Washington Benavides Moran v. Ryse Usa, Inc.

Case Summary

According to the complaint, plaintiff WASHINGTON BENAVIDES MORAN alleges that RYSE USA, INC. has failed to make its website, www.helloryse.com, accessible to blind and visually-impaired individuals, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The plaintiff claims that he encountered multiple barriers while trying to access information about products such as smart shades and blinds, which prevented him from making purchases. The complaint seeks injunctive relief to require the defendant to improve website accessibility and also requests compensatory damages for the alleged discrimination. The plaintiff asserts that the website's inaccessibility has caused frustration and humiliation, contributing to a sense of isolation.

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 persons.
• 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.
• 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

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, and supplemental jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1367.