The conversations on how specifically disabled passengers should be treated due to their condition continue, but it seems that ridesharing apps cannot master this craft.
The United States government has done suing Lyft for its alleged discrimination against its disabled passengers.
It is interesting because Lyft actually has official terms and conditions on disabled passengers, and how they should be treated.
In their official page on their official website dedicated to disabled passengers, titled “Lyft’s commitment to accessibility,” the leading ridesharing app indicated, “At Lyft, we’re passionate about creating a platform that everyone can use… If you can fold and stow your mobility device in the trunk or backseat of a vehicle, you can take any kind of Lyft ride… If you want a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) that can fit your fixed-frame wheelchair, we’re happy to help. We offer access to WAV rides through a ride type called ‘Wheelchair’… If you want assistance during pickups and drop-offs, there are Lyft drivers who are happy to help!.. Our app is fully compatible with both VoiceOver for iOS and Google TalkBack…”
Aside from its policies on anti-discrimination, foldable wheelchairs, and service animals, it is also quite vocal about drivers who are deaf or with other disabilities, and passengers who are deaf or with other disabilities.
But, it could be a driver case-to-case basis.
However, the Department of Justice of the USA has successfully filed a case against Lyft for its alleged discrimination against disabled passengers, alleging that Lyft is denying services to these people.
Filed in the Northern District of California, the lawsuit alleges that Lyft drivers have denied services to passengers with disabilities and are charging them with cancellation fees, since these drivers needed to reject them. What the!
In the lawsuit, the United States government stated it received thousands of complaints each year, accusing Lyft of violating the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act.
“Lyft has discriminated against individuals with disabilities, in violation of Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act… through its policies and practices of denying or providing unequal services to individuals with disabilities, including individuals with service animals or individuals who use stowable wheelchairs or mobility devices,” the lawsuit told Ridesharingforum.com.
Though there is no other option for Lyft but to answer to the lawsuit, or respond to it, it has released their official statement, saying it is disagreeing with the allegations, and they stand with their policies protecting riders with disabilities.
“Lyft fosters a diverse and welcoming community for all types of people. Each person is independent and unique. Make sure you ask how you can help before making any assumptions. Always listen carefully to any instructions or requests…” the ridesharing app stated on its official page for passengers with disabilities. For more ridesharing news, keep it locked right here on RSF. ‘Til then!