If you’re a small business owner, you’re already juggling a million things—marketing, payroll, customer service… the list goes on. But there’s one critical thing that often gets overlooked: making your website accessible.

Why does it matter? Because failing to make your website accessible can lead to costly ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) lawsuits. Yes, even small businesses are being targeted. The good news? You can avoid becoming a statistic with just a few smart steps.

What Is ADA Compliance, Anyway?

In a nutshell, ADA compliance means ensuring that your business—both physically and digitally—is accessible to people with disabilities. That includes your website, online store, PDFs, videos, and any other digital content.

The ADA doesn’t explicitly mention websites (it was passed in 1990, after all), but recent court rulings have made it clear: websites are considered places of public accommodation, and they must be accessible.

Why Are Small Businesses at Risk?

Many small businesses assume they’re too small to be targeted. But the truth is, plaintiffs and law firms are increasingly filing accessibility lawsuits against small companies—especially those with online stores or service-based websites. These lawsuits often cost thousands of dollars to resolve and can damage your reputation.

5 Simple Ways to Avoid an ADA Lawsuit

1. Use an Accessibility Scanner

Start by running an accessibility audit using a trusted tool or plugin. These scanners will flag issues like missing alt text, low color contrast, and navigation problems. Some tools even organize issues by priority so you can fix the biggest problems first.

2. Add Alt Text to Images

Alt text helps screen readers describe images to visually impaired users. If you’re uploading product photos, banners, or infographics, always add descriptive alt text.

3. Make Sure Your Site Works Without a Mouse

Many users rely on keyboard navigation. Try using your site without a mouse—can you tab through menus, links, and forms easily? If not, it’s time for some fixes.

4. Use Readable Fonts and Good Color Contrast

Fancy fonts and low-contrast colors might look trendy, but they can be a nightmare for users with vision impairments. Stick with clear fonts and check that text stands out from the background.

5. Include Accessibility in Your Web Design Process

If you’re launching a new site or working with a developer, make accessibility part of the conversation from day one. It’s easier (and cheaper) to build an accessible site than to retrofit it later.

Bonus Tip: Partner with an Accessibility Expert

If this all sounds overwhelming, you don’t have to go it alone. A qualified digital accessibility like Accessivly can help you audit your website, fix issues, and even provide documentation to prove your commitment to accessibility.

Final Thoughts

ADA lawsuits are avoidable, and accessibility isn’t just a legal checkbox—it’s good business. By making your website usable for everyone, you’re opening the door to more customers, building trust, and doing the right thing.

Need help getting started? Contact us for an accessibility audit or a quick consultation. We make ADA compliance easy and affordable for small businesses like yours.