Arantza Castro v. BJ’S Wholesale Club, Inc.

Case Summary

According to the complaint, Arantza Castro, a visually impaired individual, is suing BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. for violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Castro alleges that the company's website, https://www.bjs.com/, is inaccessible due to various barriers that prevent her from effectively using it with screen reader software. These barriers include unlabeled graphics and improperly formatted navigation elements, which hinder her ability to obtain necessary information for purchasing products. Castro seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to ensure the website is accessible and compliant with ADA standards, as well as damages for the alleged trespass of software on her computer without consent. The complaint emphasizes the need for equal access to online services for individuals with disabilities.

Causes of Action

• Violation of the ADA
• Trespass

Key Allegations

• Plaintiff is visually impaired and requires assistive technologies to access the website.
• Defendant's website contains access barriers such as unlabeled graphics and inaccessible navigation elements.
• Plaintiff was unable to effectively determine store hours, confirm product availability, or complete transactions due to these barriers.

Requested Relief

• A declaration that Defendant’s website is in violation of the ADA
• An order requiring Defendant to update its website to remove barriers for individuals with visual disabilities
• An award of reasonable attorney’s fees and costs

Jurisdiction & Venue

Southern District of Florida, Miami-Dade Division