Chicago Disability-Rights Group Sues Uber For Discrimination

By Stephen Gossett in News on Oct 13, 2016 7:24PM

Photo via Tripp on Flickr

A Chicago-based disability-rights organization is suing Uber for what they claim is violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act. The lawsuit, filed by Access Living of Metro Chicago and three other complainants, alleges the rideshare service is not usable by people with motorized wheelchairs and “other mobility devices” and therefore discriminates against the disabled.

“Transportation access has always been a central issue of civil rights for people with disabilities,” said Steven P. Blonder, an attorney for the complainant said in a statement. “Transportation is key to the independence of people with disabilities, providing a link to education, employment and social activities. As a growing player in our transportation system, Uber is responsible for delivering its part of that link.”

Access Living claims that Uber has failed to deliver on promises to provide riders who use motorized wheelchairs with service on par with UberX.
Furthermore, between September 201 and August 2015, Uber administered only14 rides (from a total of millions) to “motorized wheelchair users who require wheelchair-accessible vehicles,” Access Living claims. The UberWAV service, which provides wheelchair-accessible vehicles for riders—is routinely shows no drivers available when service is requested, plaintiffs argue.

Some City Council members—such as Ald. Anthony Beale and Ald. Ed Burke (who, reports show, have received funds from taxi lobbies)—fought earlier this year for more robust regulations against rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, including stronger disability service. But much watered-down ordinance ultimately passed, in June, after rideshare companies threatened to pull out service from Chicago.

Update:
An Uber spokesperson told Chicagoist in a statement:
“We take this issue seriously and are committed to increasing mobility and freedom for all riders and drivers, including those members of our communities who are disabled. There is always more to be done and we will continue working hard to expand access to affordable, reliable transportation options for all Chicagoans."

Cab Drivers United/AFSCME also released a statement on Thursday about the lawsuit.

"While Uber has promised the city and groups like Access Living that wheelchair accessible rides are coming - the disabled community has waited two years and seen no progress," union member Bayo Aladesuru said in the statement. "Despite Uber officials promising to provide equitable services, according to data provided by the city, Uber does not have a single wheelchair accessible vehicle on the road."

“Equitable transportation options are a big part of ensuring people with disabilities have their independence, and I’m proud to help provide that service," Aladesuru added.