How a web accessibility checker can help your business avoid legal risk
Digital compliance is no longer limited to data privacy policies or cybersecurity. In recent years, website accessibility has moved into the spotlight and with it, a wave of lawsuits, demand letters, and growing public scrutiny.
Many companies are now realizing that failing to make their websites accessible to people with disabilities isn’t just bad for user experience. It’s a legal and reputational risk. One of the easiest ways to get ahead of this issue is by using a web accessibility checker.
Accessibility and the law: A growing concern for businesses
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990, but its interpretation has expanded with the rise of digital services. Courts in the U.S. have consistently ruled that websites fall under the same non-discrimination requirements as physical spaces. That means your website must be accessible to users with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.
Fines, legal settlements, and the public relations damage from non-compliance can hit hard, especially for businesses in finance, healthcare, or government services.
What does a web accessibility checker do?
A web accessibility checker is a tool that scans your website for issues that may prevent users with disabilities from navigating or using your site effectively. These issues might include:
- Missing image alt tags
- Poor color contrast
- Unlabeled form fields
- Inaccessible buttons or links
- Improper heading structure
- Lack of keyboard navigation support
After running a scan, the checker provides a report that outlines where your website fails to meet accessibility standards, typically based on the WCAG 2.2 guidelines.
Why it matters for your business
Using a checker is not just about avoiding legal problems, it’s about running a smarter business.
- Risk mitigation
Identifying issues before they result in complaints or legal action puts you ahead of the curve. - Reputation management
Showing a proactive approach to inclusion builds trust with users and partners alike. - Operational efficiency
Automated scans provide clear, actionable feedback that can reduce development time and cut down on costly last-minute fixes. - Market expansion
Improving accessibility opens your website to a broader audience, including the millions of users who rely on assistive technologies to navigate online spaces.
A smarter way to stay compliant
One of the most efficient ways to identify accessibility issues is by using a browser-based web accessibility checker. These tools scan webpages for violations, providing clear explanations and actionable suggestions to help teams stay aligned with accessibility standards.
Among the top options is the tool developed by EqualWeb, designed for quick implementation and ease of use. It fits neatly into quality assurance workflows and helps development teams address problems before they grow into legal or usability risks.
Final thoughts
Ignoring accessibility isn’t just a technical oversight – it’s a strategic mistake. As more customers, regulators, and stakeholders expect inclusive digital experiences, accessibility is becoming a pillar of responsible business operations.
A web accessibility checker helps you take control of your compliance posture, build trust, and serve your full audience more effectively. For any business with an online presence, it’s a tool worth using.