In a groundbreaking legal battle, a visually-impaired individual has filed a class action lawsuit against a prominent retail company for failing to make its website accessible to blind and visually-impaired users. Andre Battle initiated the complaint on February 5, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, targeting Dillon Davis, Inc. The case highlights significant accessibility barriers that prevent individuals with visual impairments from independently navigating and making purchases on Dillon Davis's online platform, Wovenshop.com.
Andre Battle, who is legally blind and requires screen-reading software to access digital content, alleges that Dillon Davis's website is not designed or maintained to be accessible for individuals like him. According to the complaint, Wovenshop.com contains numerous access barriers that violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates equal access to public accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Battle asserts that these barriers deny him and others similarly situated full participation in the digital marketplace—a vital aspect of modern living.
The lawsuit details several specific issues encountered by Battle while attempting to use Wovenshop.com. These include inadequate alternative text for images, improper landmark structures, repetitive link texts without context, and navigation challenges due to reliance on mouse-only interactions. Such design flaws render the website unusable for those relying on screen readers and other assistive technologies. "Plaintiff was disoriented when automatic pop-up windows appeared," the complaint states, emphasizing how these obstacles hinder independent online shopping experiences.
Battle seeks a permanent injunction requiring Dillon Davis to implement necessary changes ensuring their website complies with ADA standards. This includes adopting established guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 to eliminate existing barriers and facilitate equal access for blind consumers. Additionally, Battle demands compensatory damages for himself and other class members affected by this alleged discrimination.
The legal action underscores broader implications about digital accessibility in an era where online transactions are increasingly integral to daily life. By challenging Dillon Davis's practices, Battle aims not only to rectify his personal grievances but also to set a precedent encouraging businesses nationwide to prioritize inclusive web design.
Representing Andre Battle is attorney Uri Horowitz from Flushing, NY. The case is assigned Case No.: 1:25-cv-1220 under Judge [Name Not Provided]. As proceedings unfold, this lawsuit could significantly impact how companies approach web accessibility compliance moving forward.