U.S. Department of Justice Prosecution Uber discriminated against disability on Thursday… again. The lawsuit claims the company and its drivers “usually refuse to serve people with disabilities.” It specifically convened passengers who served animals or wheelchairs to handle it. The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Northern California.
“While its services are important to people with disabilities, Uber denies the full enjoyment of their services in several critical ways,” the lawsuit reads. It also accused Uber drivers of insulting and demeaning people with disabilities and raising inappropriate questions.
In a statement sent to Engadget, Uber questioned the government’s claims. “Riders using guide dogs or other auxiliary equipment should get Uber’s experience of safety, respect and enthusiasm – go all out,” the company wrote. “We have a clear zero-tolerance policy for confirmed services and we fundamentally disagree with the Justice Department’s allegations.”
Uber says all drivers must acknowledge and agree to their services to animals policy Before they start driving. “When we confirm a violation, we take decisive actions, including permanent account deactivation,” the company wrote. Uber notes it Community Guidelines Discrimination is prohibited. It also added that it sent videos of service animal education to all American drivers last year and explained its crucial role.
Earlier this year, Uber added a feature that allows passengers to remind drivers They will travel with the service animals. The Justice Department complaint said the company only introduced the feature after notifying the investigation. “But, despite this, Uber is discriminating against riders who use service animals,” the application reads.
The Justice Department is seeking jury trials, injunctions and monetary compensation. It also hopes to charge Uber with civil fines for violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.
If it all sounds familiar, there is good reason. Ministry of Justice Sue Uber in 2021 More than similar claims. The lawsuit focuses on the “waiting time” fees sent to passengers, who require more time due to their disability. The parties resolved the lawsuit in 2022. Agree to pay at least $2.2 million to passengers Disabled persons are charged with waiting costs. The company is also facing String of Passenger lawsuit Exceed Serving people with disabilities.
