Most people believe lightning never strikes twice. Unfortunately, lightning typically hits the same place, especially on tall objects. Similarly there are many myths associated with ADA website compliance. In this blog, we will debunk the seven popular myths associated with it.
Popular Myths Associated With ADA Website Compliance
1. ADA Compliance Only Applies to Physical Spaces
Fact: Many believe that ADA regulations are only relevant to physical spaces like buildings and public facilities. The ADA, though, also covers digital environments.
People with impairments should be able to access websites, applications, and other digital tools. This guarantees equal access to knowledge and services, independent of physical ability.
2. It is Optional for Small Businesses
Fact: Some small business owners think ADA compliance is only necessary for big businesses. However, every business, regardless of size, is obligated under the ADA.
Any public service business, regardless of size, has to make sure its website is reachable. Ensuring that the site is navigable for computer users and that screen readers can move around it helps with part of this.
3. Making a Website ADA Compliant is Expensive
Fact: While it might seem like making a website accessible would be costly, the reality is quite different. Many ADA compliance measures are inexpensive or even free to implement.
There are numerous tools and resources available that can help businesses make their websites accessible without breaking the bank. Furthermore, the penalty of non-compliance—including possible lawsuits—can much exceed the cost of making a website accessible.
4. Compliance with the ADA only helps blind people
Fact: Following the ADA benefits many people, not just the blind or visually impaired. This group includes people who have trouble listening, moving, thinking, and other problems.
For those who have difficulties hearing, for instance, adding subtitles to movies can assist; using the computer to browse can help those with trouble moving their bodies. Ensuring that everyone may use your website increases the number of individuals you will attract.
5. It is a One-Time Fix
Fact: ADA compliance isn’t something you can set and forget. It requires ongoing effort and maintenance. Websites are dynamic, with new content being added regularly. This means continuous monitoring and updating are necessary to maintain compliance. Regular audits, user feedback, and staying updated with the latest accessibility standards are essential for ensuring ongoing compliance.
Myth 6: Accessibility Ruins Website Aesthetics
Fact: Some fear that making their websites accessible will ruin the design or aesthetics. This is a misidentified belief. ADA-compliant websites can be aesthetically pleasing as well as functionally stable.
Actually, well-crafted, easily navigable websites usually enhance everyone’s general user experience. Including accessibility from the beginning will help you produce an aesthetically pleasing and easily navigable website.
Myth 7: Applies only for the US organizations
Fact: ADA stands for Americans with Disabilities Act, it is overlooked by organizations outside the US.
Organizations operating outside the US may overlook the ADA. However, the ADA may indirectly impact organizations as many countries, such as Australia and Canada, have adopted similar laws that support digital accessibility.
Consequences of Non-compliance of ADA
Let us jump into the consequences of not being compliant with ADA. We have divided it into three categories for your convenience
Legal Impact
If your website is not ADA-compliant, it becomes a beacon for lawsuits. If you are found guilty, you will end up paying at least $55,000 and can reach up to $75,000 for the first violation and subsequent violations may escalate up to double the amount for each infraction. These are just the legal penalties, usually civil lawsuits cost even more and even the government is not exempted from it. For example, the city of Los Angeles agreed for a legal settlement of a staggering $1.3 Billion for not meeting ADA requirements.
Reputational Impact
The advent of the internet made it possible for people to have their opinions heard by the organizations that have wronged them. The latest generation values social responsibilities and aligns with brands aligning with their values. Organizations that refuse to make websites accessible for people with disabilities will face challenges in the future.
Operational Impact
Along with fixing legal and reputational issues, the organizations should also work on fixing the accessibility issues. This requires organizations to hire accessibility experts, train their staff, remediation of issues, etc. which will require time and money to the organization.
Conclusion
Hopefully, our blog helped you to understand the various myths surrounding ADA website compliance. Hence, now you can jump into remediating accessibility issues or taking steps to ensure your website is ADA-compliant. ADA has other benefits such as boosting SEO, tax benefits, etc. which ultimately enhances the user experience. Lastly, accessibility has a significant impact on people’s lives as it builds trust and trust wins loyalty of your customers.
