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The Importance of Website Accessibility for Your Business

By Higher Information Group on October 23, 2024 | Marketing Solutions

In today's digital world, website accessibility is more than just a technical best practice—it's a legal requirement that businesses of all sizes must prioritize. Ensuring your website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, is not only the right thing to do but also essential for protecting your business from potential lawsuits.

Why Accessibility Matters

Web accessibility allows individuals with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments to navigate and interact with your website. According to a recent report, over 1.5 billion people have disabilities. Simple features like alternative text for images, keyboard navigation, and proper color contrast can make a huge difference. By implementing accessibility best practices, you create an inclusive online experience that benefits all users—not just those with disabilities.

Legal Risks of Inaccessibility

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other regulations require businesses to make their websites accessible.

In 2018, the Department of Justice clarified that websites are considered places of public accommodation and must comply with ADA Title III. In 2022, the DOJ reaffirmed it and recommended WCAG 2.1 AA as the best practice.

Over the past few years, the number of web accessibility lawsuits has surged – a 300% increase since 2018! Companies that fail to meet these standards face not only the cost of redesigning their websites but also potential financial penalties and legal fees. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, no one is immune to these lawsuits.

How to Protect Your Business

  1. Audit Your Website: Regularly assess your site for accessibility issues.
  2. Follow WCAG Standards: Ensure your website complies with WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines—the most commonly referenced standard in legal cases.
  3. Stay Up to Date: As websites evolve, regularly update and monitor your accessibility features.

Taking proactive steps to meet accessibility standards is not just about avoiding lawsuits—it’s about demonstrating your commitment to inclusivity and providing a better experience for all visitors.

Ready to assess your website’s accessibility? Click here to get your free website accessibility audit!

At Higher Information Group, we partner with accessiBe, an AI-powered solution that has revolutionized the accessibility industry by making web accessibility effortless, automatic, immediate, affordable, and, most importantly, compliant with WCAG 2.1, ADA, Section 508, and other worldwide legislation. Ready to make your website compliant? Reach out today!

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