Uber is facing a lawsuit from the federal government, which alleges that the ride-hailing company — the largest in the U.S. — discriminates against passengers with disabilities, the Associated Press reports.
Uber drivers, the Department of Justice claims, routinely refuse to serve individuals with disabilities, including those with service dogs.
The lawsuit alleges that Uber drivers have charged illegal cleaning fees for service animal shedding and imposed cancellation fees after denying service. It also alleges that drivers have refused to allow disabled individuals to sit in the front seat so they can use the back seat for mobility devices.
Uber, in a statement Friday, said that all of its drivers must acknowledge and agree to comply with its service animal and accessibility policies.
The company said it prohibits drivers from denying service to someone with a service animal and it requires drivers to provide transportation to a person with a disability as long as they get into the vehicle on their own.
Uber also said it prohibits drivers from refusing to assist with the stowing of devices like walkers, crutches and folding wheelchairs.
The company said it established a hotline in 2023 for customers who were denied a ride because of a service animal. Uber said when it confirms that a violation has occurred, it takes action, including deactivating a driver’s account.
The DOJ is seeking $125 million for disabled individuals who have previously submitted complaints to it or to Uber.
