US sues Lyft over alleged discrimination against disabled passengers

The US Justice Department has sued Lyft, alleging that the company and its drivers routinely refuse rides to passengers with disabilities. The case matters because the department says this conduct breaches the Americans with Disabilities Act, and that Lyft has not done enough to prevent discrimination despite an earlier settlement.

The complaint concerns passengers who use stowable wheelchairs or travel with service animals, and alleges they have also been charged cancellation fees after being turned away. It cites failures to adapt policies, including not allowing some passengers with mobility needs to sit in the front seat. The DOJ is seeking $53 million in damages for complainants and an order requiring driver training; Lyft denies the allegations and says drivers who breach its accommodation policies face serious consequences.