James Evans v. Okuma Fishing Tackle Corporation

Case Summary

According to the complaint, James Evans, a visually impaired individual, is suing Okuma Fishing Tackle Corporation for failing to make their website, Okumafishingusa.com, accessible to blind users. The plaintiff alleges that the website contains significant barriers that prevent visually impaired individuals from independently navigating and completing purchases. Key issues include the lack of proper alt-text for images, inadequate labeling of form fields, and the requirement to use a mouse for transactions. The plaintiff seeks a permanent injunction to require the defendant to make the website accessible and compensatory damages for the discrimination faced. The case is filed under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Causes of Action

• Violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Declaratory Relief

Key Allegations

• Defendant's website is not accessible to visually impaired individuals.
• Plaintiff encountered multiple accessibility issues while attempting to use the website.
• Defendant has failed to take necessary steps to make the website accessible.

Requested Relief

• A preliminary and permanent injunction to prohibit Defendant from violating the ADA.
• An order requiring Defendant to make the website fully compliant with the ADA.
• A declaration that the website discriminates against visually impaired individuals.

Proposed Class

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

Jurisdiction & Venue

This Court has subject-matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1331 and 42 U.S.C. § 12182; venue is proper under 28 U.S.C. §1391(b)(1) and (2).