Blind Internet User Sues Restoration Hardware Over Website Accessibility

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Restoration Hardware, Inc. is on the receiving end of a proposed class action lawsuit filed by a blind man who claims the defendant’s website discriminates against blind users by denying them full and equal access to its goods and services. According to the suit, www.restorationhardware.com allows users to accomplish the following:

• find information about the stores’ locations and hours of operation;
• purchase furniture, lighting, textiles, bathware, décor, outdoor and garden, glassware, tableware, and other home essentials;
• learn about the items being sold on the website and in the stores (e.g., dimensions and necessary accessories);
• learn design recommendations;
• purchase gift cards;
• learn about free shipping;
• learn about sale and seasonal items;
• learn about in-store events;
• learn about privacy policies and safety recalls;
• complete credit card complications;
• design furniture;
• purchase items for in-store pickup;
• check the status of online orders; and
• learn about the company’s refund policies.

The suit alleges that the site contains various access barriers, including a lack of alternative text and empty/redundant links, that hinder blind users from being able to fully navigate the content using screen-reading technology. Moreover, the complaint claims these obstacles have “deterred” the plaintiff from visiting the defendant’s physical stores, as he is unable to find the locations and hours online.