Carlton Knowles v. Elite Source Products, Inc.

Case Summary

According to the complaint, Carlton Knowles, a visually-impaired individual, is suing Elite Source Products, Inc. for failing to make its website, www.herbalrootssupplements.com, accessible to blind users. The complaint alleges that the website contains numerous barriers that prevent visually-impaired individuals from accessing its products and services, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Knowles claims that he encountered multiple access issues while trying to purchase products, which led to frustration and humiliation. He seeks a permanent injunction to require the defendant to improve website accessibility and compensatory damages for the alleged discrimination.

Causes of Action

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

Key Allegations

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

Requested Relief

• Permanent injunction requiring Defendant to make its Website accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• Compensatory damages for violations of civil rights under New York State Human Rights Law and New York City Human Rights Law.
• Reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs.

Proposed Class

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.

Jurisdiction & Venue

The Court has subject-matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1331 and 42 U.S.C. § 12181, as Plaintiff’s claims arise under Title III of the ADA.