The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is suing Lyft over alleged ride refusals involving passengers with service animals or mobility devices, saying the practices caused fees, delays and added travel costs.
The department filed the lawsuit Monday, Nov. 9, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. It alleges Lyft violated Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
According to the complaint, drivers turned away people with service animals and riders whose wheelchairs could be stowed in a vehicle. It also alleges Lyft failed to adjust its policies for some passengers with mobility disabilities, including those who needed to sit in the front seat.
Some riders denied service were also charged cancellation fees, the complaint says. It describes delays and additional travel expenses for affected passengers.
DOJ said it is seeking $53 million for people it says Lyft discriminated against who also complained to Lyft or the department. It wants a civil penalty and court orders requiring policy changes and training for staff and drivers. EconoTimes previously reported the department’s damages request.
The complaint further alleges Lyft inadequately trained drivers and customer service representatives, failed to adequately monitor drivers and provided insufficient remedies to riders who complained. The department’s announcement also cited a similar case against Uber. The allegations against Lyft remain for the court to decide.
