Is Your Website ADA Compliant? Here’s Why It Matters (and How to Avoid Costly Lawsuits)
ADA compliance isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a vital step toward creating an inclusive online experience for everyone. And let’s be honest, no one wants to end up as the next headline in a Google search for “business sued for non-compliance.” Unfortunately, many businesses overlook the importance of accessibility, which can lead to serious consequences. For example, a resort in the Lake of the Ozarks region was recently sued for failing to meet ADA compliance standards on their website. That’s right, even your vacation getaway can’t escape the long arm of the law if their website isn’t up to snuff.
This serves as a wake-up call for businesses, especially those in the Kansas City area, to address website accessibility before it becomes a costly problem—and before we end up writing a blog about you next.
What is ADA Compliance for Websites?
ADA compliance ensures that your website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. This means providing tools and features that allow people with visual, auditory, or motor impairments to navigate your site effectively. Examples include screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and text resizing options.
Think of it like this: Your website should be as easy to navigate as a grocery store aisle. No one wants to hunt through six shelves of cereal to find their go-to brand, and the same goes for your website. If users can’t find what they need, they’ll leave—and they might just take legal action on their way out.
The Costs of Non-Compliance
The Lake of the Ozarks case is just one example of how failing to prioritize accessibility can hurt your bottom line. Businesses found in violation of ADA guidelines can face fines starting at $55,000 for a first offense—and the costs only climb from there. Add legal fees and potential settlements, and it’s clear that non-compliance isn’t worth the risk.
And let’s be real: With the way the world is, as soon as there’s enough buzz around this law and the ease of slapping lawsuits on businesses, these cases will become more common than ever. The last thing you want is your business name trending on social media because you didn’t think a wheelchair-accessible website was important. Spoiler alert: It is.
But it’s not just about avoiding lawsuits. An accessible website opens your business to a broader audience, creating a better user experience for everyone—and who doesn’t love a win-win?
How to Ensure Your Website is ADA Compliant
The good news? Achieving ADA compliance is easier than you might think, especially with the right tools and expertise. At Agency Ten10, we specialize in helping businesses create accessible websites that meet all ADA standards. Our affordable annual compliance service includes:
Implementation of tools like our wheelchair widget, which you can see live on the left hand side of our own site. (Seriously, click it! It’s like a Swiss Army knife for accessibility. You’ll be amazed at all the ways users can adjust our website to suit their needs.)
Ongoing monitoring and updates to ensure continued compliance.
The ADA compliance widget is a game-changer, allowing users to customize their browsing experience without the need for extensive coding. Users can optimize their online viewing experience with options like:
Adjusting font size and color contrast.
Enabling text-to-speech functionality.
Simplifying navigation for users with motor impairments.
By offering these tools, you not only avoid legal risks but also show your commitment to inclusivity—a value that resonates with today’s consumers (and makes your brand look like a total rockstar).
Why Work with Agency Ten10?
We know that ADA compliance can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. At Agency Ten10, we make the process straightforward and stress-free—because who has time for legal drama when you’re trying to run a business?
From implementation to ongoing support, we’re here to ensure your website is accessible, user-friendly, and legally compliant. Plus, our services are affordable, so you can sleep easy knowing you’re covered without breaking the bank.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your business, expand your audience, and avoid becoming the next cautionary tale. Contact Agency Ten10 today and let us help you make your website ADA compliant.
