Carlton Knowles v. Hight Enterprises, Ltd.

Case Summary

According to the complaint, Carlton Knowles, a visually-impaired individual, is suing Hight Enterprises, Ltd. for failing to make its website, www.mcguckin.com, accessible to blind users. The plaintiff alleges that he encountered numerous barriers while trying to access the website, which prevented him from obtaining information and making purchases. The complaint cites violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), New York State Human Rights Law, and New York City Human Rights Law. Knowles seeks a permanent injunction requiring the defendant to improve website accessibility and compensatory damages for the alleged discrimination.

Causes of Action

• Violations of the ADA, 42 U.S.C. § 12181 et seq.
• 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

• A preliminary and permanent injunction to prohibit Defendant from violating the ADA and related laws.
• Compensatory damages for violations of civil rights under New York State Human Rights Law and GBL § 349.
• 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 and related state laws.