The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Uber Technologies, Inc., alleging discrimination against passengers with disabilities. The lawsuit, announced on Friday, seeks $125 million in damages for individuals who have faced discrimination while using the ride-hailing service.

The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, claims that Uber drivers routinely refuse to serve individuals with disabilities, including those accompanied by service dogs. The lawsuit states that these actions violate Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

According to the DOJ, Uber drivers have charged illegal cleaning fees for service animal shedding and imposed cancellation fees after denying service. The lawsuit also alleges that drivers have prevented disabled individuals from sitting in the front seat, which is often necessary for those using mobility devices in the back seat. As a result, many disabled passengers have missed appointments, experienced significant delays, and have been left stranded in poor weather conditions.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division emphasized the impact of these practices. “For too long, blind riders have suffered repeated ride denials by Uber because they are traveling with a service dog,” Dhillon said. “This lawsuit seeks to end this persistent discrimination and allow riders with disabilities to use Uber.”

In response to the allegations, Uber stated that all drivers must comply with its service animal and accessibility policies. The company insists that it prohibits drivers from denying service to passengers with service animals and requires them to assist individuals with disabilities, provided they can enter the vehicle independently. Uber also stated that it does not allow drivers to refuse assistance with stowing mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs.

“Riders who use guide dogs or other assistive devices deserve a safe, respectful and welcoming experience on Uber — full stop,” the company said in a statement. Uber has expressed disagreement with the lawsuit's claims and noted that it established a hotline in 2023 for customers denied rides due to service animals. The company stated that it takes action against drivers found in violation of its policies, including deactivating their accounts.

The DOJ is not only seeking monetary damages but also a court order requiring Uber to update its policies to comply with the ADA and to properly train its staff and drivers. The case highlights ongoing concerns about accessibility in the ride-hailing industry, particularly for individuals with disabilities.