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The US Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Uber, alleging the ride-hailing company and its drivers systematically discriminated against passengers with disabilities.
The complaint, lodged in federal court in San Francisco, claims Uber drivers have repeatedly denied rides to people with service animals or collapsible wheelchairs, and in some cases insulted or demeaned passengers with disabilities. The government argues that these practices violate the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Allegations of refusals, fees, and mistreatment
According to the complaint, drivers often charged riders unlawful cancellation fees when service was denied or levied cleaning fees for service animals. The department also cited cases where drivers refused reasonable accommodations, such as allowing mobility-impaired passengers to sit in the front seat.
“Uber’s discriminatory conduct has caused significant economic, emotional, and physical harm to individuals with disabilities,” the department said. The lawsuit seeks a court order to prevent further violations, require policy and training improvements, impose monetary damages, and levy a civil fine.
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The filing highlights the experiences of 17 individuals. Among them is JE, a seven-year-old amputee from the Bronx, whose wheelchair allegedly prompted a driver to refuse service after asking: “Is that coming?” Another case involves Jason Ludwig, a Gulf War veteran whose service dog led a driver to deny him a ride to the Norfolk airport in Virginia. The refusal caused him to miss his flight, forcing him to drive 16 hours back to Massachusetts.
A third passenger, Jeff Clark from Mount Laurel, New Jersey, allegedly had four separate drivers in Philadelphia cancel his rides within 17 minutes after learning he was blind and used a guide dog.
Uber disputes allegations but pledges action
Uber said it disagreed with the DOJ’s claims but emphasized that accessibility remains a priority. In a statement, the company said passengers using guide dogs or other assistance “deserve a safe, respectful, and welcoming experience on Uber - full stop.”
The firm added that it enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for confirmed denials of service.
The outcome of the case could set a significant precedent for ride-hailing platforms, as the DOJ pushes for stronger compliance with federal disability law.
