The DOJ sues Uber (again) for allegedly discriminating against people with disabilities

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against Uber, alleging that the company and its drivers "routinely refuse to serve individuals with disabilities." The lawsuit claims that Uber denies people with disabilities full and equal enjoyment of its services, including instances where passengers use service animals or stowable wheelchairs. The DOJ is seeking a jury trial, injunctive relief, monetary damages, and a civil fine for violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Uber has contested the government's claims, stating that it has a clear zero-tolerance policy for confirmed service denials and has taken steps to educate its drivers on the importance of serving passengers with service animals. However, the DOJ alleges that Uber's efforts have been insufficient, and the company has continued to discriminate against riders who use service animals. This is not the first time the DOJ has sued Uber over disability discrimination claims. In 2021, the DOJ sued Uber over "wait time" fees charged to passengers who, due to their disabilities, needed more time. The two sides settled that lawsuit in 2022, with Uber agreeing to pay at least $2.2 million to passengers with disabilities who were charged waiting fees.