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Plaintiff alleges major online retailer's website violates ADA due to accessibility barriers

COOK COUNTY RECORD

Monday, March 24, 2025

Plaintiff alleges major online retailer's website violates ADA due to accessibility barriers

Federal Court
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U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois | Official website

In a groundbreaking legal battle, a visually-impaired individual has filed a class action lawsuit against a major online retailer for failing to make its website accessible to blind and visually-impaired users. Leah Walker initiated the complaint on March 11, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Evolucion Innovations, Inc., alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Leah Walker, who is legally blind and relies on screen-reading software to navigate websites, claims that Evolucion Innovations' website, Evo.com, presents significant access barriers that prevent her and others with similar disabilities from enjoying equal access to the goods and services offered by the company. According to Walker's complaint, these barriers include inaccurate heading hierarchies, inaccessible drop-down menus, and inadequate alternative text for images—features essential for screen readers used by visually impaired individuals. The plaintiff argues that such obstacles not only deny her full participation in online commerce but also violate Title III of the ADA.

Walker recounts her personal experience attempting to purchase ski pants from Evo.com. Despite her efforts using screen-reading technology like JAWS, she was unable to complete her transaction due to improperly labeled interactive elements and other accessibility issues on the site. "The lack of accessible features makes it impossible for blind users like me to independently shop online," Walker stated in her complaint. She further emphasizes that this exclusion from digital marketplaces places an undue burden on blind individuals who already face mobility challenges when shopping in physical stores.

The lawsuit seeks a permanent injunction requiring Evolucion Innovations to modify its website policies and practices to ensure compliance with ADA standards. Additionally, Walker demands compensatory damages for unlawful discrimination suffered by herself and other class members. The case highlights ongoing concerns about digital accessibility as technology becomes increasingly integral to daily life.

Represented by attorney David B. Reyes of Equal Access Law Group PLLC, Walker is determined to hold Evolucion Innovations accountable for their alleged negligence in maintaining an inclusive online environment. The case ID is 1:25-cv-2520.

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