A visually-impaired individual has taken legal action against a restaurant chain, alleging discrimination due to an inaccessible website. Nicole Davis filed a class-action complaint on November 22, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Kitchen Kings, Inc. The lawsuit claims that the company's website is not accessible to blind and visually-impaired users, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Nicole Davis, who is legally blind and relies on screen-reading software to navigate online content, represents herself and others similarly affected in this lawsuit. According to Davis's complaint, Kitchen Kings' website, Volarerestaurant.com, fails to provide equal access to its services for visually impaired individuals. The plaintiff highlights significant barriers on the site that prevent her from completing transactions independently. These barriers include lack of alternative text for images, inaccessible forms and menus, and navigation issues that require mouse use rather than keyboard shortcuts compatible with screen readers.
The lawsuit underscores the importance of web accessibility for blind individuals who often face mobility challenges and rely heavily on online services. Despite existing technology solutions like alternative text and accessible forms widely used by other businesses, Kitchen Kings allegedly maintains an exclusively visual interface that excludes blind customers from accessing their goods and services equally.
Davis's complaint argues that Kitchen Kings' failure to make its website accessible constitutes discrimination under both state and federal law. The ADA mandates eliminating discrimination against individuals with disabilities by ensuring full integration and equal opportunity in public accommodations. The plaintiff seeks a permanent injunction requiring Kitchen Kings to modify its website policies and practices to comply with ADA standards. Additionally, she demands compensatory damages for the unlawful discrimination experienced by herself and other class members.
Representing Nicole Davis is attorney Paul Camarena from Chicago. The case has been assigned Case No.: 1:24-cv-12060 in front of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.