Denied by an App? What to Do When Mobile Accessibility Fails

For most people, mobile apps are simply convenient. For individuals with disabilities, they are essential. Everyday tasks, from ordering medication to managing money or attending virtual appointments, often depend entirely on app access.

So what happens when an app instantly shuts you out? What if the “Continue” button won’t read, the login screen is silent, or the checkout never detects your input?

These moments aren’t just frustrating; they can be legally significant. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), companies must ensure their digital services are accessible to people with disabilities. When they fail, you have the right to take action.

Key Takeaways

• You have the right to accessible mobile apps under the ADA.
• Blocked access, screen reader failures, and incomplete transactions may be legal violations.
• A mobile accessibility attorney investigates, documents, and pursues claims.
• Legal action often leads to better accessibility for everyone.
• You never need to face mobile discrimination alone.

When an App Blocks Access, It Impacts More Than Convenience

An inaccessible mobile app can interrupt essential parts of life.
Some examples include:

• You can’t refill a prescription because the audio labels don’t read.
• You can’t access your bank account because the login fields aren’t announced.
• You can’t schedule a medical appointment because the date selector doesn’t respond.
• You can’t request a rideshare because the pickup location field disappears.
• You can’t complete a job application because the upload button isn't accessible.
• You can’t purchase a product because the checkout page freezes when using a screen reader.
  
  

These examples all share one thing: the task is possible for nondisabled users, but impossible for users relying on assistive technology.

That difference is what turns a technical bug into a potential ADA violation.

How to Tell If a Mobile App Violation May Be Illegal

Not every glitch is discriminatory, but certain patterns strongly indicate a violation of the ADA or state laws like the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD).

Here are the signs that an inaccessibility issue may be actionable:

1. You cannot complete a basic function (log in, checkout, submit). If the app blocks essential features, that’s a red flag.

2. Screen readers don’t announce important elements. Buttons, links, fields, or alerts that go silent point to improper coding.

3. The app behaves differently when accessibility tools are active. Crashes, freezes, or navigation loops are common issues.

4. Alternative methods are not available. If there is no accessible backup pathway, that strengthens your claim.

5. You experience emotional, practical, or financial harm. Distress, missed deadlines, failed purchases, or loss of independence all matter legally.

If any of these apply, an accessibility attorney for a mobile app can help determine whether your rights were violated.

Why Mobile Accessibility Problems Are Legally Serious

Mobile apps provide services that the public relies on every day.
When an app excludes disabled users, the impact can be immediate and deeply harmful:

• Missed medical results
• Failed bill payments
• Lost transportation
• Blocked job opportunities
• Financial loss
• Emotional distress
  

The ADA protects the right to equal access, meaning companies must prevent these barriers before they harm users.

What to Do Immediately After Encountering an Inaccessible App

Before you contact an attorney, a few simple steps can help strengthen your case:

1. Document the Barrier

Try to capture:

• screenshots
• screen recordings
• written notes of what happened

Even a short note like “Screen reader read nothing on login page at 3:14 PM” can help.

2. Record What Assistive Technology You Used

3. Write Down Why the Task Was Important

This helps show the impact, such as:

• “I couldn’t confirm my doctor appointment.”
• “I was unable to finish a time-sensitive form.”

4. Do NOT try to fix the issue yourself

Users often blame themselves, but the fault is almost always in the app’s code. Once you have these notes, it’s time to involve a professional.

How a Mobile Accessibility Attorney Helps You Pursue a Claim

A mobile app accessibility attorney brings technical skill, legal knowledge, and experience with disability barriers, allowing them to take clear, strategic action.

Here’s what they do:

1. Evaluate Your Experience for Legal Merit

The attorney listens to your story and determines whether the barrier meets ADA standards for discrimination.

2. Conduct or Order Accessibility Testing

Professionals recreate your experience using assistive technology.  They may uncover multiple barriers you didn’t see, which strengthen your case.

3. Gather Evidence and Establish Violations

This includes:

• WCAG audit results
• screen reader tests
• video recordings
• expert reports
• accessibility impact statements

This shows not only that the app failed, but why the failure is illegal.

4. Prepare a Legal Demand for Accessibility Corrections

The attorney sends a detailed demand requiring the company to:

• fix the app
• compensate you
• Implement accessibility monitoring
• adopt compliance practices

This step alone often results in resolution.

5. File a Lawsuit If the Company Refuses to Comply

If the company ignores or dismisses the issue, your attorney may file a mobile app accessibility lawsuit.

This can result in:

• accessibility remediation
• financial remedies
• policy reforms
• independent monitoring
• long-term compliance obligations

Your attorney’s goal is to remedy the harm, enforce your rights, and create lasting improvements.

Real-World Scenarios Where a Claim May Be Strong

Your claim may be particularly strong if an inaccessible app prevented you from:

• paying bills
• accessing health information
• signing legal forms
• managing banking or funds
• scheduling transportation
• buying necessities
• accessing educational content
• applying for jobs
• verifying identity

Apps offering essential services carry higher legal responsibility, meaning stronger claims.

Accessibility Isn’t Optional; It’s Your Legal Right

When a mobile app prevents you from completing important tasks, that barrier is not your burden; it is the app developer’s legal obligation. A mobile accessibility attorney can help you understand your rights, pursue compensation, and push companies to treat disabled users with the respect and accessibility the law requires.

If an app denied you equal access, reach out to our legal team, and we’re here to fight for your rights and make digital spaces accessible for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I sue even if the app offers a website?

Yes. Each platform must be independently accessible. An inaccessible app can still be an ADA violation, even if a website exists.

2. What if the company updates the app later?

You may still have a valid claim for the harm already caused. Remediation does not cancel past discrimination.

3. Do I need proof before contacting a lawyer?

No. Even without documentation, your attorney can test and confirm the barriers.

4. What compensation am I entitled to?

Depending on the laws involved, you may be eligible for:

• monetary compensation
• emotional distress damages
• accessibility corrections
• attorney’s fees
  
  

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