Carlton Knowles v. Biltwell Custom Motorcycle Corp.

Summary

According to the complaint, Carlton Knowles, a visually-impaired individual, is suing Biltwell Custom Motorcycle Corp. for failing to make its website, www.biltwellinc.com, accessible to blind users. The plaintiff alleges that he encountered numerous barriers while trying to access information about motorcycle parts and gear, which violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Knowles seeks a permanent injunction to require the defendant to improve website accessibility and claims that the lack of compliance with accessibility standards has caused him frustration and humiliation. He also seeks compensatory damages and attorneys' fees.

About the defendant

Operates an online retail store offering motorcycle parts, gear, and apparel.

What the complaint says

The problems the plaintiff describes with the website.

• Defendant's website is not accessible to blind and visually-impaired persons.
• Plaintiff encountered multiple access barriers while attempting to use the website.
• Defendant has failed to comply with WCAG 2.0 guidelines.

Legal claims

The laws the plaintiff says the defendant broke, called causes of action.

• Violations of the ADA
• Violations of the NYSHRL
• Violations of the NYCHRL
• Violation of GBL § 349

What the plaintiff asks for

What the plaintiff wants the court to order.

• A preliminary and permanent injunction to prohibit Defendant from violating the ADA and related laws.
• A declaration that Defendant’s website discriminates against the blind.
• Compensatory damages for violations of civil rights under New York laws.
• Reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs.

Proposed class

The group of people the plaintiff asks to represent, so the case can cover them too.

All legally blind individuals in the United States who have attempted to access Defendant’s Website and as a result have been denied access to the equal enjoyment of goods and services offered by Defendant’s Website, during the relevant statutory period.