In a significant legal move, a visually impaired individual has filed a lawsuit against a major restaurant chain, alleging that its website is inaccessible to blind and visually impaired users. This case highlights the ongoing struggle for equal access to digital content in an increasingly online world. The complaint was filed by Chelette Dewees on April 29, 2025, in the Superior Court of California for the County of Santa Clara against Yard House USA, Inc.
The plaintiff, Chelette Dewees, claims that Yard House USA's website is not compatible with screen-reading software used by visually impaired individuals. This incompatibility allegedly prevents her and others from accessing the full range of services offered by the restaurant chain online. Dewees, who is legally blind, attempted to use the website on April 21, 2025, to purchase a steak dinner but encountered numerous barriers that denied her equal access. According to the complaint, these barriers include inadequate text descriptions for images and interactive elements that are not navigable using keyboard commands—a necessity for those relying on screen readers.
Dewees argues that Yard House USA's failure to provide an accessible website violates several laws designed to protect individuals with disabilities. These include Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates that public accommodations must be accessible to people with disabilities; California's Unruh Civil Rights Act; and the California Disabled Persons Act. The lawsuit asserts that Yard House USA has constructed and maintained its website in an inaccessible form despite being aware of these issues.
The plaintiff seeks a permanent injunction requiring Yard House USA to make its website fully accessible by implementing guidelines such as those outlined in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2. Additionally, Dewees requests statutory damages under California law and demands that Yard House USA undergo regular accessibility audits and training for employees involved in web development.
Representing Dewees is Andrew J. Gramajo from AJG Law Group PC., while no specific attorneys are listed for Yard House USA at this stage. The case ID is 25CV464604.