Scott Johnson, a disabled individual and advocate for disability rights, has filed a lawsuit against two California-based companies for failing to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Unruh Civil Rights Act. The complaint was lodged on November 22, 2024, in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, targeting Park & Lincoln LLC and JC Tools & Accessories LLC.
Johnson's case stems from his visit to JC Tools & Accessories in San Jose on February 7, 2023. During this visit, he encountered significant barriers that hindered his access due to his reliance on a wheelchair. Johnson alleges that these barriers are not minor or technical but represent actual obstacles that cause discomfort and potential injury to individuals with disabilities. "Despite offering parking spaces to members of the public," Johnson notes in his complaint, "JC Tools & Accessories failed to provide a single van-accessible parking space." This lack of compliance with ADA standards is compounded by non-compliant sales counters cluttered with items that reduced accessibility.
The plaintiff asserts that these conditions violate both federal and state laws designed to protect the rights of disabled individuals. According to Johnson's filing, the defendants have failed in their ongoing obligation to assess and remove barriers where feasible and implement accessible alternatives when full compliance isn't possible. He argues that these failures result from either policy negligence or systematic oversight.
Johnson seeks various forms of relief from the court. He demands permanent injunctive relief compelling the defendants to remove all existing architectural barriers within 90 days of judgment or another date deemed just by the court. This includes installing compliant accessible parking spaces and modifying sales counters for better accessibility. Additionally, he requests biennial Certified Access Specialist inspections and annual employee training on ADA compliance as part of ensuring future adherence to accessibility standards.
Representing Scott Johnson is Aaina Duggal from Seabock Price APC law firm based in Pasadena, California. The case is presided over by Judge L. Ayala under Case Number 24CV452467.