Scott Johnson, a disability rights advocate, has filed a lawsuit against Lucy's Mexican Grill for alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Unruh Civil Rights Act. The complaint was filed on April 10, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. Johnson claims that the restaurant failed to provide accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities, thereby denying him equal access to its services.
According to the complaint, Scott Johnson visited Lucy’s Mexican Grill in December 2024 and encountered several barriers that hindered his access as a wheelchair user. The plaintiff asserts that the restaurant did not comply with ADA standards regarding dining tables and restroom facilities. Specifically, Johnson alleges that the indoor dining tables lacked adequate knee and toe clearance for wheelchair users, while outdoor seating options were inaccessible due to immovable benches. Additionally, he claims that the restroom door hardware was non-compliant as it required pinching and twisting to operate—a significant barrier for individuals with limited hand mobility.
Johnson argues that these accessibility issues are not only violations of federal law but also contravene California's Unruh Civil Rights Act, which mandates full and equal accommodations for persons with disabilities. He emphasizes that these barriers have persisted despite being easily removable at minimal cost. "Accessible tables are readily purchased from a variety of vendors in accessible configurations for less than $500," states Johnson in his complaint.
The plaintiff seeks multiple forms of relief from the court. He requests a permanent injunction requiring Lucy's Mexican Grill to remove all existing architectural barriers within 90 days or another reasonable timeframe determined by the court. This includes installing compliant dining surfaces both indoors and outdoors and ensuring fully accessible restroom facilities. Should full compliance not be readily achievable, Johnson asks for alternative methods to provide greater accessibility than currently exists.
In addition to injunctive relief, Johnson seeks actual damages under the Unruh Civil Rights Act along with treble damages or statutory minimum damages for each occasion he was denied full access. He also requests reasonable attorney fees and litigation expenses.
Representing Scott Johnson in this case is Amanda Seabock from Seabock Price APC, located in Pasadena, California. The case is being presided over by judges at the Superior Court of California in Santa Clara County under Case Number 29CV463118.