCHC … Continue reading “Bronx Independent Living Services (BILS), et al. v. Union Community Health Center (UCHC), et al.”

Jantz, et al. v. Barnhart

Added March 24, 2015

Disabled employees of the Social Security Administration (SSA) challenged SSA’s discriminatory practice of limited job promotions and other career advancement opportunities for people with disabilities. On August 25, 2010, the EEOC Office of Federal Operations affirmed the October 8, 2008 decision of the Administrative Judge to certify the case as a class action.  SSA filed … Continue reading “Jantz, et al. v. Barnhart”

Phillips, et al. v. City of New York, et al.

Added March 18, 2015

James Phillips and Daniel Carione filed this lawsuit in 2011 to challenge their termination from the New York City Police Department under a policy that discriminates against officers with hearing aids. Both individuals had exemplary service records – and both sustained hearing loss while performing their duties as police officers. Yet, the NYPD terminated their … Continue reading “Phillips, et al. v. City of New York, et al.”

United Spinal Association et al. v. Beth Israel Medical Center et al.

Added August 14, 2013

In October 2017, Disability Rights Advocates and Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP, on behalf of United Spinal Association, Inc. and four individuals with mobility, vision, and hearing disabilities, settled a federal class action lawsuit against Beth Israel Medical Center, St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, and Continuum Health Partners.  The hospitals are … Continue reading “United Spinal Association et al. v. Beth Israel Medical Center et al.”

Legal Services for Prisoners with Children (LSPC) et al. v. Ahern et al.

Added November 20, 2012

In 2012, DRA filed a lawsuit on behalf of Legal Services for Prisoners with Children (LSPC) and taxpayers Barbara Michel and Laura Magnani. The lawsuit alleged that Santa Rita Jail failed to provide for basic needs of people with disabilities by forcing people with mobility disabilities to live in inaccessible housing units that lacked basic … Continue reading “Legal Services for Prisoners with Children (LSPC) et al. v. Ahern et al.”

A.S.K. v. Oregon

Added September 21, 2012

As a result of a lawsuit filed by Disability Rights Advocates (DRA), Oregon undertook extensive steps to modify its high stakes testing system to ensure that the tests do not discriminate against students with learning disabilities. The settlement is based on the findings of an expert panel that was convened by the parties to examine … Continue reading “A.S.K. v. Oregon”

Breimhorst v. ETS

Added September 21, 2012

This case received major national attention as it challenged the practice of “flagging” test scores for students with disabilities who ask for accommodations. Flagging is the practice by which administrators of standardized tests place notations on the score reports of people with disabilities who take the exams with accommodations for their disabilities. Since its implementation … Continue reading “Breimhorst v. ETS”

Noon v. Alaska

Added September 21, 2012

DRA represented a class of all students in Alaska with learning disabilities who were required to take the Alaska High School Graduation Qualifying Examination (HSGQE). The parties reached a comprehensive settlement agreement on Monday, August 2, 2004. Among other critical new access features to the testing program, the settlement included a broad expansion of the … Continue reading “Noon v. Alaska”

Gustafson v. U.C. Berkeley

Added September 21, 2012

DRA reached a class action settlement with the University of California, Berkeley that is resulting in comprehensive access improvements to this leading national University. The Plaintiffs are a class of all students with mobility and/or vision disabilities at U.C. Berkeley. Under the settlement, U.C. Berkeley has been removing thousands of access barriers throughout its facilities. … Continue reading “Gustafson v. U.C. Berkeley”

Mitchum v. Santa Barbara School District

Added September 21, 2012

DRA reached a class action settlement with the Santa Barbara School District in improved access to the District’s High School. DRA represented several students with mobility disabilities who had been subjected to discriminatory and dangerous conditions at this high school. One of the students, Liana Mitchum was struck three times by cars on her way … Continue reading “Mitchum v. Santa Barbara School District”

Spieler v. Mt. Diablo Unified School District

Added September 21, 2012

The Spieler v. Mt. Diablo Consent Decree negotiated in 2000, represents the most sweeping school access settlement to date under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Consent Decree created equal access to school buildings, educational programs, and social programs. Mt. Diablo School District has committed $20 million over ten years to ensure equal access for … Continue reading “Spieler v. Mt. Diablo Unified School District”

Hayward Unified School District Structured Negotiations

Added September 21, 2012

The Hayward Unified School District has entered into a comprehensive agreement with nonprofit law firms Disability Rights Advocates and Disability Rights California (formerly Protection & Advocacy, Inc.) and several parents to expand its voter approved District-wide modernization and new building efforts into making all its schools accessible to students with disabilities. The agreement was negotiated … Continue reading “Hayward Unified School District Structured Negotiations”

Bates v. UPS

Added September 21, 2012

After 10 years of hard fought litigation, including an appeal to the Ninth Circuit, DRA and Co-counsel Schneider Wallace Cottrell Brayton Konecky LLP reached a settlement with UPS on the remaining issue in this class action case. The settlement resolves the question of whether UPS may use the Department of Transportation hearing standard as a … Continue reading “Bates v. UPS”

Richard v. U-haul

Added September 21, 2012

In 1998, DRA settled a class action lawsuit with U-Haul, whereby U-Haul agreed to: Make significant modifications to its vehicle rental, retail, and storage facilities to bring those facilities into compliance with ADA regulations Provide accessible information to customers with disabilities regarding access and other disability-related issues Make best reasonable efforts to provide removable hand … Continue reading “Richard v. U-haul”

Macy’s Cases

Added September 21, 2012

In one of the first cases under the ADA concerning access to business to go to trial, DRA prevailed on behalf of a class of all persons with mobility disabilities who were denied access to Macy’s flagship store at Union Square in San Francisco. Subsequently, in Camalo v. Macy’s, a global settlement was reached resolving … Continue reading “Macy’s Cases”

PADD v. Equity Residential

Added September 21, 2012

In September of 2005, a settlement was reached to improve access for soldiers and their family members with disabilities to housing and access at Fort Lewis in Washington, the West Coast headquarters of the U.S. Army. DRA, Stritmatter Kessler Whelan Withey & Coluccio, Brancart & Brancart, and Trial Lawyers for Public Justice represented the plaintiffs … Continue reading “PADD v. Equity Residential”

Deaf Counseling, Advocacy and Referral Agency (DCARA), et al. v. San Francisco Airport (SFO)

Added September 21, 2012

In 2005, DRA reached a settlement with San Francisco Airport (SFO) that resulted in the installation of accessibility features such as visual paging, improved access to TTYs, improved signage, and numerous other features to make travel throughout the airport accessible for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. DRA represented the Deaf Counseling, Advocacy … Continue reading “Deaf Counseling, Advocacy and Referral Agency (DCARA), et al. v. San Francisco Airport (SFO)”

Celano v. Marriott

Added September 21, 2012

In 2008, the Court ordered Marriott International, Inc. to provide accessible golf carts at all of its golf facilities nationwide. Accessible golf carts, also known as single-rider carts, are used by individuals with mobility impairments. The carts are operated with hand controls and have seats that swivel to get the golfer into a hitting position. … Continue reading “Celano v. Marriott”

Farrell v. Allen

Added September 21, 2012

In 2004, the California Youth Authority (CYA), the state’s juvenile prison system, agreed to a major overhaul of the entire CYA system to address the inhumane and illegal conditions of confinement which affect young inmates in the CYA system. The case was brought under state law to stop the CYA from perpetuating illegal conditions within … Continue reading “Farrell v. Allen”

WRAP v. Newsom

Added September 21, 2012

DRA represented the Western Regional Advocacy Project and the Coalition on Homelessness in this lawsuit on behalf of people with psychiatric and mobility disabilities who experienced barriers in San Francisco’s homeless shelter system. DRA reached a settlement with the City that was approved by the court in August of 2010. During the course of the … Continue reading “WRAP v. Newsom”

United Spinal Association v. N.Y. Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

Added September 21, 2012

In July of 2011, DRA reached a settlement with the N.Y. Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) that resulted in the installation of an elevator at the Dyckman Street subway station. DRA represented the United Spinal Association, whose members live with physical disabilities due to spinal cord injuries and disorders, in this lawsuit against the MTA. The … Continue reading “United Spinal Association v. N.Y. Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)”

Barden v. Sacramento

Added September 21, 2012

This case set a nationwide precedent requiring cities and other public entities to make all public sidewalks accessible to people with mobility and vision disabilities. The court ruled that public entities must address barriers such as missing or unsafe curb cuts throughout the public sidewalk system, as well as barriers that block access along the … Continue reading “Barden v. Sacramento”

Tucker v. CA State Parks

Added September 21, 2012

In 2005, DRA reached a landmark statewide class action settlement with the California State Park System. Under the settlement, the state park agency agreed to improve access to its system of over 250 different parks through comprehensive barrier removal. The improvements include making a reasonable portion of the trail system accessible for people in wheelchairs, … Continue reading “Tucker v. CA State Parks”

National Federation of the Blind (NFB), et al. v. Law School Admissions Council (LSAC)

Added September 21, 2012

The Law School Admission Council’s (LSAC) website is the gateway for aspiring law students to apply to law schools and to register for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Yet, LSAC operated a website that was not accessible to blind law school applicants who use screen reader software. To challenge LSAC’s inaccessible website, DRA and … Continue reading “National Federation of the Blind (NFB), et al. v. Law School Admissions Council (LSAC)”

Enyart v. National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE)

Added September 21, 2012

In January of 2011, the Ninth Circuit Court granted Stephanie Enyart, a blind law school graduate, the right to use assistive technology to take the Multistate Bar Exam and the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam. The court issued a landmark ruling that established that testing entities are required to provide accommodations that best ensure exams measure … Continue reading “Enyart v. National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE)”

UC Berkeley Accommodations Initiative Structured Negotiations

Added September 14, 2012

Nationwide, college students with print disabilities – individuals who can­not read standard print because of vision, physical, developmental, or learning disabilities –  face major barriers and disparities to academic success because colleges and universities fail to provide these students with text books, course readers, and library research materials in alternative formats they can read. These … Continue reading “UC Berkeley Accommodations Initiative Structured Negotiations”

Taxis For All Campaign v. Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC)

Added September 14, 2012

In January 2011, DRA and Sheppard Mullin filed a class action lawsuit against New York City and the New York Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) on behalf of a coalition of people with disabilities, including Taxis For All Campaign, United Spinal Association, 504 Democratic Club, and Disabled In Action, challenging the TLC’s dismal lack of … Continue reading “Taxis For All Campaign v. Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC)”

City and County of San Francisco Structured Negotiations

Added September 14, 2012

Mr. Goodwin is a person of short stature who relies on a customized wheelchair for mobility. In 2011, Mr. Goodwin was travelling on a San Francisco sidewalk to catch a bus home when he fell from his wheelchair. He sustained injuries that required medical attention, and was transported by ambulance to a hospital in San … Continue reading “City and County of San Francisco Structured Negotiations”

Californians for Disability Rights, Inc. (CDR), et al. v. California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)

Added September 14, 2012

In 2010, DRA; Jose Allen, partner at Skadden, Arps, Meagher & Flom LLP; and AARP Foundation Litigation (AFL) achieved a landmark $1.1 billion dollar settlement with Caltrans, the largest architectural access settlement to date for people with disabilities. Under the settlement, Caltrans agreed to improve the surface conditions of thousands of miles of sidewalks and … Continue reading “Californians for Disability Rights, Inc. (CDR), et al. v. California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)”

AMC Theaters Structured Negotiations

Added September 14, 2012

Leveraging our success in ALDA v. Cinemark, we achieved a similar result with AMC Theaters on behalf of the Association of Late Deafened Adults (ALDA). In 2011, on the heels of our settlement with Cinemark, AMC agreed to offer closed captioning for 127 screens in California by mid-2012, and projects that number to grow to … Continue reading “AMC Theaters Structured Negotiations”

Veterans for Common Sense (VCS), et al. v. Shinseki, et al.

Added September 14, 2012

In January 2013, the Supreme Court declined to hear the case. Despite this disappointment, the landmark case raised national awareness of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ serious deficiencies and delays in providing veterans with the mental health care treatment and benefit determination claims they deserve and need. The case furthered awareness of veterans’ mental health … Continue reading “Veterans for Common Sense (VCS), et al. v. Shinseki, et al.”

National Federation of the Blind (NFB), et al. v. Target Corporation

Added September 7, 2012

As technology plays a central role in many facets of our lives from communication to purchasing goods, enrolling in classes and seeking employment, it is important now more than ever to bridge the digital divide between technology and people with disabilities. In 2006, DRA represented the National Federation of the Blind and three blind plaintiffs … Continue reading “National Federation of the Blind (NFB), et al. v. Target Corporation”

Smith, et al. v. Hotels.com

Added September 7, 2012

In 2009, DRA reached a landmark settlement with two major travel websites – Hotels.com and Expedia.com. Under the settlement, the major online travel service companies agreed to improve reservation services for travelers with disabilities. Both companies added new features to their travel websites to improve the ability for people with disabilities to search and reserve … Continue reading “Smith, et al. v. Hotels.com”

Communities Actively Living Independent and Free (CALIF), et al. v. City of Los Angeles

Added September 6, 2012

The City and County of Los Angeles have experienced multiple natural disasters ranging from earthquakes, fires, and landslides; the County of L.A. has declared a state of emergency over twenty-four times since 1980. L.A.’s vulnerability to disasters highlighted the critical need to ensure that the City and County of L.A. include the safety of people … Continue reading “Communities Actively Living Independent and Free (CALIF), et al. v. City of Los Angeles”

Amazon.com Structured Negotiations

Added September 6, 2012

DRA reached a settlement through structured negotiations with Amazon.com on behalf of the National Federation of the Blind. Under the settlement, Amazon.com agreed to make its website, as well as several affiliated websites, fully accessible to people with disabilities who use assistive technology to read and navigate internet websites. This was a monumental achievement for … Continue reading “Amazon.com Structured Negotiations”

Chabner v. United of Omaha

Added August 28, 2012

DRA prevailed after many years of hard-fought litigation against United of Omaha Life Insurance Company. This case has positively altered the landscape of insurance coverage for people with disabilities in California. A U.S. District Court judge found that United discriminated against Howard Chabner, a man with muscular dystrophy, by charging him a life insurance premium … Continue reading “Chabner v. United of Omaha”

Thompson v. Sutter Health

Added August 28, 2012

The Sutter Health network of hospitals, medical foundations and other health care service providers has agreed to improve health care access for its patients with mobility, vision, hearing, and speech disabilities. Under the terms of the Agreement reached in 2008, Sutter has been removing architectural barriers, acquiring and installing accessible medical equipment, and reviewing and … Continue reading “Thompson v. Sutter Health”

Sterling VisionCare

Added August 28, 2012

DRA’s client – an individual who used a wheelchair – was denied service at a Sterling VisionCare Center because he was unable to walk from his wheelchair to the examination chair. To avoid litigation, Sterling VisionCare committed to ensure that accessible examination chairs are made available to patrons with disabilities at all of its facilities, … Continue reading “Sterling VisionCare”

Massachusetts General Hospital Structured Negotiations

Added August 28, 2012

In 2008, DRA and Co-counsel Greater Boston Legal Services reached a settlement through structured negotiations with Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston. The hospitals agreed to make the following improvements to health care access for patients with mobility, vision, and hearing disabilities: Remove physical and programmatic barriers Provide accessible medical equipment … Continue reading “Massachusetts General Hospital Structured Negotiations”

Metzler v. Kaiser

Added August 7, 2012

In March of 2001, DRA and Co-counsel John Burris reached a landmark settlement with Kaiser Permanente, to improve access to health care for people with disabilities. The settlement plan has been used as a model for the health care industry on how to deliver medical care for men, women, and children with  mobility, vision, and … Continue reading “Metzler v. Kaiser”

Guzman v. Wells Fargo

Added July 16, 2012

It is essential that all consumers have the ability to conduct business matters with companies by phone. In order for deaf and hard of hearing consumers to communicate with companies, they must use a relay calling service that involves an interpreter who facilitates communication between the consumer and business representative. In 2009, DRA investigated complaints … Continue reading “Guzman v. Wells Fargo”

Lane Bryant Structured Negotiations

Added July 16, 2012

In 2012, DRA, The California Council of the Blind (CCB), and the Law Offices of Jay Koslofsky reached a cooperative agreement with Lane Bryant. As a result of the agreement, Lane Bryant has added tactile keypads to its point-of-sale devices at all of its 83 locations in California. This accessibility feature will ensure that blind … Continue reading “Lane Bryant Structured Negotiations”

Association of Late-Deafened Adults (ALDA), et al. v. Cinemark

Added July 16, 2012

Going to the movies is a central part of American life, which the deaf and hard of hearing community has been largely excluded from up until DRA’s recent settlement with Cinemark Theaters, the third largest movie chain in the country. In November of 2010, DRA and Co-counsel John Waldo filed a class action lawsuit on … Continue reading “Association of Late-Deafened Adults (ALDA), et al. v. Cinemark”

Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled (BCID), et al. v. Mayor Bloomberg, et al.

Added May 11, 2012

This federal class action lawsuit was filed in September of 2011. More than a decade after 9/11, New Yorkers with disabilities continued to face disproportionate risks of catastrophic harm and death during disasters – as Hurricanes Irene had shown, and as Sandy soon demonstrated. The class of 900,000 New York residents with disabilities included people with vision, … Continue reading “Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled (BCID), et al. v. Mayor Bloomberg, et al.”

California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC), et al. v. City of Oakland, et al.

Added May 11, 2012

On January 21, 2010, in a settlement announced by DRA and the City of Oakland, Oakland agreed to adopt an emergency plan which includes the needs of people with all types of disabilities during emergency disasters. Oakland is particularly vulnerable to emergency disasters. Since 1983, it has experienced eight Presidential-declared disasters, including the 1989 Loma … Continue reading “California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC), et al. v. City of Oakland, et al.”

Guckenberger v Boston University

Added March 17, 1997

In 1996, DRA filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of 10 students with learning disabilities challenging Boston University’s new policy for evaluating accommodation requests of students with learning disabilities as unreasonable, overly-burdensome, and in violation of the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and Massachusetts state law. Plaintiffs challenged three aspects of Boston University’s policy: BU … Continue reading “Guckenberger v Boston University”